Trials of a Jewish Lawyer
Combating Antisemitism by Building Bridges, One Relationship at a Time
In a recent Times of Israel blog post, Allan Ripp recounted a harrowing antisemitic encounter. As he described:
“I was speaking with a regional director at the Anti-Defamation League following a terrifying assault in New York’s Central Park, during which a man came at me with fists-a-blazing and a torrent of ‘Jew pig’ obscenities after I dared challenge him for riding a bicycle on a pedestrian path, this after he’d aggressively elbow-checked me while pedaling past.”
This story is a stark reminder of the reality we face as Jews in today’s world. The fear, anger, and feeling of being targeted, simply for who we are – these feelings are all too real. Yet, even as we confront the harsh truths of antisemitism, I believe there’s another path worth exploring: the transformative power of personal connection. This was the central theme of my five-part Times of Israel blog series, “Trials of a Jewish Lawyer.”
Part 5
Concluding Reflections on the Benefits of Mutual Respect and Understanding
This five-part series, ‘Trials of a Jewish Lawyer,’ was intended to show that understanding and camaraderie can be cultivated even in unexpected places and among people of different faiths and beliefs.
One of my most memorable interactions involved a non-Jewish client, Jim. Jim lived in the deep South, far away from any Jewish community. Over the years, we developed a strong working and personal relationship. Despite our different backgrounds, Jim embraced my Jewish identity with genuine interest and respect.
Part 4
Faith Under Pressure: Navigating Professional Obligations and Personal Convictions
In Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice, Shylock, a Jewish moneylender, navigates a complex and often hostile world. Although he engages with his Christian peers in business and conversation, he famously states, “I will buy with you, sell with you, talk with you, walk with you, but I will not eat with you, drink with you, nor pray with you.” This line emphasizes his determination to hold on to his religious identity despite societal pressures to conform.
Part 3
The Best Negotiation I Never Had
Life often presents us with moments that test our faith and resolve. Consider the story of Fred, who was walking near the Grand Canyon. He veered from the path and wasn’t paying attention. The next thing he knew, he fell off the edge of a cliff. His arms flailed as he fell, but he managed to hold on to a branch. He started screaming, “Is anyone up there? … Help!!” Finally, he heard a voice from the top of the cliff. “Fred! Is that you, Fred?” “Yes, it is me. Who’s there?” “Fred, it’s me, G-d. I’m here to help you.”
Part 2
Breaking Down Barriers One Encounter at a Time
“While we must always endeavor to think big and achieve accomplishments with global effects, never lose sight of the importance of a single individual achieving small actions. Little by little, you can make a difference.”
— Letter from the Lubavitcher Rebbe, dated 5 Tevet 5736 (1976)
“Think Globally, Act Locally”
— Popular saying from the 1970s
My friends and I wanted to spend Shabbat together in New York. However, a work matter came up the Thursday before our scheduled departure, and I could not go. I was disappointed because my friends and I cherished these Shabbat weekend trips…
Part 1
Responding to Anti-Semitism Through Relationship Building
Groucho Marx once told a story about Otto Kahn, a wealthy financier who some say inspired the “Rich Uncle Pennybags” character in the Monopoly game. In the 1920s, Kahn was dubbed “The King of New York” by Time Magazine. He also gave millions to the Metropolitan Opera, even though they were reluctant to let him buy a box because he was Jewish.