Reality-Based Hope

To be sure, these are unprecedented and challenging times for the Jewish people, here, in Israel, and around the world. Yet, if you were with us at Temple for the Antisemitism Summit a week ago Thursday, you heard a reality based affirmation of hope.
Our speakers, Myra Clark-Siegel, AJC Westchester-Fairfield Regional Director, and Scott Richman, Regional Director ADL New York and New Jersey, offered their perspectives on the wellbeing of the Jewish community, locally and beyond, in a conversation moderated by Tara Rosenblum of News 12 TV network. The three of them shared personal stories, the statistics on antisemitism, and information about current issues and emerging trends.

While I have background and strong opinions about these matters, the two panelists deal with this every day, intensely, thoroughly, and in real time, and all of us, including me, benefitted from their thoughts and words. They presented specifics about the trends and what we can do about them. Most importantly, for me, is how their knowledge, understanding, commitment, and passion for their work and the wellbeing of the Jewish people stood out. Their presence in our congregation lifted my spirits and gave me hope.

What is the next step? Visit their websites, American Jewish Congress and Anti-Defamation League. Learn more about their work, their history, and their goals. Join their mailing lists. Attend their events, in person and online. As we heard a week ago Thursday, these small steps make a difference and bring hope.

Rabbi Dennis Ross