Antisemitism is Not an Opinion.

The project “Antisemitism Is Not an Opinion” is a research and educational initiative implemented by the Jewish Association Czulent in cooperation with the Autonomia Foundation, aimed at identifying and countering antisemitism within the education system in Poland. The project focused on analyzing educational content and developing tools to support teachers and educators in delivering reliable, bias-free education about the Jewish community.

Analysis of school textbooks and content on Jews in education

As part of the project, an in-depth analysis was conducted of 147 textbooks approved for school use by the Ministry of National Education (as of 2014). The study primarily covered subjects such as history, civics, cultural studies, family life education, and—to a lesser extent—Polish language and early childhood education. The analysis examined how the history, culture, and traditions of Jews in Poland were presented, identifying antisemitic content, oversimplifications, and argumentative patterns that could reinforce stereotypes.

Anti-discrimination education and countering stereotypes

The project responds to the growing interest in Jewish culture in Poland, which does not always coincide with a decline in prejudice. Despite numerous cultural and educational events, social research indicates the continued presence of antisemitic attitudes. In this context, the project addresses key questions: how to define contemporary antisemitism and how to teach about the Jewish community in a responsible way that does not reinforce stereotypes and prejudice.

Expert conference and development of recommendations

One of the key elements of the project was a nationwide expert conference titled “Antisemitism Is Not an Opinion: Jewish Themes, Antisemitic Content, and Argumentative Patterns in School Textbooks,” held on April 18, 2016. The event, organized in cooperation with the Autonomia Foundation and the Korczak Foundation, brought together 70 participants. Its aim was to present the research findings and to develop practical mechanisms for countering antisemitism in the educational environment, taking into account the role of institutions responsible for creating and approving teaching materials.

Educational materials for teachers and educators

An important outcome of the project was the development of comprehensive educational materials supporting anti-discrimination education at various levels of learning—from preschool to higher education. The prepared publications respond to the needs of teachers and trainers, offering both theoretical knowledge and practical tools for educational work.

Publications: textbooks and lesson plans

As part of the project, three key educational materials were developed:

• A handbook for educators – containing analyses of textbooks, reports on contemporary antisemitism in Poland, as well as lesson plans and workshop scenarios;
• A handbook for preschool and early primary education teachers – supporting the education of children on cultural diversity and the history of the Jewish community in an age-appropriate way;
• A workbook – complementing the teaching materials with exercises that foster creativity and support learning through active engagement.

Impact of the project and its significance for education in Poland

The project “Antisemitism Is Not an Opinion” represents an innovative approach to anti-discrimination education, combining research, expert activities, and practical teaching tools. It contributed to raising awareness of the mechanisms of antisemitism in contemporary Poland and strengthened the competencies of those working in the field of education. The project positions the Jewish Association Czulent as an expert organization engaged in the analysis of educational content and the prevention of discrimination.