Friday, July 10, 2015

Flagging Down Prejudice

As my first blog post from my new home in Vernon Hills, IL, I had to reflect on today's big event.  Below is what was sent to my new congregation, Congregation Or Shalom, in our Blast of Torah.  Enjoy!


Today is a momentous day!  Not only is Shabbat coming; not only will we be gathering for Shabbat in the Park (please join us at 6PM for bring-your-own-dinner gathering and 7PM for the music-filled, family-friendly services).

This morning has brought us an incredible moment in our nation’s history.  The State of South Carolina has taken
down its confederate flag, a symbol of oppression and slavery and hatred, which has flown for over 50 years.  Having just moved here from the state of North Carolina, I can tell you that struggles over the symbolic meaning of this flag are still ongoing in parts of our country.  For many who have grown up in the shadow of such a symbol, flying on the grounds of a state capital and an official option on license plates, our country has not felt as free and open as we would like to think a society should be. 

As I watched the flag come down, I found myself moved – at the same time proud to see our country come together to take down this ugly symbol, and yet disappointed that in 2015, we are still learning why it is necessary to remove. I was reminded of our Jewish values of leadership that emphasize our obligations to protecting everyone in society, not only the perspectives of the majority, but also those of most vulnerable and “the stranger amongst you,” those who may be in the minority.  Though the flag may be gone, the hatred and bigotry it stands for is still present.

On this Shabbat, may we each find the chance to celebrate the progress our country has made today in taking a big step towards transcending the bigotry that the confederate flag has continued to fan.  May we each also consider other symbols, some that we might wave, that have the potential to hurt those around us.  And may we each find strength to continue to combat prejudice and hatred of all kinds, wherever it is found – in our own hearts and in the hearts of others.