Last weekend, someone stole an Israeli flag sign from Erika Brunwasser’s lawn.
That’s not the first such theft in Westport.
It’s happening all over the country, too.
In response, Erika took the high road. She wrote:
“To whomever stole my Israeli flag lawn sign from our yard: It is illegal to steal something from someone’s property.
“For some context, an Israeli flag is not a political statement. It is our heritage, our religion, and our cultural and religious identity.
“If you are interested in learning and seeing for yourself about all the beautiful ways that Israel is an inclusive, accepting, and democratic nation (one rich in diversity and history), feel free to take one of the many trips that are available for people of all faiths and nationalities.
“Thanks to the friends and neighbors of all faiths who have been supportive and loving. We are truly lucky to live here.
“God Bless America (and Westport!).”
NOTE: Flags are available at the Jewish Federation of Greater Fairfield County.
Israel is Democratic. Woman have rights unlike in many Arab countries. Israel and the USA governments are turning authoritarian and weakening democratic traditions. Israel may be more divided then the USA The failure of Israel to defend its democracy on Oct 7 is a disgrace that Netenyahu refuses to answer to. The theft of a flag is wrong. I would urge our community to keep a perspective on the issues democracy is facing Keep your eye on the ball and focus.
Stealing any kind of flag is the most petty and ineffective way of..what would you call it…”protesting”?
Israel’s anthem is “Hatikvah” which mans “hope.” And it’s premise is “Tikkun olam” meaning “to improve the world.” It is difficult to follow those principles and with justice, when its neighbors’ primary motivation is to “kill Jews” [see Hamas 1988 Covenant] and their slogan is “River to Sea” abbreviated from “Push Israelis into the Sea” preached sinc 1948. I applaud Erika’s righteous and constructive response to a morally bankrupt act.
See Hertzel’s book…
This is at least the second time you reference Theodor Herzl. Admittedly, although I am a zionist, I am not completely familiar with his work and what you seem to allude as a controversial figure. Can you please expand on your comments? Remember, he is only one leader of the zionist movement who began his work in the 1800’s so even if you may dislike one of his ideas, it does not necessarily negate the entire validity of zionism (which certainly has faults). Seems like you yourself, by dropping hints and clues, are being controversial. Say what you want to say already.