Louis Dembitz Brandeis, Supreme Court Justice ​​​​​​​ Brandeis’ nomination in 1916 to the Supreme Court was met with a great deal of controversy. His progressive political views and his religion were the object of derision and opposition from those who sought to keep him from the court. He was nominated during a time when antisemitism was widespread; the KKK was rising yet again (interestingly it was around this time that many of the Confederate monuments now being removed were first erected). Laws banning Jews and Blacks from admission were on the books of many organizations and neighborhood codes. He was recognized as being anti-big business (which he was) and declared a radical. Of course, he went on to become one of the most influential justices in Supreme Court (and American) history. Here’s a particularly interesting insight that upholds one of Brandeis’ notable legal positions: “the right to privacy.” He saw billboards [...]

Emma Lazarus did not have a rags to riches story. She was born in New York City to a wealthy family and educated by private tutors. She was one of the first highly visible Jewish-American authors. From her position of privilege, she championed Zionism and America’s continuing embrace of refugees. She wrote her famous poem "The New Colossus" in 1883 and it was inscribed on the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty in 1903. The New Colossus by Emma Lazarus Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame, With conquering limbs astride from land to land; Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name Mother of Exiles. From her beacon-hand Glows world-wide welcome; her mild eyes command The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame. “Keep, ancient lands, your storied pomp!” cries she With silent lips. [...]

As America votes and awaits the results of one of the most fraught elections of modern times, it seems appropriate to review perspectives of America through the lens of some well known Jewish leaders spanning the centuries of our country’s existence. Let this serve as a reminder to all of us of the values that connect us at our best, and even across our political differences should reflect our common foundation. I will let their timeless words speak for themselves. George Washington’s letter to the Jews of Newport Rhode Island is often cited as an example of America’s foundational commitment to freedom of religion. However, few reference the letter of welcome to the president when he visited Rhode Island in 1789. It was publicly read by a synagogue leader, Moises Seixas, and was the inspiration for Washington’s cherished and time honored response. Here is an excerpt from the Seixas’ letter: [...]