A few days before Rosh Hashanah and Eid ul-Fitr (the holiday concluding Ramadan) I was invited to accompany a group of philanthropists and their Israeli representatives on a tour of the neighborhoods of Jerusalem. More than any other Israeli city, Jerusalem is known for its unique neighborhoods. With over 150 different neighborhoods in both East and West Jerusalem, each one is a distinct part of the mosaic that makes up this city.

Having been conquered 25 times, Jerusalem has known its ups and downs. It is amazing to see how it has endured. Not only has it survived, it is beautiful, graceful, majestic, holy, intricate, but alas, disputed and political.  A walk through the neighborhoods reminds you of the complicated ethnic and religious diversity of the city. From a meeting with young secular artists, both Jewish and Muslim, to a meeting with the Armenian Patriarchate’s representative in the Holy Land, I was struck by the candor and openness of everyone we encountered. Finally in Silwan, we had the opportunity to meet with a group of young Muslim activists working to improve their neighborhood.

As we ended the day, I was reminded of the great privilege I have to be able to live and work in this city. I was also reminded of the enormous responsibility I have, as a citizen of the State of Israel and as a representative of NCJW, to continue to work for freedom of religion for all including women and minorities, for the human rights of all and for the dignity of all Jerusalem’s inhabitants.

For those who celebrate the Jewish New Year, Shana Tova and Gm’ar Chatima Tova.

And for our Muslim friends - As-salamu Alaik-ya, Peace be upon you.