RE Column
Submitted by Ashley Hamlin, DLRE
The last 18 days have carried so much horror and grief as we watch the brutal conflict in the Middle East. As someone who does not identify as either Jewish or Arab, but as someone who has friends and acquaintances who are Jewish and Palestinian, it is heartbreaking to watch the suffering, dying, and pain on both sides of the conflict. I attended the rally for Israel on October 10 on the steps of Old Main on campus. It was a moving and poignant experience with Jewish leaders and rabbis singing and saying prayers for their people and leading the large gathering that spilled out onto the lawn in uniting for the safety of the Jewish people. City officials spoke on behalf of the Jewish community and people held hands or wrapped their arms around their neighbor in a spirit of coming together for each other. Speakers lamented the long history of anti-semitism and genocide Jews have endured over so many years and which is still alive today. I also attended the Vigil for Palestine on October 22. It was held on a small side of the lawn near the HUB on campus. There were far fewer people there and though it was held after dark and I couldn’t see quite as well, there did not seem to be many white folks in attendance. The more intimate gathering held candles and offered hospitality, passing around dates to all who came. The grief and anger were palpable. The speakers struggled to keep from weeping as they recalled the names and families who have been murdered in this war and violence. They spoke of oppression and displacement, of 43 family lines who have been wiped from the earth (families of at least 40 or more people in each family group whose lineage no longer exists). They lamented the dismissal, minimizing, and discrimination they face all over the world. They constantly have to be concerned for their safety. As they lifted their voices for justice and peace from a more obscure location on campus and with fewer supporters to stand with them, I could not help but notice how this image reflects the reality of their small position in the Middle East. Both sides hurt and are grieving tremendous loss. And, in the midst of this, Ukranians are still in a precarious position and fighting for their lives. So much pain. So much suffering. As Rev. Tracy wrote last week, we grieve with all who are hurting. We seek relationship and to work with each person to see what they need us to do, because we believe in the dignity and worthiness of every person. Each person matters. I want to offer a resource to help talk with our kids and youth on these difficult issues. I know we hold each other as we hold and seek ways to understand how to effectively help our suffering siblings here in our interfaith community and across the world. I invite you to reach out to someone you may know or maybe not know who is Jewish or Palestinian in State College and offer your love. It matters. It makes a difference.
Resources:
Explaining the News to Our Kids
https://www.commonsensemedia.
How do I talk to my kids about violence in the news?
https://www.commonsensemedia.