Arik Ascherman Quotes

Arik Ascherman is an American-born Israeli Reform rabbi, and co- founder of the interfaith human rights organization "Haqel-Jews and Arabs in Defense of Human Rights." For 21 years, starting in 1995, he served as Co-Director , Executive Director , Director of Special Projects and President and Senior Rabbi for Rabbis for Human Rights, an Israeli organization. As a human rights activist, he has spearheaded protests to defend Palestinians against Israeli settler violence, worked for socioeconomic justice for Israelis, and advocated on behalf of Israel's Bedouin citizens. He has often put himself at physical risk, and several times stood trial for acts of civil disobedience. He appears in the 2010 documentary Israel vs Israel. Wikipedia

✵ 1959

“I agree that those of us who believe we are pursuing justice must always ask ourselves about our own methods. It also occurs to me that, although we must strive to pursue justice in ways that win over even those who initially disagree with us, we must continue to pursue justice even when we are vilified. Both of these interpretations are relevant in this month of Elul, leading up to the High Holy Days. We recall that our deeds are our most important defending and prosecuting attorneys before the Holy One of Blessing during this season of judgement and introspection. Yet, we also know that we have earthly supporters and detractors. We should never let support blind us, or become a substitute for continuing to be both self-critical, and dedicated to our goals. We should not be dissuaded by our critics, but we should be able to honestly ask ourselves if there is anything to learn from them. Hopefully, the fact that sympathizers and critics are taking notice means that we are actually doing something.”

Arik Ascherman

Pursue Justice Whether You Are Praised, or Vilified https://blogs.timesofisrael.com/pursue-justice-whether-you-are-praised-or-vilified/ (September 6, 2019), The Times of Israel.