Rabbi Hayim Leiter’s reflective piece explores the intersection of his passion for surfing and his Jewish identity in the context of rising antisemitism globally. He recalls a transformative trip to Portugal where he connected with fellow surfers and felt a sense of community, highlighting the importance of openly sharing his identity.
However, the current geopolitical climate—specifically the surge in antisemitism following the October 7th attacks—has forced him to reconsider this openness. He describes a shift in mindset where he now feels compelled to hide his Jewishness while traveling, a stark contrast to the enriching experiences he enjoyed before. He shares personal anecdotes of encountering anti-Israel sentiment during family vacations, particularly in Greece, emphasizing how these experiences have shaped a growing fear among Jews about revealing their identity abroad.
Ultimately, Rabbi Leiter laments the loss of freedom to express his identity and the need for caution, reflecting on the broader implications of this societal shift for Jewish travelers today.
