Yesterday it was reported that the South African Zionist Federation and other religious bodies had participated in the decision to bar Richard Goldstone from attending his grandson’s bar mitzvah. The JTA said that Goldstone was "pressured" into agreeing not to attend. Wire services reports:
An agreement with the family, that Goldstone would not be in attendance at the synagogue service, was reached after negotiations between the SAZF and the Sandton Shul, where the event is due to take place. Avrom Krengel, chairman of the SAZF, who was reportedly not keen to reveal much, said: "We understand there’s a barmitzvah boy involved – we’re very sensitive to the issues; at this stage there’s nothing further to say."
While Krengel said the SAZF had interacted on the matter with the chief rabbi and others, his organisation was "coming across most forcefully because we represent Israel". Goldstone was reluctant to reveal further details, and is reported to have said: "In the interests of my grandson, I’ve decided not to attend the ceremony at the synagogue."
This decision was so shocking that the South African religious leadership is now backing away from any responsibility in the matter. Thus Zev Krengel, national chairman of the Jewish Board of Deputies. Notice the prevarication near the end of the statement:
Dear Community Member
It has been widely reported in the media that Judge Richard Goldstone has been barred from attending his grandson’s barmitzvah as a result of pressure from certain sectors of the Jewish leadership. While it has not been involved in this matter, the SA Jewish Board of Deputies was concerned that it would turn into a divisive issue within the Jewish community, and has therefore carefully investigated it to establish the correct facts.
What has emerged is that, contrary to what many media reports alleged, at no time was Judge Goldstone prohibited from, or even requested, not to attend the bar mitzvah ceremony by any organisation or individual. Rather, this was a decision voluntarily taken by the Goldstone family and the other respective parties. Certain senior Jewish communal and religious leaders were certainly involved in the discussions around the topic, but in no way did they attempt to dictate to or otherwise pressurize the family into arriving at their decision.
… At the same time, the right to freedom of expression needs at all times to be exercised with sensitivity, with due regard to the appropriateness of the forum and occasion. Taking into account, with due sensitivity and understanding, the feelings of others goes a long way towards preventing unnecessary conflict.
Wishing you all a Shabbat Shalom.
ZEV KRENGEL NATIONAL CHAIRMAN
