Jewish Rally for Refugees Set for Sunday in Silicon Valley

SILICON VALLEY, CA -- As part of a national day of action organized by charitable immigrant aid organization HIAS, local members of the Jewish community will gather in Mountain View on Sunday, Feb. 12 to speak out in support of refugees and immigrants.

The event is planned for noon to 1 pm Sunday, Feb. 12 at the Mountain View Civic Center Plaza, 500 Castro St., Mountain View.

“Recent actions against refugees and immigrants are in direct conflict with American and Jewish values, and ignore difficult lessons learned from the history of the Jewish people,” Rabbi Jonathan Prosnit of Congregation Beth Am said in a statement provided to Patch Media.

In recognition of the historical experiences of Jewish Americans, whose ancestors were turned away from the U.S. in the 1930s, speakers at the event will talk about the importance of welcoming those fleeing persecution.

Also, speakers including local elected officials, rabbis, and those for whom immigration to the U.S. afforded them freedom of religion, are expected to address the importance of a diverse United States which welcomes all faiths.

Speakers are also expected to stand in solidarity with Muslims affected by the travel ban.

“Many times throughout history, Jews have faced persecution as they sought to enter this land of freedom and opportunity,” said Prosnit. “Now is our time to stand with those in need.”

More information about the National Day of Action for Jewish Refugees, which includes events in 17 cities across the U.S., can be found at http://www.hias.org/day-of-act...

Image via HIAS