/
/
The Union for Traditional Judaism (UTJ) is deeply concerned by Mayor Bill de Blasio’s singling out of the Jewish community for criticism of large gatherings in violation of both the city and state’s social distancing mandates.
We feel his statement was irresponsible and capable of sowing hatred and fear toward the Jewish community more than promoting healthy and safe practices. This is particularly true because the statement was made on Twitter, a medium most likely to be read by anyone other than members of the Hasidic community whose funeral sparked the mayor’s comment.
We feel it is also important to address how participation in religious communities presents unique challenges for social distancing. Our abiding belief in the importance of our religious observances can sometimes tempt us to try to find ways to continue our religious activities “safely.” There are many reports of churches gathering despite stay-at-home orders, to say nothing of reports of Jewish funerals, minyanim (prayer quorums), and yeshiva operations.
The time has long since passed for everyone to realize that consistent vigilance is impossible and that even gatherings planned with the best of intentions have the potential to spread Covid-19, thus endangering attendees and the public at-large. Therefore, it is critically important for all groups, religious or otherwise, to avoid all gatherings
At this time, our singular religious task is to apply the words of Leviticus 18:5, “and you shall live by them.”