Moscow Letter - 05.30.2001

 

 

Moscow Celebration Evokes, Memories, Progress, Challenges

Dear Friend,

Two weeks ago I had the privilege and honor to participate in a most moving experience in Moscow.  The Russian Jewish Congress and KEROOR (Congress of Jewish Religious Communities and Organizations) celebrated the renovation of the Moscow Choral Synagogue exterior and the laying of the cornerstone for the new Jewish Community Center across the street.  Many international and Russian dignitaries participated in this event, including Moscow Mayor Yuri Luzhkov, the American and Israeli Ambassadors to the Russian Federation, and the Chief Rabbi of Israel.

Standing on the stage, bringing a message of support from the organized American Jewish community, was a much different experience than the first time I traveled to Moscow nearly 20 years ago.  In January 1982, I stood across the street from the Choral Synagogue in solidarity with Jewish activists and refuseniks who would not enter the Synagogue because it was under the control of the Soviet government.  Fast forward to May 16, 2001: Seeing Jews from across Russia and the former Soviet Union, gathering to celebrate and not to protest, brought forth a wealth of emotions in me.  As I delivered my remarks, I looked upward to see the restored dome and Star of David atop the synagogue.  All I could think of was how far we have come, how much we have accomplished – yet how fragile the current environment is, and how much more we need to do in order to cement the gains that have been achieved.

I carried with me messages of support from both houses of the United States Congress. These statements illustrated the link that has existed for more than three decades between our Members of Congress and the Jews of the former Soviet Union.  Congressional support has been and remains a bipartisan effort, knowing no ideological boundaries. 

In the evening, there was a concert and fireworks display attended by thousands of Jews who were singing and dancing to Hebrew and Yiddish songs.  Again, to see so many young people enjoying themselves, identifying as Jews in a place that holds such bittersweet memories for their elders, is truly remarkable. 

Best wishes,

Mark B. Levin
Executive Director