“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.”
This is near the very opening of the Declaration of Independence of the United States of America. The Founding Fathers made it very clear that all citizens are to have equal rights. This has proven to be the case in its relationship with the Jewish community. For more than two centuries, Jews have enjoyed more rights here than in any country in history. Jews have flourished in business, academia, and socially. Yes, there were times when Jews were barred from certain hotels, banking, and country clubs. But we overcame and have succeeded in penetrating all levels of society. We became a major component in its envied economy.
This country has been a beacon of light, as it allows all its citizens freedom of expression and of religion. It goes to battle to ensure the well-being of those in suppressed countries. In short, we as Jews have a lot to be thankful for, living in the USA. It’s been a glorious 250 years.
But lately, a lot of this glory has been under attack. The Democratic Socialists and the radical left have teamed up with Islamists in their political goals. Although Muslims are by nature conservatives, they have nonetheless made an alliance with the left. Their common goal? To declare war on the West and to be anti-Israel.
It is unfathomable that last week three ultra-progressive leftists won their primaries in New York City. Among the candidates are those who feel that the United States got what it deserved on 9/11. Others have abused the American flag. And others want to put an end to closed borders, to empty prisons, and to defund the police.
What was the average NYC voter thinking? Don’t they see the disastrous effects of these policies? How can they turn on their own country? No doubt a lot of it was driven by anti-Israel animus. Thus, Brad Lander, the “proud Jew” who is vehemently anti-Israel, defeated incumbent Jewish Congressman Dan Goldman, who is an Israel supporter. Lander is no proud Jew. He is an embarrassed Jew who will do anything to show that he is not with the Jewish people.
The election results were quite ominous. Good things are not on the horizon for Jews or good citizens of the United States. Two hundred fifty years was a nice long ride, but it is beginning to fray around the edges. This drives home the saying of Chazal: Ein od milvado. There is no one else to rely on but Him. Hopefully, Hashem will be there to protect us and ensure brighter days ahead.
Rabbi Yoel Schonfeld is the Rabbi Emeritus of the Young Israel of Kew Gardens Hills, President of the Coalition for Jewish Values, former President of the Vaad Harabonim of Queens, and the Rabbinic Consultant for the Queens Jewish Link.
