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Some Things Never Change: And We're Still Here!

Steve Freedman
To many Biblical scholars, Megillat Esther is a literary masterpiece. The text is complete with an intriguing plot, vivid descriptions of characters and settings, and filled with irony and humor to convey its message. And while Megillat Esther has humor and irony in it, it is also a serious story. And though it was written thousands of years ago, it sadly remains relevant today as a powerful allegory for the experience of Jews in America in the face of rising anti-Semitism.

This past Saturday was supposed to be “A Day of Hate” as declared by extremist groups, including Neo Nazis, who were advocating defacing Jewish institutions and dropping hate banners throughout communities in the United States. Fortunately nothing transpired, and in fact, it became a day of unity in many communities. This Day of Hate was another example, in a long list of examples, that anti-Semitism continues to threaten Jewish communities around the world, and here, in America.
 
While anti-Semitism and Jew-hatred have been present throughout history, they have taken on new forms in modern times, often disguised as a political or social criticism of Israel and Zionism. In addition, social media has made it very easy for hate messages to reach more people in a seemingly relentless fashion.

While we prepare to celebrate Purim and all of its joyful customs and rituals, more than ever we also need to reflect on the serious message that is embedded in the story. We cannot remain silent in the face of the rising tide of hate against our people. To do so would be to allow anti-Semitic rhetoric and behavior to fester and grow unchecked, putting ourselves and our communities at even greater risk. As Jews, we are taught to speak out against injustice and to work towards a more just and equitable society for all. We are good at doing that on behalf of other groups and we have a responsibility to speak out against anti-Semitism and to work together to combat it in all its forms as well. Sometimes our perceived status in America causes us and others to forget that we remain a minority group that is often targeted by both extremes on the left and right.
 
It takes individuals with courage to stand up and call out danger and evil. We can take our cues from         Esther and Mordecai. We must call anti-Semitism out where we see it, including putting pressure on local and national politicians to take action against hate - hate against the Jewish people and others as well. Mordecai and Esther risked their own lives to call it out in Persia.

Recently, an alumna of the school, Ariel Behrman ('99), who is the Director of Education Programs and Products for the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) spoke with our 7th and 8th grade students about anti-Semitism in America and our fight against it. While we focus on joyful Judaism at Schechter, we also know it is our responsibility to teach our older children the realities of what it continues to mean to be a Jew in this world. For all the progress we have made, anti-Semitism remains one of the greatest sources of hate globally.

It's an age old story that individuals or groups of individuals rise up to destroy the Jews. From the time of Haman until today, this evil keeps reappearing. And yet, we are still here. While Haman thought he was on the cusp of annihilating the Jews he, instead, was met with justice. When Haman’s intentions became public, it was the result of Mordecai and Esther’s leadership that the Jews throughout Persia came together and unified to fight for, and ensure their survival.

We have faced countless Hamans throughout our history and we have not only survived, we have flourished.

Purim is a reminder that during these challenging times individual leadership and courage, as well as community solidarity, remain relevant and valuable tools for combating anti-Semitism and promoting a more just and tolerant society. Wear masks, be silly and joyful, eat hamantaschen, and listen to Megillat Esther. And in our joy, let’s remember the work we also need to do to ensure the safety and security of our people so we can continue to thrive here, in America, and anywhere Jews live.

Chag Purim Sameach!
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Comments

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  • Carole Rothstein
    Your commentary is always valuable and inspiring and I look forward to reading it and learning. Thank you. Carole Rothstein Rachel Berman’s grandmother
  • rabbi moshe Edelman
    Yasher koach Mr Freedman for the lessons you express in this excellent message/Dvar Torah. SSDS proudly lives the teachings of Esther for our families... young and older.
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