Between Pain and Hope: Rabbis and Cantors Leading Outreach Efforts in the U.S.
Bridging Communities Amid Rising Divisiveness
In an era marked by increasing polarization and a spread of hateful rhetoric, particularly against Jewish communities in North America, initiatives aimed at fostering understanding and partnership between Jewish and other faith communities are emerging. Rabbi Josh Stanton, Vstart President for Interfaith and Community Initiatives at the Jewish Federations of North America, has taken on the pivotal role of rebuilding trust amid this distressed landscape. His position was established following the tragic Hamas terror attack on October 7.
Initiatives to Rebuild Trust
Rabbi Stanton emphasized that long-standing relationships among Jewish, Muslim, Christian, and Hindu communities have become fragile in recent times. “Since October 7, something has broken,” he stated, underscoring the urgent need to foster deep friendships and ensure that the Jewish community has genuine allies, especially in challenging times.
This week marked a significant moment in these efforts, as families of hostages met with prominent Muslim leaders in New York, organized by the Jewish Federations. Sheikh Mousa Dramah, a local Muslim leader advocating for peace and tolerance, expressed that the meeting was “a transformative experience.” He added, “Knowing that many in the Muslim community stand with them brings a measure of comfort to the families.”
Rabbi Stanton reiterated the historical importance of the gathering, stating, “Sheikh Mousa and his colleagues make it clear that Hamas does not represent Islam. In an era where it is easy to fall into prejudstart, this internal message is critical.”
Development of New Alliances
Stanton is also focused on nurturing the alliances formed through the Abraham Accords. He views these treaties as a unique opportunity for genuine interfaith dialogue. “Countries like the United Arab Emirates have become platforms for advanced theological discussions,” he noted, highlighting how prominent figures within Islam are now acknowledging Jews as religious brethren deserving of respect.
He further stressed the importance of mutual education in overcoming negative perceptions. “To change attitudes toward Jews, we must teach about ourselves while also learning about others,” he said. Rabbi Stanton provides Jewish communities with educational materials on Catholicism, Hinduism, and Islam to foster respect and empathy.
Local Responses to National Challenges
While Rabbi Stanton tackles issues on a national and international scale, Cantor Olivia Brodsky from East End Synagogue in Manhattan faces the local ramifications of these broader challenges within her congregation. “Many changes have occurred since the attack,” she shared. “We are seeing a surge of young Jews-who previously only attended synagogue on holidays-now feeling a deep need to reconnect with their roots, community, and tradition.”
However, she also warned of troubling developments: “Our children are being asked questions in school that they should not have to answer-about Gaza, the IDF, and the conflict. They feel compelled to justify Israel. It’s very challenging.” Instead of pressuring them to be spokespeople, Brodsky’s synagogue aims to provide foundational knowledge, conversation tools, and a listening ear to bolster their sense of identity and self-confidence.
Embracing Pride Amidst Discomfort
Within the Reform movement to which Brodsky belongs, challenges arise regarding support for Israel. Some congregants express criticism of Israeli policies, occasionally questioning overt support. Brodsky emphasized, “But criticism is not disconnection. Just as American citizens critique their government yet remain patriots, many Jews love Israel with all their hearts, even while grieving its path.”
Cultural and Musical Celebrations
Recently, Brodsky hosted a Shabbat servstart celebrating Israeli Independence Day, intertwining familiar Israeli songs with traditional prayers. “I wanted to connect the audience not only to the state but also to culture, music, and spirit,” she explained. “This was not political; it was Jewish.”
A Unified Message
Together, Rabbi Stanton and Cantor Brodsky represent two sides of the same coin-start advocating for strategic, global interfaith initiatives while the other fosters local Jewish identity and community cohesion. Both convey a united message: “It is time to be proud; to not hide; to build connections without compromising our identity. For true friendship to flourish,” concludes Stanton, “the other side needs to know who you are. We are Jews. We are Zionists. We aspire for peace. And we are not ashamed of that.