US Cultural Institutions Accused of Widespread Discrimination Against Jewish and Israeli Creators

A new study reveals extensive discrimination against Jewish and Israeli artists and creators in the United States, according to Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO of the Anti-Defamation League. Greenblatt stated that Jewish artists are being "canceled, blacklisted, and pushed out of cultural life in America." He highlighted that a review of 40 leading museums found none included Jewish identity within their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) commitments, which he characterized as antisemitism and discrimination against Israelis.

The study outlines several forms of this exclusion. Many museums with significant Jewish and Israeli collections tend to obscure their identity by integrating them into broader narratives. The literary world has seen blacklists circulating online calling for boycotts of books by Jewish and Zionist authors, and a 2024 petition signed by over 1,000 writers urged a boycott of Israeli publishing houses. Online harassment, including negative "review bombing" of books before publication, has also been reported. Literary agents have allegedly refused to represent Jewish authors, deeming them "too dangerous."

Author and photographer the author and photographer described this phenomenon as "literary antisemitism," which she said hides behind excuses, shifting standards, institutional silence, and community exclusion rather than overt symbols like swastikas.

In the performing arts, events featuring artists like Maor Pocker and Re'ev Kenner have been canceled not due to direct threats, but out of general fear of protests. Singer Noga Erez reported losing international performance opportunities privately simply for being Israeli. Comedian Judy Gold and singer Regina Spektor have also faced heckling and disruption during their performances.