One Jerusalem Or Two? The Contest For A Contested City

SOUTHBURY — On Saturday, June 12, from 4 to 6 pm, B’nai Israel of Southbury will hold another educational program in its Middle East Forum series. This one, “The Contest for A Contested City,” will feature a presentation on Jerusalem by Joel Abramson.

The program will include a short review of the very long history of this ancient city, going back some 5,000 years. Mr Abramson will describe the emotional attachment felt by Jews, Christians, and Muslims to Jerusalem. The bulk of his talk will deal with its modern history and its central place in the ongoing peace process between Israel and Palestinians.

Mr Abramson is a past chair of B’nai Israel’s Israel Advocacy Committee, and is a longtime student of the issues. As a parent and grandparent of Israelis, he makes no claim to being impartial. He and his wife, Doris, have visited Israel often over many years.

In addition to his activities at B’nai Israel, he is a member of the National Commission of the Anti-Defamation League and is on the steering committee of the Connecticut Coalition to Save Darfur.  Locally, he volunteers as vice president of Grace Meadows, a not-for-profit housing facility in Southbury.

Dr Hadar Lubin, chair of B’nai Israel’s Israel Advocacy Committee, which is hosting the event, stated, “Some of the material is hotly controversial. It will deal with claims and counterclaims as both Israel and the Palestinians strive for Jerusalem to be their capital. We expect some tough questions and a stimulating discussion. It is hoped that people of all faiths will want to come and participate in a wide open question and answer period, all in a spirit of mutual respect and good will.”

Rabbi Eric Polokoff, spiritual leader of B’nai Israel, said, “In Jewish tradition, a synagogue is a house of worship, a house of study, and a house of meeting.  With our Middle East Forum series we welcome the broader community to meet and study with us.

“Peace in the Middle East is of concern to all Americans,” he continued. “Meddling in the area by Iran, rushing to nuclear capability, has a direct bearing on the peace process. Religious passions inflame the issues. B’nai Israel feels a duty to air the questions and give the public an opportunity to come together to learn and exchange ideas.”

Reservations are requested for the free program, but not required. Refreshments will be served.

B’nai Israel is at 444 Main Street South, Southbury. Call 203-267-3395 or email bnaiisrael@charterinternet.com for reservations or additional information.