Happy Holy Days to our Jewish friends

High Holy Days begin with Rosh Hashanah on Monday, September 22nd and conclude with Yom Kippur on October 1st-2nd.  This is a time to celebrate the Jewish New Year and gather with family and friends to remember Jewish traditions. Rosh Hashanah is the start of the Jewish New Year, which will be the year 5786.  Yom Kippur is a day of prayer, seeking forgiveness from G-d and for the more religious Jewish people, it is a day of fasting.  It is the celebration of the beginning of the Universe and a vow to live your best life.

Of the many values we share is opposition to white nationalists and Neo-Nazis. When Trump failed to condemn these groups during his first administration, Jewish leaders organized the Jewish Democratic Council of America (JDCA)  in 2017.  They can be found at www.JewishDems.org. Involved parties include Adam Schiff, Ron Klein, Chuck Schumer, and renowned guest speakers such as Doug Emhoff and Barbara Streisand.

Threats to democracy and to Jewish people have been connected for centuries. Support for immigrant rights is crucial, as the concept of "There are no strangers," is a foundational principle in Jewish philosophy.  The JDCA organization endorses candidates who share our Jewish and Democratic values.  In 2024 they endorsed the Harris/Walz ticket for its support of Jewish and Democratic values. 

Let's hope the year 5786 will bring more unity and peace under the umbrella of lawfulness and the strength of democracy.

Cindy Engen