Resolution Against Anti-Muslim Bigotry and for Jewish-Muslim Dialogue

Whereas core Jewish values demand that we do not stand idly by while the blood of our neighbors is shed; and

Whereas Jewish tradition asserts that human beings are created in the Divine Image and that all life is sacred; and

Whereas Muslims are part of the integral fabric of the societies where Conservative/Masorti Judaism flourishes; and

Whereas proactive efforts in interfaith relations with other faith traditions have improved understanding, cooperation and friendship with Jews; and

Whereas extreme jihadist views are espoused by only some segments of Islam; and

Whereas Muslims in our societies are subjected to discriminatory treatment as a result of such extreme views; and

Whereas we as rabbis bear special responsibility to denounce insulting and derogatory behavior by Jews toward non-Jews;

Therefore, be it resolved that the Rabbinical Assembly and its members stand up against the intolerance and ignorance of anti-Muslim bigotry, helping to protect our Muslim neighbors in their communities, homes, places of worship and the public sphere; and

Be it further resolved that  the Rabbinical Assembly declare that the disparagement of another religious community by members of our own community and the defense of actions directed against adherents of other faiths run contrary to our values, and we therefore condemn such actions and urge upon other faith communities the adoption of a similar declaration; and

Be it further resolved that the Rabbinical Assembly support Muslim leaders and adherents who work to extirpate violence in the name of Islam; and

Be it further resolved that the Rabbinical Assembly urge its members and partner organizations to work together in solidarity with our Muslim neighbors, establishing friendship and partnership between our religious communities and engaging in dialog to break down the stereotypes that lead to hatred and bigotry. Such efforts could include: congregational twinning, shared learning, projects for community improvement and solidarity against hate crimes with people in parallel organizations in the Muslim community.