Jewish lobbying
I was grateful that Rabbi Marc Kline of Monmouth Reform Temple in Tinton Falls added some Jewish text and thought to “Advocating to make the Garden State ‘whole’” (March 22). In reading the article, other than a few quotes by Rabbi Kline, it sounded like there was nothing Jewish about the meeting in Trenton. Did they study Jewish texts about the issues? Did they discuss issues of Jewish concern that nobody else would care about?
Please understand that I think it is admirable for believers of all religions to contemplate the four legislative initiatives presented — drivers’ licenses for undocumented residents, the right to earn sick leave, voting rights for incarcerated felons, and gun safety. So why not join in secular efforts to discuss and advocate for these causes? Why did they get together as Jews and work on secular issues?
We have a rich history of thought and action on secular issues such as war and peace, fairness, kindness, and the “stranger in the strange land.” Were these texts shared at this meeting or was there nothing Jewish about this gathering?
What an amazing awakening if they had, and a feeling of pride that Jews have been concerned with these topics for thousands of years. Then, armed with these insights, we can use them to help solve these problems.
Nita Polay Levin
Edison
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