Jews of France-Hold Fast-We Will Stand with You!

In the aftermath of the horrific slaughter of Jews once again in France, along with so many others, questions have been raised about the future of the Jewish community in that country. Many, including the Israeli Prime Minister, have urged aliyah in response to the horrific anti-Semitism and (up until now) the callous indifference of the French people.  Jews have endured attacks for years, some have been murdered simply for the crime of being Jewish.

As an American Jew living in safety, far be it from me to suggest that French Jews should remain in a country which has shown such gross indifference to their plight until recently.  However, I believe that a vibrant Diaspora is as vital to the future of the Jewish people as a vibrant Israel, and I would argue that to stay and fight for the right to live in safety and security in a country that Jews have lived in for centuries is as much a viable choice as is making aliyah to Israel. Jews of France- if you hold fast, we shall stand with you. You will not stand alone.