In life, there
are always choices to be made. Every day and every hour, we have an opportunity
to make decisions that not only affect us but, like a pebble skimming across
the water, it has a ripple effect on our surroundings. As we celebrate MLK in January,
this is the very time we appreciate our freedom while also fighting for our continued
rights and the rights of our friends, neighbors, and other communities.
Driven by my inspiration from
Dr. King and his stance on racial and ethnic equality, in 1982, I was honored
with the ADL Torch of Liberty Award for my work and efforts to help unite and
lead my community by guiding and teaching the principles of kindness, equity,
and compassion. My goal in 1982 is the same today, to fight and stand against
hatred and racism within my community and beyond by being a voice for the
voiceless and never remaining silent.
The pivotal and
groundbreaking movement and connection between Dr. King and Rabbi Heschel have
inspired my Rabbinate from day one. As these great leaders perpetuated the
importance of interfaith friendship and oneness, we must live by their example
to unite by the values of goodness and standing against oppressors. Being silent
is not an option, as silence is a form of stance. The foundation of Jewish religious life has taught us to
thrive, view our ancestors and leaders like Dr. King as models for hope, and remain committed to our principle of integrity.
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