What is the problem that OrLeShalom solves?
Since October 7 2023 there has been a global, national, and local surge in open expressions of anti-Semitism. In response, our local Jewish community has stepped up to peacefully address these provocations in various ways, including counter-protests, letters, city hall engagements, and discussions with political leaders.
Many Jewish community members have highlighted the desire to enhance and better organize peaceful protests both now and in the future.
While we cannot predict the future trajectory of anti-Semitism or anti-Zionism, we must be prepared to address potential escalations with a focus on peace and prevention.
Practical Solution:
Establish a strategic entity that addresses these challenges, utilizing methods outlined by the Albert Einstein Institution (see addendum), including:
- Issuing formal statements,
- Communicating with the community,
- Group lobbying,
- Organizing protests and picketing,
- Symbolic public actions with strategic materials,
- And many other forms of nonviolent action.
Mission:
The mission of OrLeShalom is to facilitate resolute non-violent advocacy for global peace in Central Massachusetts.
Example: A planned rally for OrLeShalom:
- Market, encourage participation,
- Determine participants, strategy, and materials,
- Ensure peaceful behavior,
- Foster relationships with political leaders,
- Keep actions politically positive, strategic, and coordinated with national efforts.
Requirements for Membership:
- Valid mobile phone and email address.
- Age 18 or older.
- Consent to participate.
- Agreement to membership terms, including:
- Promoting understanding and peace.
- Rejecting harmful, tasteless, aggressive, or threatening behavior.
- A zero-tolerance policy for violations (which may result in removal from access).
Funding:
- Self
- in-kind
- Community
- Future: other grants
Planned Features for Social Media Presence:
- Voice, text, and email blast capabilities.
- Chat area with hyperlinks.
- Clear policies for conduct and participation.
- Secure login with username, password, and potentially two-level authorization.
- Ability for members to post anonymously.
- Emergency account cancellation with a board vote within four weeks
- Regular updates to social media
OrLeshalom is a practical solution for addressing the challenges the Jewish community in Central Massachusetts faces in confronting anti-Semitism and anti-Zionism. By providing a communication platform and organizing peaceful, nonviolent actions. OrLeshalom will empower the community to respond strategically and effectively while maintaining positive relationships with existing institutions.
