July 23, 2006

Rainer Waldman Adkins, Chapter Chair

About a dozen Brit Tzedek folks braved blazing sun to form a contingent at the Israel Solidarity Rally on Mercer Island this past Sunday, July 23. Attendance was about 800 in our estimate, less than the 2,000 organizers were hoping for. We were noticed and acknowledged, with our large organizational banner and nicely stylish t-shirts (yes, we do have more!) Also check our photos below. Our signs stated that a ceasefire and intense diplomacy were in the best interest of Israel, and terribly essential for the people of Lebanon, Gaza and northern Israel: “pro-Israel, pro-peace,” Enough bloodshed. Enough tears. Enough.” (Yitzhak Rabin) “We support Israel: ceasefire now,” for Israel- negotiate now, free the soldiers,” US diplomacy now: ceasefire!” and more.

We encountered a few people who were volubly hostile but in general we were well received. There is no question that our presence had a moderating influence on what could have been a much more strident and militaristic event.

This is not to say that our perspective was expressed in any analysis of the crisis. While we are angered and deeply concerned over harm and devastation caused to Israeli citizens and the senseless provocation by Hezbollah, we are disappointed that there was no specific acknowledgement of the immense suffering of Lebanese and Palestinian civilians or mention of diplomacy as an alternative to the spiral of violence. 8th District Congressman Dave Reichert, running for reelection, gave a disappointing speech with no nuance, despite our repeated efforts to educate his office. His Democratic opponent, Darcy Burner, didn’t speak, but distributed a position paper with a bit more range, including a strong and pragmatic endorsement of a two-state solution- we’ll try to help her grow on the issue.

While support for Israel’s governmental actions was reflexive, prominent leaders in the Jewish community made a point of acknowledging diversity, and this is very much appreciated by Brit Tzedek. Recognition of the reality of divergent perspectives was included in remarks by Federation president Robin Boehler. Even AIPAC chair Michael Spector commented that with 40 participating organizations, there were 40 means for establishing a connection to Israel. A commitment to pluralism represents real maturation for the greater Seattle Jewish community, and this rally was a far cry from the very negative experience in 2002, when pro-Israel/pro-peace activists were actually expelled from an Israel support rally or arrested. (Significantly, the ADL has become an important proponent of pluralism and effective communication.)

Rabbi Harley Karz Wagman, who has been supportive of Brit Tzedek, came closest to our stance, saying, “We join in solidarity behind Israel. Yet, we represent many perspectives. After all, many of us are Jews, and we disagree about everything. We all live by the Talmudic wisdom that whenever three Jews gather, we must express at least four opinions.

We differ about which strategies, which American actions, will most help Israel. I suggest that while our strategies differ, we share common goals, the goals of peace and justice.

Peace means more than an end to killing. Peace includes security, an end to threats to destroy Israel, even threats cloaked in the rhetoric of ending an occupation.

Justice means that every individual, in every country, deserves enough wealth, enough education, and enough political freedom, so that they can live up to their potential. We tend to argue for peace, yet leave justice for later. We will not have enduring peace, without justice.”

We know that our decision to be a rally sponsor was not comfortable to some supporters of Brit Tzedek, and it was not an unanimous decision by the chapter steering committee. We stood firm on respect for diversity, and our interpretation of what is really best for Israel, in the face of hostile criticism by some organizing committee members or rally attendees. This stubbornness led to conversations and possible opportunities that wouldn’t have happened otherwise.

Brit Tzedek’s presence at the rally and participation was somewhat contentious for us, tested our diplomatic skills and patience, deepened important relationships and created new opportunities for dialogue and organization-building outreach. We proved that we are dependable and approachable and stick to our principles wherever we are. It also proved that our Jewish community is capable of change even during times as painful and frightening as now.

It is said that politics is the art of the possible, just showing up is the most important thing, and that good things are 10% inspiration and 90% perspiration. All felt true and real on this scorching day in July.

Photos