Dear Friends,
This morning, I participated in a press conference with Colorado
Attorney General Phil Weiser, interfaith religious leaders, and representatives
of the LGBTQ+ community in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court’s recent decision
in 303 Creative V. Elenis. This case, which was brought by a Colorado
Web Designer, revolved around the issue of whether the owner of a private business
could refuse to provide services to a same-sex couple based on her religious
beliefs. The Court voted 6-3 in favor of the plaintiff.
When I heard the news of this decision, I was chilled to the
bone. What SCOTUS has done, in essence, is to provide individuals and businesses
with the right to legally discriminate against anyone who does not fit their
preconceived notion of normalcy or morality. This ruling goes far beyond the LGBTQ+ community, however. It is quite possible that this
case could be used to justify refusing to serve a mixed-race couple, or an
immigrant, or anyone whose presence is deemed offensive.
As Jews, we remember all too well how our ancestors were victimized
by anti-Semitic laws that allowed discrimination. It was not all that long ago that here in the
United States - Jews, people of color and religious minorities were legally
denied access to housing, restaurants, hotels, and other establishments because
of prejudicial beliefs that were loosely based on “religious” values. In several states, interracial marriage was illegal. My mother,
Sophie Koven Black (z”l) was born in
Leipzig, Germany and, by a stroke of luck, was able to flee with her parents to America one month after Krystallnacht – the “Night of Broken Glass” –
November 9, 1938. She vividly remembered the “Juden” signs placed on
Jewish-owned business by the Nazi government, and the public shunning and
shaming of Jews. She attended a school for Jewish children – not because her parents
wanted her to receive a religious education, but because all Jews were excluded
from the public schools. This was all legal and expected under the laws of the
land.
Now, I am not saying that this case is equivalent to the
laws of Nazi Germany - not yet. I am, saying, however, that this unfortunate decision has
essentially given a green light to those who would use religion to serve as a vehicle
for perpetuating hatred – not only against our LGBTQ+ brothers and sisters, but
also against anyone who challenges their perception of morality. It is a
powerful and dangerous step on the road to increasing racism and prejudice in
our society. If we do not raise our voices in protest against this
regrettable decision now, we will be responsible for the measures that those on
the Far Right will certainly be taking in the future.
I am proud of the fact that Temple Emanuel is a congregation
that strives to be open to all who wish to be connected to our sacred community
- regardless of race, ethnic background, sexual identity or religious
background. If you want to be part of our congregation and you and/or your
spouse/partner are Jewish-or are interested in learning more about Judaism, we
welcome you! But it is not enough to be simply welcoming. We must actively show
our love for and openness to our LGBT+ family and friends. Today is the last
day of Pride month. It is ironic and painful that SCOTUS decided to announce
this tragic ruling at this time of radical acceptance and welcome. In just a
few days we will be observing Independence Day. Our nation was founded on the belief
of equality and justice. This ruling jeopardizes this vital foundation of our democracy.
In this week’s Torah Portion, Balak, we find: “Mah Tovu Ohalecha Yaakov, Mishkenotecha
Yisrael – How Goodly are your Tents O Jacob; your dwelling places O Israel.”
(Numbers 24:5) These words were spoken by the pagan prophet, Bilaam who was
hired by Balak – the Moabite King – to curse the Israelite nation. But instead
of cursing, Bilaam could only utter words of blessing. Our “tents” and “dwelling
places” are beautiful because they show a diverse picture of humanity. All are
welcome in our midst. We have a large task in front of us to combat ignorance,
prejudice and apathy. We cannot remain silent as we watch bigoted beliefs
define who is welcome and who is not.
Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Joseph R. Black
