Michael Waldner is our Orthodox Jewish neighbor and when he was young, his mom saw a black man getting insulted at the store. She let go of her son’s hand and walked up to the store owner and said this man deserves an apology.
She said if he did not get his apology, she would not only stop shopping there, but would tell all her friends and picket that store. Michael says that moment impacted his life to know that one must speak up and stand up against bigotry and injustice whether your black, white, Latino or Jewish.
Michael and the new Jewish Community Council representing Orthodox families in Toms River delivered these thoughts in front of the Pastors and faith based community at the recent meeting. Their goal is to develop relationships and build friendships in Toms River.
Cultural diversity and addressing the rise of antisemitism and bigotry as a whole was a central topic on the agenda. The Toms River Jewish Community Council (TRJCC) have already joined in on a Thanksgiving project, Big Brothers Big Sisters, hosted several conversations with members of the faith based community to start developing these friendships that are obviously so important to them.
Rabbi G. mentioned an upcoming Ocean County Mall Menorah dedicated this year to thoughts of hope for peace. The kids and community drew messages that represent peace while celebrating Hanukkah.
Is this a Chabad event? Who is the Rabbinic organization behind this council?
It looks like 2 different things. There is a meeting, and a Chabad Chanukah event.
Kol hakovod to the TRJCC and a big thank you to all the TR rabbonim for coming together to back them and all their amazing work.
My hat off to these guys! Respectful and meaningful communications is of the only ways our communities can successfully coexist with the miss-informed secular society. Kudos to all of these people who dedicate their time for this. If only we in Jackson would have done the same. It’s not too late.