I wish the Port Authority had acted differently but the rabbi's actions were outrageous!
---
So, it's outrageous to desire a Hanukah display? And when the Port Authority dithers about until the last minute, to actually try and do something to force the issue?
Why the hostility towards Hanukah? Got some sorta deep seated issue with it, or the people who celebrate it?
No hostility toward Hanukah on my part. I would never sue to see Hanukah symbols taken down -- even if a Christmas tree was absent. My letter to the Rabbi sums up my feelings.
Here is my email to the Rabbi. His email address is: rabbi@chaiseattle.com
Rabbi Elazar Bogomilsky,
Why is removing Christmas trees from public forums during the Christmas season so important to you? When I see Jewish symbols I am not offended. I am very happy to see them. It tells me that there are people of faith and kindness. My first impulse when I see Jewish symbols is not to say there must also be a Christmas tree or I am going to sue!
Personally, I find your actions to be very petty and childish. Millions of people will go through the SEATAC terminals and be denied the traditional Christmas experience because you could not see your chosen Jewish symbol. That does not strike me as a positive way to win friends and find common ground with your opponents.
Hundreds of millions of Christians in this country generously support the State of Israel and all that she stands for. Do you think your petty stand “You must take down the Christmas trees, if you do not put up Jewish symbols, or I will sue is really the appropriate action to be taken? Why cannot you be as generous and understanding of American Christians as they are of the Jewish faith and the State of Israel?
You really have disappointed me. Your actions bring great sorrow to me and many others.
Sincerely,