Dear Editor,
I am a member of the EHRAC Ad Hoc Subcommittee that’s been planning tonight’s Courageous Conversation, but I am not representing EHRAC here.
Two weeks ago, I learned that my husband, Rick, had had a heart attack in Jerusalem, where he had traveled to visit his daughter and grandchildren. He also had pneumonia and influenza.
I flew to Israel as soon as I possibly could, and am in Jerusalem at this moment.
I have a strong Jewish identity. I have thought a great deal about some—not all— Jewish Culver City residents who have been strongly opposed to a ceasefire and strongly opposed to a community discussion about participants’ experiences and feelings, meant to be a healing experience.
Perhaps there are residents of other religions or no religion who also are opposed to the community conversation.
The polarization in Culver City mirrors the polarization in Israel and Gaza! Can’t we do better than this? Can’t we sit down together and talk? Can’t we residents mirror the respect and goodwill that we would like to see in the Middle East?
How painful it is to hear Muslims and others who favor a ceasefire being referred to as anti Semitic. Some are and some are not!
A reminder to all: many US rabbis have stated they favor a ceasefire. Some Jews in Israel have favored a ceasefire. Are they Anti Semitic too?
How painful to hear pro-ceasefire residents refer to Israelis as “occupiers.” I get their reasoning. But there’s much they don’t know about the history of the region.
My plea: stop opposing the community conversation. Even consider participating. I predict you will be glad you did.
Rebecca Rona Tuttle
