SA ZIONIST FEDERATION
MEDIA RELEASE
The SAZF and Judge Richard Goldstone
16 April 2010
The SAZF wishes to clarify that discussions were held with the Sandton Synagogue regarding the forthcoming barmitzvah of the grandson of Judge Richard Goldstone, and agreement was reached between the parties that no comments would be made until after the celebration.
Contrary to distorted media reports and false blog accusations, the SAZF states unequivocally that at no time was there any suggestion raised by any party that Judge Goldstone should be “barred” or “banned” from entering the synagogue.
Issued on behalf of:
Avrom Krengel
Chairman: South African Zionist Federation
Just can't keep your mouths shut, eh?
More:
15 April 2010
Dear All
We would like to set the record straight and bring you in line with what has actually transpired regarding Judge Richard Goldstone.
The South African Zionist Federation met with the Beth Din and Chief Rabbi Goldstein to voice their concern of the community’s feelings of anger at Judge Goldstone and his presence in the Sandton Shul that would result in an almost certain barrage of protestors on the day of his grandson’s Barmitzvah.
The Beth Din spoke with the Sandton Shul who in turn called a Shul committee meeting. The Sandton Shul then met with the family of the Barmitzvah boy to explained their thoughts and feelings on this issue.
The media has reported erroneously that Judge Goldstone was banned from the Sandton Shul. This is absolutely not true. The Shul gave the family the option to either hold the Barmitzvah at the Shul and face the almost certain protests or to have the ceremony elsewhere. The family opted for the first choice and we assume they persuaded the Judge not to attend the Shul services as they did not want this important simcha to be tainted by protests of any sort.
Yours faithfully
JULIE BERMAN
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
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3 comments:
Tell the truth, Julie. The SA Jewish leadership are power-hungry.
Even, in my case, to breaking the law. Even to lie under oath in courts.
Even to rig court cases, curry favour with mob-bosses.
Let the Chief Rabbi learn to first be a mensch, then a jew. Perhaps I can help him to understand Torah.
Shame on you, Julie. For a better Jewish world, leave the stage.
Steven Silbert
This issue can be argued forever. My suggestion is that everyone should first study Judge Goldstone's track record on his many prominent cases and then judge for yourself.
I think the choice they gave him is called Hobson's choice - very disingenuous!
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