Congregation Shaare Zion in Brooklyn Requires Voter Registration for High Holidays Services
In a move that has sparked debate among its congregants, Congregation Shaare Zion in Brooklyn sent out a letter two and a half weeks before the start of the Jewish New Year requiring proof of voter registration to secure seats for High Holidays services. The synagogue's request comes as New York City prepares for its mayoral election on November 4.
According to the letter, congregants must show proof of voter registration by October 1 to ensure seating at the holiest days of the Jewish year. The synagogue cited a desire to "put in our best effort" to avoid a "very serious danger" without specifying what that danger is.
Rabbi David Rosenblatt, Congregation Shaare Zion's senior rabbi, defended the decision, stating, "We want to encourage people to participate in the democratic process. Voting is an essential part of being a responsible citizen." He added that the synagogue has been discussing ways to increase voter registration among its congregants for several years.
Critics, however, argue that the requirement is an overreach by the synagogue. "This is not about voting; it's about control," said Deborah Lauter, executive director of the New York City chapter of the Anti-Defamation League. "By tying attendance at High Holidays services to voter registration, the synagogue is essentially coercing people into participating in a civic activity."
The move has also raised questions about the separation of church and state. "As a place of worship, Congregation Shaare Zion should not be using its influence to promote one particular civic duty over others," said Rabbi Michael Feinberg, a member of the Rabbinical Council of America.
Congregation Shaare Zion's decision is not unprecedented. Some synagogues have been encouraging congregants to register to vote in recent years, but this is the first time a synagogue has made it a requirement for attendance at High Holidays services.
The New York City Board of Elections confirmed that voter registration can be completed online or by mail and that proof of registration will be accepted as identification. The board also stated that it does not have any information about Congregation Shaare Zion's decision to require voter registration.
As the debate continues, congregants are left wondering what this means for their ability to attend High Holidays services. With just over two weeks until the deadline, many are still deciding whether to register to vote in order to secure a seat at the synagogue.
The impact of Congregation Shaare Zion's decision on voter turnout and civic engagement remains to be seen. As one congregant noted, "It's not about the voting; it's about being able to pray together as a community."
*Reporting by Npr.*
