Rabbi's Weekly Email

Dear Friends, 

I have clear memories from my youth of travelling into NYC to participate in rallies in support of Soviet Jewry. Energizing. Invigorating. Hopeful. Standing together brought a sense of strength and purpose. We could use that sense of purpose these days. 

Today, and every day, as Yehuda Halevi wrote, my heart is in the east. With mass protests ongoing in Israel in response to plans for judicial overhaul, Israelis representing the diversity of Jewish life are showing up to demonstrate in support of democracy. Yesterday, Prime Minister Netanyahu fired Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, setting off a new wave of gatherings, with Israelis spilling out onto the Ayalon Highway. Even the Israel Philharmonic came out to play Hatikvah!  Gallant had called on the government to stay its legislative efforts to upend the judiciary. With strikes going into effect throughout the country, Israel is fighting for its wellbeing and the values upon which she stands.

We often wonder what we can do from afar. As I learned growing up, we can join together in person and stand against oppression. Each Sunday, people gather in Washington Square Park to demand a democratic Israel. Today, you can make your voice heard outside the Israeli Consulate 800 2nd Avenue between 42nd/43rd. 

Today, and every day, we stand with our brothers and sisters in Israel. Join me at 4:30pm today to stand together in response to this moment. 

kulanu am ehad,

rg