FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

January 31, 2017

Media contact:

Joel Marcovitch, CEO

Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo

(419) 724-0372

Statement on Executive Order signed by President Trump regarding immigration restrictions

The Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo and the Jewish Community Relations Council are troubled by the recent Executive Order against refugees looking to come to the USA to escape the horrors of their war-torn countries.

Historically, we are a country of immigrants who came to these shores to escape the horrors of war, to seek religious freedom, and to earn better opportunities for our families and succeeding generations.

Jews have made innumerable contributions to American culture, arts, entertainment, science, government and more areas, and continue to do so.

There were times when Jews were turned away from these shores. Like Moses, who saw the land and was not allowed to enter, we pray for those who wish to come here and live in peace, but are denied safe harbor.

We urge President Trump and his administration to come to a resolution soon and to allow another generation of future citizens to add their uniqueness to the melting pot that is America.

"You shall not wrong nor oppress a stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt." (Exodus22:20)

Signed,                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    

Gary Delman

President, JFGT

Scott Rothstein

Chair, JCRC