Jews are committed to the fight for social justice for all

The recent piece by Mark Oppenheimer (“As Jews left cities, we also drifted from civil rights,” Aug. 27) completely missed the mark in characterizing Jews as drifting away from civil rights issues.

Jews have always been, and still remain, firmly committed to social justice. We take seriously the words of our prophets who taught that while loving your neighbor is important, doing right by your neighbor is what brings about justice and change.

It is true that many Jews are upset by the recent statements from the Black Lives Matter movement that mischaracterize Israel. However, that does not mean we stop fighting for racial justice, equality and for the needs of all those that are oppressed. And some, as Rabbi Sharon Brous recently wrote, are doubling down on our efforts to fight for equality.

We are doing this not only for racial justice but also for refugees, for voting rights, for the fight against hunger and for interfaith cooperation and understanding. The Jewish community has not given up the fight for social justice, and contrary to Mr. Oppenheimer's assertion, we are excellent partners to fight for change. We know what it means to be the stranger and to be oppressed, and we will continue to speak out for those in need.

This story was originally published August 30, 2016 at 2:40 PM with the headline "Jews are committed to the fight for social justice for all."