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There’s No Doubt

After reading the Madison Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors’ statement regarding Executive Director Eileen Banisch’s posting on a Facebook page, there’s no doubt to its meaning or her feelings towards the Jewish community. An anti-Semitic remark directed toward one Jew is an anti-Semitic remark against all Jews.

Eileen Banisch, in her response to the Board of Directors comments, says that her post was construed by some to be divisive and anti-Semitic, and she added “even violent.” She goes on to say these things were never her intent and noted her years of volunteer work.

Let’s see: 1 bagel + 1 target + 1 owner of a bagel store in town + 1 Jewish name = what? Nothing other than anti-Semitism. What other intent could Banisch have?

Mrs. Banisch has resigned from the Republican Town Committee. Another wrong choice. She should resign from the Chamber of Commerce because that is who she represents in Madison. Resigning from the Republican Town Committee has no bearing on her action, although we live in very divisive times.

The Chamber Board of Directors needs to do more than put out a vanilla comment stating that Mrs. Banisch’s postings on Facebook were in bad taste. Anti-Semitism is not bad taste. Wearing stripes and plaids together is. They have to realize that dog-whistle comments are as clear as day and the only way this should be addressed is by her resignation or removal.

These comments and thoughts are mine and I don’t pretend to speak for anyone else. Also, non-Jews should be just as disgusted by Mrs. Banisch’s behavior as any Jew.

I’ve been in business in Madison for more than 40 years and I don’t believe for one minute her behavior reflects the majority.

Paul Beckman

Madison