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May 5, 2000/30 Nisan 5760, Vol. 52, No.35
Letters to the EditorMay 5, 2000
Who's intolerant?Editor:I am writing in response to Meyer Turken's letter (Jewish News, April 22), which criticized the Orthodox community for speaking out against the Central Conference of American Rabbis on its decision to officiate at same-sex commitment ceremonies. He implied that Orthodox Jews treat women as "second-class citizens." As a female member of an Orthodox congregation, I'm getting a little tired of non-Orthodox writers describing me as a "second-class citizen." The Orthodox women I've known come from a variety of backgrounds - Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, secular and gentile. Their education levels range from post-secondary to post-doctoral. Many are homemakers; many have careers. Some are married, some single and some are single mothers. Many of us have faced some challenges because of our choice to be part of the Orthodox community: strained family relationships, lost friendships, career setbacks, and sometimes, unfortunately, divorce. There is one thing we all have in common - none of us would choose to give up this fulfilling, meaningful way of life for the ego-gratification of leading prayer from the bimah. The fact that Orthodox rabbis disagree with the CCAR's policy on gay marriages does not qualify as intolerance. Many Reform rabbis are also disappointed with this change. Halachic dispute is an ancient Jewish tradition and could also be described as free speech. I have never heard an Orthodox rabbi condemn any group of Jews or state that any would be unwelcome in their synagogue. We are frequently reminded to love our fellow Jews and to avoid senseless hatred. If Mr. Turken needs a good example of intolerance, he should examine the wording of his own letter. Hannah Gold Phoenix (Via the Internet) Kudos for coverageEditor:I just wanted to take this opportunity to express the appreciation of the Jewish Community Campus Task Force, in particular Lanny Lahr, Steve Hilton and me, for the outstanding coverage the Jewish News has given the Scottsdale Planning Commission and City Council hearings on the campus. Your editorial perspective, and especially the efforts of reporter Chris Garifo, clearly went above and beyond the call of duty. You are helping us build community, which is what the campus is really all about. Ron Bookbinder Jewish Community Campus Task Force Chairman Phoenix |
