In an appearance planned months before the tragedy in Pittsburgh, David Harris, CEO of the American Jewish Committee, the leading global Jewish advocacy organization, spoke at Temple Sinai of Roslyn on Nov. 8 about the rising tide of anti-Semitism both in the United States and around the world.
Harris and the American Jewish Committee spearheaded the nationwide #ShowUpForShabbat initiative after the tragedy in Pittsburgh as “a way of demonstrating unity and shared destiny, of saying ‘no fear’.”
Although there have been numerous deadly attacks against Jewish targets in other countries, the massacre at the Tree of Life Synagogue has really brought anti-Semitism to light here in America. Outrage and grief have been felt by many in communities across the country. But, what happens after the memories of this horrific act begin to fade? Harris spoke about ways to fight anti-Semitism.
Once described by the late Israeli President Shimon Peres as the “foreign minister of the Jewish people,” Harris has led the American Jewish Committee since 1990.
“David Harris is an inspiring, effective leader,” said Senior Rabbi Michael White. “Temple Sinai was honored to host him and we are grateful to him for sharing his insights on the rise of anti-Semitism and what we can do to help combat it. In these increasingly polarized times, David remains a voice of wisdom and rationality. David’s international efforts in defense of human rights, advancement of the transatlantic partnership, and dedication to the Jewish people are needed now more than ever before.”
Discussion topics at this event included the primary sources of anti-Semitism internationally, as identified by the American Jewish Committee, the American Jewish Committee’s diplomatic successes, and how the American Jewish Committee remains non-partisan in a hyper-partisan world.
Temple Sinai is a reform congregation located at 425 Roslyn Road, Roslyn Heights. For more information about Temple Sinai or its programs, please contact executive director Alison Stamm at (516) 621-6800 or visit mysinai.org.
