"...I’m certain that for some members of this team, there are questions. Concerns raised about the war’s implications for civilians in Gaza, the complexities of the Middle East, occupation, Israel’s current government, the seeming confrontation between universalist causes—including climate change, race, identity politics—and our responsibilities to ourselves as Jews, all give us much to discuss. That too was a part of the message. That we are not simply open to such conversations, we welcome them. I welcome them. During my time in New York, my door will be open to any member of the team who simply wants to come and talk.
I’m certain that when all is said and done, questions will remain, as will some uncertainty, some discomfort. And that’s more than okay. We can and should be clear about who we are and what we stand for—as agencies and institutions. And we can and should expect those in our employ and those who serve in our leadership ranks to reflect those values and ideals in the course of their service. But we must also make room for questions and conversations and a commitment to continuing education. From time to time, individuals may come to believe that their paths lie elsewhere, and that is their right, their privilege. But they also have a right to expect us to be clear about what JCC Association is, and what it stands for so they can knowingly and honorably choose to be part of it and can make that choice with pride.
That’s what we talked about this week. JCC Association of North America—unequivocally Zionist and proudly standing with Israel. May the celebration of Hanukkah remind us of the long and extraordinary history of the Jewish people, and may we, together, illuminate the darkness as we join with family and friends to light the hanukkiah. Am Yisrael Chai | עם ישראל חי."
Read this week's Shabbat message written by Doron Krakow, president and CEO of JCC Association of North America.
Comunicación
1moIt was an honor to attend the training seminar for new facilitators from Latin America. I am very excited to start combating hate from within our community. Thank you for the opportunity to stand with those who seek a pluralistic society that strives for peace.