Synagogue's new web site honored MLK legacy

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As a way to honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., Central Synagogue-Beth Emeth in Rockville Centre launched a new web site on Jan. 17 that denounced hatred and prejudice.

The debut of the web site, www.unitedagainsthatred.org, was chosen to coincide during the time of King’s birthday. Its purpose was to spread the message of justice and action.

The idea for the site came about during a meeting with congregants and community members on Nov. 30. The participants felt that 2016 provided an atmosphere of anxiety, fear, distrust and even hatred throughout the United States.

Congregants Dr. Louise Skolnik and Lana Glass co-chaired the project and worked with synagogue members and staff, including Rabbis Marc Gruber and Elliot Skiddell, to create the site.

Skolnik and Glass believed the site reflected the synagogue's commitment to supporting social justice through education and advocacy. The founders are hopeful that the site will have a positive effect against those who spew hatred and target and threaten the peace, possessions and safety of all citizens.

“Jews and other vulnerable minorities may be seriously threatened in America,” said Gruber. “This danger seems to be growing. The dogmatism and bigotry on the left and the right, combined with the lack of civility in the recent presidential election, have given permission for extreme groups and individuals to attack vulnerable minorities. The fact that we and others may face mortal danger in the not too distant future is overwhelming reason to remain vigilant”.

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