|
The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee :: E-Newsletter 06/23/14 |
|||
|
|
|||
| Presbyterian Church (USA) votes to divest | |||
| Today, we at The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee are saddened to report that the Presbyterian Church (USA) voted to divest from three American companies because of their sales to Israel, by the very narrow margin of 310-303.
“This divestment decision is simply outrageous. We at The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee are disappointed, hurt and saddened. But we are not surprised, given the animus that a determined core group of Church officials has demonstrated against both the Jewish people and the State of Israel,” said Howard Tevlowitz, Executive Director of The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee. “This decision will undoubtedly have a devastating impact on the relations between mainstream Jewish groups and the national Presbyterian Church (USA). We hold their leadership accountable for failing to isolate and repudiate the radical, prejudiced voices of their own denomination.” “We will continue to show pride in Israel and be grateful for the many amazing products and technological advances that continue to originate in Israel. And we will focus more and more of our efforts on supporting Israel, regardless of these misguided actions” added Rabbi Howard Simon and Pastor Joey Mimbs, Co-Chairs of the Federation’s Heller Israel Advocacy Initiative. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made the following statement on “Meet the Press” this past Sunday, “It should trouble all people of conscience and morality because it’s so disgraceful. You know, you look at what’s happening in the Middle East, and I think most Americans understand this: They see this enormous area riveted by religious hatred, by savagery of unimaginable proportions. Then you come to Israel and you see the one democracy that upholds basic human rights, that guards the rights of all minorities, that protects Christians. Christians are persecuted throughout the Middle East. So most Americans understand that Israel is a beacon of civilization and moderation. You know, I would suggest to those Presbyterian organizations to fly to the Middle East, come see Israel for the embattled democracy that it is, and then take a bus tour. Go to Libya, go to Syria, go to Iraq, and see the difference. And I would give them two pieces of advice: One is make sure it’s an armor-plated bus. And, second, don’t say that you’re Christians.” SEE ALSO: Read a lengthy explanation via Huffington Post * * * What Can You Do? — SHARE YOUR STORY: Tell PCUSA why supporting Israel is important to you! * A Taste of Europe, 2212 Gulf Gate Drive Bed, Bath & Beyond, 6567 S Tamiami Trail or 111 N Cattlemen Rd Comfort Shoes Siesta Key, 5128 Ocean Blvd Garden Argosy, 361 St Armand’s Circle Katy Rose Olive Oils, Lakewood Dr, Lakewood Ranch Molly’s – A Chic and Unique Boutique – 1874 Stickney Point Rd Publix, Various locations Total Wine, Cooper Creek Blvd, University Park Ulta, 103 N Cattlemen Rd or 6515 S Tamiami Trail The Walking Company, |
|||
