“Antisemitism is the foundation of all violent extremism that threatens Western society.” That is an extremely eloquent way of explaining why antisemitism is not just an issue between Jews and antisemites. This ex-skinhead, Arno, understands the hatred of the Jewish people better than most as he used to be a central member of the club for many years. Deradicalizing is not simple, but it is possible, and Gabe Groisman does a great job interviewing him.
Most of the antisemitic sentiment that is prevalent is not based on extensive knowledge of the Jewish people, and certainly it is not based on a deep understanding of Jewish history. The haters are not necessarily stuck in a rut for all of their lives. Arno explains that hatred is an addiction and can be fought. But it is not a simple process and can often take years to teach how terrible violence is and how it is all based on people running away from their real issues.
Violent extremists certainly exist all over the world, even where there are no Jews. But the recent uptick in violent extremism across the Western world is much more connected to radical Islamic hatred of the Jewish people and the rise of Islam across the West.
This unique individual brings to light the enlightening thought that hatred is an addiction much like the addiction to drugs, alcohol, or other addictions. His journey out of the abyss of darkness into a world of teaching young and not-so-young people is truly eye-opening and inspiring. The most surprising part of his story is the TV show that actually proved to be the turning point.