Tuesdays with Turkeys

Self-haters target Israel for Christmas
London church hosts an anti-Israel carolling

It's ironic that during a time of the year when Christians all over the world are celebrating the birth of a Jew, who they believe with all their heart and soul is the son of God, some would support the activities of self-hating Jews, who have put together an anti-Israel Christmas event.

"The event, called Bethlehem Now: Nine Alternative Lessons And Carols For Palestine, has been organized by Jews For Boycotting Israeli Goods, a group of secular British Jews opposed to Israeli policies," the London Times Online reports.

What can only be properly described as a hate-rally, will feature traditional Christmas Carols with the lyrics changed. They have been rewritten to attack the Jewish State. Instead of singing about peace on earth, goodwill toward men and the most wonderful time of the year, they will be singing bloody murder and condemning Israel for defending herself against terrorism and a genocidal mindset. Of course the Pro-Palestinians groups and the host church, St James’s, Piccadilly of London, see it differently. What cannot be denied is this event is a disturbing attempt to promote hatred toward Israel and even more disgusting are the self-hating Jews who are at the core of this so-called Holiday celebration.

Thankfully some common sense and decency is prevailing. Former Archbishop of Canterbury, Lord Carey, is condemning the event as well as David Gifford, the chief executive of the Council of Christians and Jews.

Unfortunately some religious figures in London see nothing wrong with the event and believe Christmas is the most appropriate time to "address the need for peace and reconciliation," said Rev Charles Hedley, rector of the St James’s church. Unfortunately the "address"ing of the situation Rev. Hedley speaks of does not mention Arab suicide bombers blowing up buses filled with Israeli children or the rocket bombardment falling on civilians in Israel. That has been conveniently left out of this event.

When I was reading the Times Online article I was reminded of the sad reality of self-hating Jews. Some of my friends an colleagues feel I use the phrase to frequently and in a misguided manner. I disagree.

It's bad enough that some Jews don't care about Israel or are oblivious to the threats against their own people. This is a growing problem within the American Jewish community, especially amongst those who identify with the Reform movement. As a proud member of a synagogue that is "reform," I have seen this growing epidemic first hand. However such people also don't wish harm against Israel and to a limited extent understand her importance.

Then there are those Jews who view Israel as the problem. They ignore the terrorism, anti-Semitism and shear hatred practiced against her, viewing Israels existence as the root cause. Get rid of the cause and you no longer have the effect.

Such an attitude is simply suicidal. Which is why during this Thanksgiving week, I want to express my gratitude to my Gentile brothers and sisters who stand with me in support of Israel and combat anti-Semitism every time it rears it's ugly face.

Without them there would be no Jewish Homeland. Thank you!

Hats off to Eric Voogd


Children victimized by political correctness
Native Americans and Pilgrims expelled from school

The children of Condit Elementary School in Claremont, California will no longer be able to enjoy a four-decade-old tradition of dressing up as Indians and Pilgrims to celebrate Thanksgiving. The political correctness cops have spoken up against children wearing costumes the kids made because they inaccurately depict history and promote stereotypes.

Your brilliant bloggers first response was "finally!" It's about time someone stood up to a society that depicts the Pilgrims as stereotypical homosexuals wearing stockings, garters and ruffle shirts. Then it occurred to me that the clothing was accurate and the complaints were regarding the depiction of Native Americans and their traditional clothing and regalia.

My Bad!

Of course I'm joking and the reason being is that political correctness is a joke and like so many things in America, a good idea has gone much to far and now the negatives greatly outweigh the positives.

Michelle Raheja, the mother of a kindergartner at Condit Elementary School, is to blame for ruining a good wholesome tradition. Raheja, whose mother is a Seneca, compared children dressing up as Indians and Pilgrims to dressing up like slaves (and kind slave masters), or Jews (and friendly Nazis).

Hey Raheja! What is offensive is your comparisons to the Holocaust and Slavery as well as your disingenuous account of history. While no one should ever deny the suffering Native Americans have endured for the past four hundred years, the truth is that they inflicted just as much bloodshed as they received.

In the past I have written about the endless controversy regarding Native American Mascots. Schools and University's have caved into protests by a minority of Indians claiming these symbols are racists. While the issues of Native American Mascots and the Thanksgiving celebration are different, the similarity is the dress garb. A 2002 poll shows that 81% of Native Americans are not offended by the outfits as implied by the profiteering activists.

What we do know is that nearly 400 years ago Pilgrims and Native Americans sat down and broke bread. Even if this festival was the only time these different people lived in peace, which it wasn't, it should be remembered and celebrated. In fact because of the violence that would follow throughout history is more of a reason to give thanks for the peace that was shared.

Even for just a moment.

Paulie