Message from the Mayor
On Sunday, many Cranford residents stood with members of Temple Beth El Mekor Chayim at a gathering to speak out against antisemitism, prejudice and hatred against the Jewish community. I was joined by Commissioners Brian Andrews, Gina Black, Mary O’Connor, and Police Chief Ryan Greco. We thank Rabbi Paul Kerbel, Cranford Clergy Council, Inclusivity & Equity Initiative and Superintendent of Schools Dr. Scott Rubin.
An excerpt of my comments:
How I wish we did not have to be here today or at another vigil to recognize the rights of every person no matter their faith, ethnicity, race, color of their skin or who they choose to love.
Except, we know that silence and a blind eye means that hatred and the haters win. Silence and a blind eye mean that prejudice has an opportunity to flourish, even in our own community.
Every day, we are witness to those who replace civil debate with mean spirited and intolerant language. Cranford is not immune but it is gratifying to know that many are working to make Cranford a more inclusive, welcoming community. Let us continue that work and be the example, especially for children.
When there was violence in a synagogue, church, the nation’s Capital, we were aghast.
When there was violence against Black and Asian Americans, we held a vigil.
When there was violence against LGBTQ Americans, we protested.
When this happens, our hearts are broken and our minds wonder “What next? What can we do?”
I leave you with the words shared by a19th-century Torah scholar Rabbi Israel Salanter. “The longest distance between two points is the distance between the head and the heart.” These two levels of faith — between what we believe with our mind and know in our heart — are, indeed, often worlds apart. Bridging the two is part of our lifelong service.
If we are Silent, hatred wins.
Best,
Kathleen Miller Prunty
Mayor
