Purim Celebrations Highlight Joy and the Fight Against Antisemitism

The Jewish holiday of Purim, marking the triumph over oppression, begins on the evening of March 2, 2024, and presents an opportunity to reflect on the ongoing fight against antisemitism. This year, the festivities will continue through March 3 in Israel, where the holiday holds deep cultural significance.

Purim occurs in the month of Adar, a time traditionally associated with joy and celebration. The events celebrated during Purim are rooted in the biblical story of Queen Esther, who courageously saved her people from a decree of extermination. According to historical accounts, the Persian Empire of the 4th century BCE extended over 127 lands, with Jewish people among its subjects. The narrative recounts how King Ahasuerus banished his wife, Queen Vashti, and sought a new queen. Esther, a Jewish woman, rose to prominence but hid her identity from the king.

The antagonist of this story, Haman, gained power and sought to annihilate the Jewish population. Esther’s cousin, Mordechai, defied Haman’s edicts, leading to a series of events that ultimately resulted in Haman’s downfall. The success of Esther and Mordechai is celebrated as a victory against hatred, and their story is commemorated by reading the Book of Esther, or megillah, during Purim.

During Purim, participants express their disdain for Haman by making noise whenever his name is mentioned, symbolizing the communal effort to combat hatred. This practice highlights the importance of standing against antisemitism and serves as a reminder of the potential consequences of unchecked prejudice.

For many, including Sue Winthrop, a longtime resident of Longmont, Purim evokes cherished memories of community celebrations. Winthrop recalls the joy of Purim carnivals, where participants dress as story characters, and indulge in traditional foods such as Hamantaschen, three-cornered pastries resembling Haman’s hat. Yet, for Winthrop, the holiday also serves as a poignant reminder of the broader societal issues facing the Jewish community and beyond.

Winthrop expresses concern over contemporary issues such as deportation tactics employed by the United States government, particularly under the influence of individuals like Stephen Miller. Despite his Jewish heritage, Miller is viewed by Winthrop as embodying a form of cruelty that contradicts the values she was raised to uphold. She emphasizes that the actions taken by those in power can often echo the historical oppression faced by marginalized groups.

In light of these challenges, Winthrop calls for collective action to address injustices. She encourages peaceful resistance through protests, writing, and civic engagement, asserting that it is essential for individuals to unite against hatred and discrimination in all forms.

As Purim approaches, the themes of courage and resilience resonate strongly. The celebration not only honors the past but also underscores the ongoing need for vigilance against antisemitism and all forms of hatred. In this spirit, Purim serves as a reminder that joy can emerge from struggle, and that the fight for justice requires the courage of modern-day “Esthers.”