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Israel Rally Post-Commentary

Wednesday, April 17th, 2002 at 3:11 PM Category: Meryl's Notes Blog 1 comment

When I originally wrote the Rally entry, I did it before going to DC. Then, while at the rally, I went into the entry and modified it without writing much since I was on my little PDA melting in the afternoon sun.

It was an awesome experience to be part of the rally. What was incredible was the people who aren’t Jewish that came out to support Israel. There was a sign that said, ISRAEL CONTIGO, or something very close. That translates into ISRAEL WE ARE WITH YOU. There were also signs that said CHRISTIANS SUPPORT ISRAEL. Yes, Christianity got its start in Israel, but from talking to Christians… I got the impression they don’t have the close ties with Israel like many American Jews do.

Being there. You saw faces of every race. Everyone was miserable, but enthusiastically showed their support to the best of their abilities. I felt sorry for the Orthodox Jews who showed up in their traditional garb of black suits, black fedora, beards, and white shirt. All long sleeved. I had no right to complain wearing pants and a mid-sleeved shirt that stuck on me like wet rice.

One thing disappointed me. And it was a big deal. So wrong. Deputy Secretary of Defense Paul D. Wolfowitz said that Israelis “are not the only victims of violence in the Middle East. Innocent Palestinians are suffering and dying in great numbers as well. It is critical that we recognize and acknowledge that fact.”

<edit>After reviewing comments from Meryl and Mike, I understand the problem with Wolfowitz’s speech. It was not the time or place for such words. But, still, I wouldn’t boo. It’s too easy to get criticized for such a reaction. Also, Meryl pointed to photos from the rally and if you look on the third photo, then you’ll see where I was located. I couldn’t find me in there.</edit>

With this, the rally turned hostile with a symphony of boos. Not from me. Not from the people with me. So wrong. Wolfowitz did the right thing and said it well.

You know I rarely talk politics. It was a new experience for me. I also learned that we need to thank the President, Senators, and Represenatives whenever they do something we support. Drop them an email sometime. Put democracy to work.

If nothing else, vote.

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1 comment

Posted by Michael Glazer on April 18th, 2002, 12:14 AM
I agree with you it was a historic and beautiful rally. Booing wolfovitz was mroe than called for it was necessary.

I foudn it very rude of him to make a speech about moral equivalence at a pro-israel rally where we were trying to make the point of moral clarity.

His insensitive remarks to a Jewish audience at a Israel rally underlies the weak mesage and hypocrisy the bush admin has been spewing against Israel’s war on terror.