Bishop Voices Dissent Over Gaza Incursion
By Shayndi Raice
The Jewish Advocate
The protest against the Gaza incursion was organized by more than 16 pro-Palestinian organizations and occurred only hours after Hezbollah began launching rockets into Israel.
Nancy Kaufman, executive director of the Jewish Community Relations Council, said that she was very disappointed with the bishop's decision to publicly condemn Israel. "I told him that I am deeply disappointed in his actions," said Kaufman, after confronting Shaw at the protest. "I find it deeply hurtful and painful that someone who we thought was trying to work with us toward a peaceful solution would decide as a public figure to demonstrate in this way."
Kaufman added that she was especially disappointed that none of the pro-Palestinian protesters, including the bishop, chose to comment on the attacks against Israel, including those out of Gaza and Lebanon.
The pro-Palestinian contingent presented Israeli Consul General Meir Shlomo with a letter denouncing what they call "the continuing war crimes perpetrated by the Israel government against the million and a half residents of the Gaza Strip." The letter, accusing Israel of being responsible for a "major humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip," calls on the Israeli government to "act immediately to alleviate a humanitarian disaster by ceasing its military actions, opening Gaza's borders, and providing sufficient supplies of electricity, water and food to meet the needs of the population."
The bishop did not sign the letter.
Shaw told the Advocate that while he prays for Gilad Shalit, the Israeli soldier who was kidnapped by Palestinian militants on June 25, he said that he thinks "the response of the Israeli military is disproportionate … I'm deeply concerned about the 700,000 people who are without water and food and don't have any power."
Upon receiving the letter, the consul general said: "This letter was signed by people who will condemn Israel for everything that happens. The letter was very unpleasant and I don't really take it very seriously."
Although Shaw did not sign the letter, Shlomo said he was displeased that Shaw chose to make his views known through a demonstration.
"He's never asked to meet with us and get his point across, so I find it strange that the first time he comes here he chooses to demonstrate," said Shlomo. "I think it's regrettable because we are always open to dialogue."
