More than 60 community members gathered at Beth Israel Congregation February 18 for a special evening of civic engagement, hosted by the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Ann Arbor (JCRC) and co-sponsored by A More Perfect Nation: The Jewish Partnership for Democracy.
The event offered attendees an opportunity to learn how they can become more involved in public life – whether by participating in local Democratic or Republican party organizations, serving on city or county commissions, or engaging with the many nonprofit organizations throughout the Greater Ann Arbor area.
The evening stood out for its spirit of collaboration and shared purpose. Regardless of political affiliation, participants were united in their belief that active civic engagement is essential to the health of the community. Throughout the program, local political leaders from across the political spectrum engaged in thoughtful and friendly conversation. A particularly memorable moment came when Stuart Foster spoke warmly about his admiration for Debbie Dingell and her late husband, John Dingell. Speaking to Rep. Dingell shortly after she addressed the audience, Stuart said, “you and your husband brought up memories of a bygone era, when people who disagreed could still be good friends.”
The evening underscored the vital role civic participation plays in strengthening democratic institutions at the local, state and national levels. Rabbi Asher Lopatin, the Community Relations Director at the Jewish Federation, reflected that “This evening showed that the Jewish community of Washtenaw County is interested in helping the broader community by investing their time and efforts in civic engagement on all levels.” It also highlighted the value of bringing people together across political differences to foster respectful dialogue and shared commitment to community.
The JCRC, a part of the Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor, remains committed to encouraging civic engagement and constructive conversation around the issues facing the region and the country. Organizers hope the Washtenaw County community can serve as a model for how people with differing perspectives can engage respectfully – upholding their values while cultivating openness, understanding and meaningful dialogue. For more information about the JCRC, contact Rabbi Asher Lopatin (asher@jewishannarbor.org).