The Power of a Word 

Diya Ravi

July 4, 2025

While delivering a speech in Iowa, President Donald Trump used the amoral word, “Shylock” causing him to gain lots of backlash. The term is considered anti-Semitic (hostile or prejudiced against Jewish people) and plays into stereotypes about Jewish people and money. He used the word while talking about moneylenders and banks, saying some were “fine bankers” but others were “Shylocks and bad people.”

In a play by William Shakespeare called The Merchant of Venice a Jewish character who is portrayed as a greedy and cruel money lender was called “Shylock”. Stereotypes about Jewish people being dishonest or greedy with money came from this word; it became a negative symbol for Jewish people. Many organizations and people believe that using the word today is not only offensive but also dangerous.

Reporters asked him about what he said later that day when he got off Air Force One. He claimed he didn't know the word was seen as a negative stereotype. “I’ve never heard it that way,” he said. “To me, Shylock is somebody that’s a money lender at high rates. You view it differently from me. I’ve never heard that.”

The ADL (Anti-Defamation League), a group that fights antisemitism, spoke out quickly. They said Tump’s use of the word was “very troubling and irresponsible”. They added that it is important for leaders to be cautious with their words because people are influenced by what they say. 

Democrats also spoke out against Trump. Daniel Goldman, a representative from New York, said, “This is blatant and vile antisemitism, and Trump knows exactly what he’s doing.” Also, the CEO of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, Amy Spitalnick, said that Trump had a history of using antisemitic language and ideas, and that his comment was not a mistake. 

Unfortunately, this wasn’t the first time a politician has been called out for using this word. Back in 2014, then-Vice President Joe Biden used the word in a speech while talking about those who took advantage of military families. After he gained criticism from the ADL, he apologized and said he didn’t mean to offend anyone. 

After Trump’s comment, concern sparked, especially from Jewish organizations. They say it’s dangerous to use old stereotypes that have been used to spread hate in the past. Even if Trump didn’t mean to offend anyone, many believe that leaders should take responsibility for their words, especially when they can hurt entire communities. This situation is a reminder that what we say matters, and being careful with our words is important, especially for people in power.