Faith In Liberty: Support Democracy in Iran

Judaism was born with the Exodus and the concept of liberty. We've already discussed how Jethro presented the concept of representational government to his son-in-law, Moses, in the Sinai Desert. We remember our escape from Egyptian bondage and our gaining liberty each year at Passover. We are instructed to think as if we ourselves participated in the Exodus and found freedom in the desert. As such, Jews have historically been among the strongest advocates of human rights and liberty for all citizens of the world. We must again step up and help those struggling for democracy in Iran. President Obama has been hesitant. We must not! The stakes are too high and we may never get another chance in the near future. Remember Tiennamen Square? Here's some ideas of how you can support the protesters demanding freedom in Iran:

1) Display green banners and ribbons this July 4th to show our support for the Iranians, as we celebrate America's Independence Day.

2) Tomorrow (June 26th) at 1pm Tehran time, Iranian protestors will be releasing green balloons into the sky. We should join them by releasing a green balloon wherever you are at the same time.

3) Contact the White House and your Congressional representatives and demand they speak up and do more. The Jewish vote in America is important to them.

4) Organize efforts with your synagogue and local civic groups to help the Iranian demonstrators.

5) If you plan to attend one of the scheduled July 4th Tea Parties, speak out for liberty for America and Iran.

6) Join one, or several of the Democracy in Iran forums showing up on sites like Facebook and Twitter. Then speak out and share ideas!

I know if you're like me, you've been disappointed and disheartened by the weak response of our American government in supporting the protestors in Iran. But instead of giving up, we must learn from the Iranian's themselves. We must make their cause our own and speak out. It's good for Iran, Israel and America.

Jews have a historical connection to Iran that's deeper than most other countries. We've lived their for over 2500 years, the "annointed" King Cyrus the Great released us from captivity in Babyon and it's likely that the Garden of Eden was located in northwest Iran. They are our brothers and sisters and need our help. Please join me. Thanks.

Until next time....

Shmuel