By Debbie Mishek, M.D.
SAN DIEGO — Thousands of people gathered at Liberty Station for the March against Hate on Sunday, May 19, in spite of the rainy weather. People came from schools, synagogues, LGBTQ, Federation, and civic institutions to join together. I came with a contingent from Tifereth Israel Synagogue, and was happy to see that more than just Jewish organizations participated.
There was a little music and some speeches. Mostly it was a time for people from the entire Jewish community to reconnect with each other. I saw old friends from other synagogues. There was a sense of excitement and unity in the air.
There was a track/loop that we walked around, which I would estimate was about 2.5 kilometers. It was meant for us to do two laps but because it was raining most people only did one. I persevered with approximately 100 or so who continued their walk. It was fun to walk with friends and see old friends. In all the outing was very positive.
Had the weather been better, more would have lingered.
Tifereth Israel Synagogue’s Rabbi Joshua Dorsch and his wife Stephanie were there with their son Nadav. Some of the congregation’s teens also were there, including Malachai and Jacob Ghitman, and Tara and Maya Kaufman.
Of course, Program Director Beth Klareich, Preschool Director Amy Stanley, and Youth and Education Director Michelle Barbour were there, so Tifereth Israel was well represented.
I had debated about whether or not to go because of the rain but am really glad that I went. It was good to see the San Diego community unite about such an important cause. I left feeling hopeful.
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Debbie Mishek is a pediatrician and religious affairs vice president of Tifereth Israel Synagogue.