It takes a great deal of courage to not only think critically, but to then take public stands. When Betts does this, she is a powerful model for our children in living out true democracy.
Her social justice work brings attention to the children who have been imprisoned, including solitary confinement, by the Israeli government. It is a call for action for justice and peace. This is the kind of leadership I look forward to on our school board.
And as a Jew, I am thankful for her work that leads toward Israelis and Palestinians living as equals as a foundation for a just peace.
There is antisemitism in the world and it is important to examine prejudices against all groups of people. But critique of Israeli policy is not antisemitic, as critique of US policy is not anti-American, but rather is necessary for democracy to function. I am concerned that when critique of Israel is conflated with antisemitism it simply serves as a tactic to shut down dialogue. In Jewish tradition, there is a long history of dialogue, hearing from many viewpoints, as how we discern our path. So I see this attempt to squelch critique as going against fundamental Jewish values. And I am grateful for Betts and others who have the courage to speak up.
Recent Comments
Her social justice work brings attention to the children who have been imprisoned, including solitary confinement, by the Israeli government. It is a call for action for justice and peace. This is the kind of leadership I look forward to on our school board.
And as a Jew, I am thankful for her work that leads toward Israelis and Palestinians living as equals as a foundation for a just peace.
There is antisemitism in the world and it is important to examine prejudices against all groups of people. But critique of Israeli policy is not antisemitic, as critique of US policy is not anti-American, but rather is necessary for democracy to function. I am concerned that when critique of Israel is conflated with antisemitism it simply serves as a tactic to shut down dialogue. In Jewish tradition, there is a long history of dialogue, hearing from many viewpoints, as how we discern our path. So I see this attempt to squelch critique as going against fundamental Jewish values. And I am grateful for Betts and others who have the courage to speak up.