I am horrified by the monstrous outbreaks on prestigious campuses and big-city streets of antisemitic demonstrations, many of which terrorize Jews and have an anti-American tinge. Antisemitism has a centuries-old history in the Middle East and Europe, and the U.S. is not without fault, but these current quasi-militant protesters appear to cast both the United States and Israel as oppressors.
No epithet could be more misplaced. Both nations are pluralistic and open to the achievements and successes of every citizen. The poor plight of the Palestinian people is not from oppression by Israel; there are many historical factors — today, the subtle oppression by Hamas and its benefactors.
In America, Jews have immeasurably contributed to the common good. They have been doers and builders in commerce, medicine, the professions, the arts and civil society. I give thanks that Jews have made such important contributions to American life, and pray that they and all of their fellow Americans can forever enjoy the blessings of freedom, liberty and law on which our nation is founded.
John J. Driscoll
Greensburg