Diaspora Jewry
“‘Out of depth, I call you,’ ... those are very powerful words and remind us, especially when we recite the psalms, that we are not the first generation that faces adversity … and that many psalms express hope and confidence in the future,” said Rabbi Jacob Blumenthal, chief executive of the Rabbinical Assembly, the rabbinic arm of the Conservative movement.
In a letter to their communities, 35 Orthodox Jewish leaders and nine medical professionals write, “To all those from out of state considering spending Pesach here in Florida: It’s halachically prohibited and medically irresponsible to come for Pesach.”
The group has expressed concern by the “opposition’s attempts to ignore the choice of the Zionist majority.” And it is disappointed with Blue and White, as well as Yisrael Beiteinu, for including the Arab Knesset members, “who are known for openly supporting the interests of Israel’s enemies.”
The two-dozen individuals will move directly into quarantine for 14 days in cities across Israel.
“This is a time people will need their various micro-communities even more than their macro ones,” say community leaders.
“But even when I heard about it, I figured I’d much rather be quarantined in Jerusalem than in Los Angeles. It’s a small price to pay,” says Yehoshua Zepeda.
“This law will hopefully raise another level of understanding about the shared roots between the Jewish people, the Portuguese people, and Latino and Hispanic populations, many of whom are the result of the forced disconnection due to the Inquisition,” said Ashley Perry (Perez).
“We decided to use the best technological and digital tools available to provide potential ‘olim’ with all of the same, necessary information,” said Rabbi Yehoshua Fass of Nefesh B’Nefesh.
Jewish federations, denominations, day schools, Hebrew classes and synagogues are adapting to weeks and possibly months of social distancing and quarantines due to the pandemic.
The song is titled “Feker Libi,” which translates to “The love of my life” or “My beloved” in Amharic, the official language of her country of origin.
Instead, it will offer broadcast presentations on resources for families, young professionals, singles and retirees looking to make aliyah.
“American Jews vote Democratic by wide margins because on issue after issue, our values align with those of the Democratic Party,” said Matt Nosanchuk. “That is truer than ever this election year.”
