Just days before the August Michigan Democratic primary, the JCRC (Jewish Community Relations Committee) of the Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor invited both Democratic candidates for Mayor of Ann Arbor to a forum to address questions and concerns from the Jewish community. The forum featuring incumbent Mayor Christopher Taylor and County Commissioner Yousef Rabhi was followed by a Meet and Greet with all six candidates for City Council from Ann Arbor’s Wards 3 and 4, four of whom were running in the Democratic primary and two independents who will be on the ballot in November. It was gratifying to the JCRC that all candidates accepted the invitation, and nearly 150 community members – from the Jewish community and beyond – attended.
What was most notable about the night was that it was civil, even kind at times, warm and respectful. One of the JCRC’s goals of the evening was for the Jewish community to lead by example that civic involvement does not have to be nasty and war-like. Even though the candidates disagreed sharply on many issues, the feeling in the room was of respect for all—the candidates and citizens of Ann Arbor—who dedicate themselves to public affairs and making the city the best it can be for everyone.
In response to a particularly hot-button question about past City Council meetings and resolutions that focused on Israel’s war against Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon, both candidates emphasized that their priority when presiding over City Council meetings would be local issues, not international issues, which they agreed are polarizing and divisive.
Following the Mayoral Forum, attendees had the opportunity to Meet and Greet with City Council candidates, mingling and meeting the candidates at their own pace. It was also a time for participants to meet each other and be reminded of their common goal to make Ann Arbor, and American society more broadly, the best it can be, protecting and including all people.
At the end of the forum, City Commissioner (and now Democratic nominee for mayor) Rabhi took some of his allotted time to thank Mayor Taylor for his years of service and asked attendees to applaud in appreciation. In a touching closing, the two candidates embraced—an exceptional model of civility and connection in these polarized and divided times.
The JCRC invites you to save the date for its next forum, on October 12, which plans to focus on candidates for University of Michigan Regent and AAPS School Board. To learn more or get involved with the JCRC, visit JewishAnnArbor.org.