What happened
The New York Public Library hosted an event for author Benjamin Moser, who compared Israel to a 'dog shelter' and promoted his book, 'Anti-Zionism, a Jewish History.' Moser, a Pulitzer Prize winner, made the comments during a discussion with retired Columbia University history professor Rashid Khalidi at the library's main branch on September 22. The event has sparked backlash, with some critics accusing the library of giving a platform to anti-Zionist and anti-Semitic views.
Moser's comments included accusing Israel supporters of exaggerating claims of anti-Semitism and calling Zionists 'intellectual thugs.' He also claimed that the leadership of major Jewish institutions in the US have supported 'genocide' in Gaza. Khalidi, who interviewed Moser, shared similar views and the pair focused on Israel's retaliatory response in Gaza, while downplaying Hamas' terrorist attacks on October 7, 2023.
The library has defended the event, stating that it aims to host a diversity of viewpoints and cultural perspectives. A spokesperson said that the library does not endorse or police speech, but rather provides a platform for discussion and debate. However, some critics, including former Brooklyn Assemblyman Dov Hikind, have slammed the library for using taxpayer dollars to host the event, calling Moser a 'Jew hater.'
The incident has sparked a wider debate about free speech, anti-Semitism, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The New York Public Library has faced criticism and backlash, with some calling for greater accountability and balance in its programming.
