Welcome to #IMTHATJEW

On Thursday October 15th, 2015, Eitan Chitayat posted the “I’m That Jew” video he created to his public Facebook page. It spread like wildfire. As of December 11, 2016 it has been viewed over 2.2 million times on Facebook and has garnered over 10 million impressions with almost 200,000 reactions, comments and shares. It has been watched over 1.5 million times on YouTube in up to 10 languages.

This kind of viral acknowledgement that touches on Jewish culture says something.

No, not about how many famous jews there are out there. It says that Jews are proud of their Jewish history. That Jewish pride is alive and kicking.

Yes – Jews are proud to be Jewish, they like being Jewish and they’re embracing a new kind of Jewish narrative. One that takes the stereotype of the Jew and turns it on its head. It’s a narrative that champions diversity, drive, work ethic and passion. One that shines a light on how Jews come from all over the world, bringing with them their differing personalities, opinions and forms of creativity, along with an unparalleled lust for life that culminates in countless beautiful contributions to the world – from Jewish humor and culture to Israeli innovation and science.

It’s a narrative that is actually a statement that, yes, Jews are beyond generalizations. We are complex and, like anyone else out there of whatever religion, creed, or background, complex is a beautiful thing.

So whatever your story, wear that Jewish badge with pride.

Because that badge is a celebration of life itself.

#IMTHATJEW