First I was surpised. Then I was angry. Then I was disappointed. Then I forgave. This is very grown up of me; to be able to truly forgive and move on. However not before I share my thoughts with the community.
I currently live in Charlotte, a city long known as the city of churches. However, recently the city has enjoyed an influx of diversity: diversity of cultures, diversity of ethnicities, diversity of religions, etc.
The high holidays of 2014, Rosh Hashanah (the day of awe) and Yom Kippur (the day of attonement) just passed. The holidays are a mixture of penitence, remembrance, celebration and renewal.
In Charlotte, two major global non-profits held their annual fund raising events on these very important and sacred holidays. In terms of numbers, the Jewish community is small compared to the larger population. Yes, these holidays fall on different days each year as the holidays do not follow the secular/gregorian calendar. Leaders and others need to be mindful and to take into consideration these holidays during their annual planning process.
Anti-semitism is still prevalent locally, nationally and globally. It has never gone away. As members of a diverse society we must do better. We can do better. All of our institutions, whether for profit, not for profit, social enterprises or government entities can behave in a way that respects all of our beautiful diversity. It is not hard. It doesn’t cost money. It is simply a mindful choice.
To be a true democratic citizen, we need to be able to accept and honor our differences. Our differences drive our creativity and thus innovation in our business, lives and community. Engagement from all perspectivies is a gift to be cherished and nurtured.
Who Stole My Estrogen? 