Restricting weapons to Israel is right move
As Georgia Jews, we applaud Sens. Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock for their symbolic vote in favor of restricting two future shipments of offensive weapons to Israel. Like the senators, we mourn those murdered by Hamas. We call for the return of the hostages. We also remain deeply concerned about the extreme deprivation and indiscriminate violence in Gaza.
There is a diversity of thought among Jews, many supporting the positions our senators took. Though we are grateful to be in community with them, major Jewish institutions are not representing a critical mass of their constituents. And we regret that these votes have been dishonestly characterized as an “arms embargo.” We who oppose an ever-expanding military campaign with an unacceptable death toll are a majority. A healthy Jewish community is one that embraces pluralism and “argument for the sake of heaven.” May heaven help each of us to be true to our highest values.
EMILY KAIMAN, DEPUTY DIRECTOR, JEWISH COMMUNAL ENGAGEMENT AND DEPUTY DIRECTOR, J STREET GEORGIA
MICHAEL ROTHBAUM, RABBI, TEMPLE BETH DAVID, SNELLVILLE
Looking for kindness in a world that’s changing
We recently traveled to California, home of “things to come” in the rest of America. I had the opportunity to use a crowded gender-neutral restroom. As usual, I’m glad it was there. A lady was washing her hands right next to me, probably a “first” in my 74 years on this earth. A few months ago, we had some remodeling work done by some guys from Guatemala. I’m not sure if they were properly documented, but their work was outstanding. I’m not sure who harvested the fruit I had today, but it was great.
Since the election, commentators have guessed what will happen when the new administration takes over. This time has been called “pregame.” Some seem to be anxious. Some are relieved. Life seems to be a series of adjustments.
Rather than labeling people who seem to be different from me, I’m looking for the kindness in everyone.
DANIEL F. KIRK, KENNESAW
