Eli Rubenstein’s stirring account of the commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, “A tale of two anthems,” (May 23), encapsulates the many positive forces at work in Europe today. They should give pause to those who characterize the continent as hopelessly mired in attitudes reminiscent of the darkest days of its past.
I would suggest to such people that they turn to Israel for guidance, for those resurgent forces have no greater ally than the Jewish state itself – strikingly demonstrated at the commemoration that took place at the site of the Uprising.
We owe Rubenstein a debt of gratitude for so evocatively depicting this gathering of the human spirit where Jews and Poles shared the singing of their national anthems and where the Israel Philharmonic orchestra played Beethoven. Was their ever a moment when differences among people counted for so little and when what we have in common counted for so much?
Not only should Rubenstein’s piece be required reading for all who aspire to a better world but it should also be taught in our schools as an enduring lesson of the triumph of hope over despair where, to quote him, “the human desire for freedom, justice and brotherhood will ultimately prevail.”
Dov Harris
Toronto
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Community should be part of solution
One phrase in the second half of the article “Compromise or sellout at Kotel?,” (May 2), caused me to pause and rethink some of my own views on praying. Almost at the same time, it occurred to me that that very process was the fundamental reason that The CJN is an institution to the Canadian Jewish community that must be preserved and not let go because there are economic and technological challenges.
The key words of columnist Norma Baumel Joseph’s were, “I don’t pray in a mixed community. I am Orthodox.” My views about prayer are perhaps more egalitarian, and I choose to attend shul with my family present with me. I would like to ask Joseph to comment more about her views of prayer, and I would like to read her response, in a continuing CJN. Therefore, I say to the board of The CJN – your job is not completed. I am concerned that you may have considered the challenges the paper faces too narrowly. The economics and technology may be difficult, but you must expand your paradigm.
The CJN is not just a business – it is an institution. It serves the entire Jewish community of Canada. Where are we to go to listen to and differ with other Jews, if not within its pages? The community should be part of the solution to continue to meet the budgetary challenges of The CJN. Please explain to the community what is needed and what options may be available. I am sure the challenges can be addressed and met.
Elliot Berlin
Thornhill, Ont.
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The communal town square
The value that I receive from reading The CJN and being plugged in to the larger community – connecting with others in the communal town square – is well worth more than double the amount that I currently pay for my subscription.
My therapist has noticed a distinct negative shift in my behaviour since news surfaced of the possibility that The CJN would fold. My wife, equally discerning, but less reactive to my moods after 28 years of marriage, expresses hope that the board of directors will figure out what to do about this completely unacceptable situation.
The CJN must go on, for many reasons, as outlined by letters of support published in the last few issues. Another reason it must go on: to ensure that people like myself remain psychologically sound and stable. Now, I’ve got work to do. So, please, with respect, continue to do yours. With deep gratitude to being part of the Jewish community and looking forward to my weekly CJN.
Jonathan Siegel
Toronto
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Participants for research study
I am seeking participants for a research study titled “Cultural Transmission After Catastrophe: Yiddish in Canada after the Holocaust.” I am looking to conduct interviews with children and grandchildren of Holocaust survivors who are or have been active in Yiddish cultural life.
Prof. Rebecca Margolis
[email protected] or 613-562-5800, ext. 2955