Think the rising tide of antisemitism doesn’t affect you? Think again. It’s not just a threat to minorities; it’s a threat to American democracy itself. This hate-fueled movement, intertwined with anti-democratic ideologies, could ultimately strip us all of our freedoms.

In 1939, thousands gathered in New York City for a Nazi rally, a chilling display of pro-Nazi sentiment on American soil. While such overt displays are less common today, antisemitism is surging again. Hate crimes are increasing, fueled by extremist groups and the rampant spread of online hate speech. This isn’t just a problem for the Jewish community; it’s a threat to the very fabric of American democracy.

Antisemitism rarely exists in isolation. It often goes hand in hand with other forms of bigotry and, most alarmingly, with anti-democratic beliefs. Groups like neo-Nazis and white nationalists promote both, weaving conspiracy theories and hate-filled narratives to undermine trust in democratic institutions. They exploit the freedoms of speech and assembly to spread their message, aiming to replace our democracy with an authoritarian regime that caters to their hateful ideology.

This threat is further exacerbated by the growing partisanship in Congress and the Supreme Court. This polarization risks eroding the checks and balances that are fundamental to our democracy, potentially enabling the passage of laws that restrict voting rights, favor certain groups over others, or even chip away at the core tenets of our Constitution. A highly partisan Supreme Court could uphold decisions that gradually dismantle democratic norms and protections.

While a complete descent into totalitarianism may seem unlikely in the near future, the United States could see a creeping erosion of freedoms with policies that discriminate against minorities and erode the rights we often take for granted. This erosion of rights is the totalitarianism that harms everyone, regardless of their allegiances. Even those who support or tolerate anti-democratic movements should be concerned. In the long run, they too will lose their freedoms, their voices silenced, their rights curtailed and their lives subject to the whims of an oppressive regime. We must remain vigilant. Support organizations that protect your rights. The future of our democracy depends on it.

It’s important to show how these ideologies backfire, even on those who initially support them. While many Germans supported the Nazis, the regime ultimately led to devastating consequences for the entire country. War, economic ruin and widespread suffering impacted everyone, regardless of their political views.

In the Soviet Union, the communist regime promised equality but delivered oppression. Millions perished in purges and famines.

In modern authoritarian regimes, such as North Korea or Venezuela, even those initially aligned with the ruling party can face persecution if they fall out of favor. The lack of checks and balances means anyone can become a target.

Even if you agree with a regime’s ideology, living under constant surveillance, censorship and fear impacts your quality of life. You might lose the right to travel, express dissenting opinions or even choose your own career.

There are also economic consequences: Totalitarian regimes often mismanage resources leading to shortages, inflation and economic decline. This impacts everyone, regardless of political affiliation.

Antisemitism often goes along with anti-democratic movements. Groups that hate Jewish people often want a government where one person or group has all the power. That is the opposite of democracy, where people have a say in how things are run.

As for the Supreme Court; a court made up of judges who all think the same way politically is bad for democracy. The court could make decisions that give too much power to one political party or make it harder for people to vote.

We may take our freedoms for granted, but don’t ever forget that they can be taken away far faster than you would think. Everyone needs to be involved to make sure we all have equal rights and a voice in how things are run.

We must remain vigilant. The future of our democracy depends on it.

Joan Solomon’s grandparents immigrated from Poland, fleeing antisemitism in Eastern Europe. She lives in Pikesville.