A Jewish Journey of Identity and Courage

skipped a beat, just by the mention of my name. “Like I even care,” Marcus said even loader.

I wanted to scream at them to shut up. This wasn’t the first time I’d heard antisemitic remarks from my teammates. I’d seen the things they kept posting on Instagram—Marcus was always sharing these disgusting reels, expecting everyone to like them. And they did, just to stay in his good graces. Recently, he had been posting reels that mocked Jews and even tagged me to ensure I noticed. What a messed-up kid. He once shared a reel claiming that Jews are rich because we control the banks around the world. I DM’d him to say it was a lie, and he reposted my comment to his story, mocking me by saying I had to defend myself because my dad is also a thief. The next day at practice, Marcus and Jimmy shouted at everyone to lock their lockers so I wouldn’t steal their stuff. Since then, I’ve kept silent. I stay quiet when they post their reels and when they make their disgusting comments. I just hope this will eventually stop. “You not showering today, Levitt?” Jimmy asked, standing next to me in his white boxers, drying himself with a frayed towel. I took a deep breath. “I’ll shower at home,” I replied, trying to remain as calm as possible. “Don’t be shy,” Jimmy said, continuing his chatter. “We’re all men here.” I smiled. “Men don’t post dumbass reels,” I replied, then grabbed my bag and left the locker room in search of my parents, who were waiting to take me home. Fortunately, I have other friends— real friends. Simon, for example. He’s been with me since first grade and has never treated me poorly, not because I’m Jewish or for any other reason. It’s a shame he’s not on the team with me; it would make things much easier.

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