We are approaching two holidays with deep significance to Jews and to Muslims respectively – Rosh Hashanah and Eid al-Adha.
The shadows of the last war, a war that caused an avalanche of death and destruction, still hover in the air around us. Even though the flames of war have been extinguished, a toxic smoke still lingers, harming free speech and inciting racism towards Israel’s Arab population. The heavy economic cost of the war is once again being borne by the needy who already suffer under the yoke of the high cost of living. Israeli society has become more violent toward the other, and the shameful gaps between the rich and poor expand evermore.
In this situation it is difficult to enjoy the holidays in peace. And yet, the holidays exist to express mankind’s stubborn optimism in the face of dangers and threats. During this new Jewish year, we look forward to a future full of building homes rather than demolishing them, to days of friendship between neighbors instead of hatred towards one another, and to a time where everyone can sit proudly at their ample holiday tables.
May we, our neighbors, and all those taking refuge amongst us, find a path to celebrate the holidays in peace and tranquility.
May we live in a better and more just society, and know to lift our eyes towards the radiant smile of tomorrow.
Wishing a Shana Tova,
And a happy Eid al-Adha,
Sami Michael
President of the Association for Civil Rights in Israel
