You used to love to tell me the story of how you and other social activists went up to Peekskill for the concert of the great Black singer, Paul Robeson. You would describe the white racist mob that surrounded the town, and how they threw stones at the buses which were coming up from New York City. And, with great pride, you would speak about the courage of the union members, war veterans, and other activists who formed a human ring around the concert area to protect Paul Robeson.
Once, you added something new to the story. You turned to me and said: ''Jeffrey, do you remember the people who came up to defend Paul Robeson - the members of the various unions, veteran groups, and political organizations? Well, most of them were Jewish. You and I are Jews, and we Jews have a special responsibility to fight for justice in this world. Because we suffered, we feel the pain of other people. Therefore, we have to be in the forefront of the struggle.''
Dad, I was seven years old, and I believe that this was the very first lesson I ever had on the meaning of being Jewish. Up until then, you spoke mainly about the equality between all races and creeds. Suddenly I was reminded that I am a Jew and that a Jew has a special responsibility to the world.
About the author:
Yosef Ben Shlomo Hakohen is an educator and writer living in Jerusalem, and his articles on Torah and universal issues have been published in the Jewish Observer, the Jerusalem Post and other publications. He is also the coordinator of Hazon -a study-program based in Jerusalem, which explores the universal vision of the Torah for Jews and all humanity. Before moving to Israel, he served as the director of the Martin Steinberg Center of the American Jewish Congress - a center for Jewish artists, where he was known by his English name, Jeff Obeler.