Brava Deborah Oleshansky, for “Loud and Proud Judaism.” It makes me proud to be part of our JCRC which works diligently to combat antisemitism in our community and in all of Tennessee! As an educator, I believed in teaching that ignorance leads to fear which leads to racism and all that comes with that, such as violence. Education is key but must proceed without book bans and restrictions on topics such as the Holocaust.
The political engagement of the JCRC in our local and state politics is vital. Protecting our Democracy begins at our local and state levels.
All that the JCRC does reminds us of how important engagement in our National Elections is as an essential tool in combatting antisemitism. Whether you voted Republican or Democratic, for financial reasons or Israel Support, it is well documented how the incoming administration supports right wing Christian Nationalism. Separation of Church and State cannot be canceled. My generation remembers forced prayer in Nashville schools and the “in Jesus’ name we pray” later changed to a “moment of silence.” We are back there again. The real threat is in the fact that those who support this, associate Christian Nationalism as a “positive influence of faith and morals in society” which implies all other religions are immoral, etc.
“Loud and Proud, yes! Let’s remained engaged as to what is already happening at a fast pace with more to come.
Rae Levine
Nashville, TN 37209
The Jewish Observer is published by The Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville and made possible by funds raised in the Jewish Federation Annual Campaign. Become a supporter today.
