However, if those same babies are put in pink jumpsuits, they will be told how pretty they are, or cuddled. If they're wearing blue jumpsuits, they'll be patted on their chins. If there's a football coach who tells the players they're acting like girls, find out how your son feels about it. Take a little time to explain homophobia and sexism. Other Jewish traditions can also help young men become part of a nonsexist society.
Jewish tradition believes in sexuality as a positive force.
Jewish texts are full of passages depicting men pleasing their wives, and couples engaged in vibrant sexual relationships. When parents portray sexuality in a negative and fearful light, Kivel argues, young men are being done a disservice. Kivel also advocates teaching young Jewish men about the proud legacy of Jewish activism and the important role Jews played in the civil rights movement of the '60s. Beyond that, in order to understand and combat racism, Kivel posits a question he feels many Jews, including himself, struggle with. Also on the subject of skin color, Kivel noted that convicted killer Timothy McVeigh, L.A-area JCC shooting suspect Buford O. Furrow, and the Columbine High School killers all share a lack of pigment.