Growing up in New Paltz, a place where a mayor illegally married same-sex couples in an act of civil disobedience, I’ve always felt a deep connection to a liberal, progressive identity. With Ulster County having 40,364 registered Democrats compared to 34,471 Republicans, my home town seemed to embody the values I hold dear: open-mindedness, kindness, and a commitment to social justice. I’ve always considered myself a liberal person, but lately I’ve found myself struggling with a sense of discomfort in these circles, particularly regarding the conversation around Israel. This feeling has left me nervous and even reluctant to express my views, a hesitation rooted in a profound fear of being misunderstood, or worse, hexed.

This tension is deeply personal, forged by the stories of my family.

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