At a time when political discourse feels more divided than ever, Congregation Shaare Emeth’s Jewish values and politics debate offers the St. Louis Jewish community an opportunity to come together for civil dialogue.
On Sunday, Sept. 15, the congregation will host “Eilu v’Eilu: A Debate on Jewish Values & American Politics” featuring Rabbi David Saperstein, former U.S. Ambassador for International Religious Freedom under President Barack Obama, and Tevi Troy, a presidential historian and former senior aide in the George W. Bush administration. This debate, part of Shaare Emeth’s “Eilu v’Eilu” series, is rooted in the Jewish tradition of principled disagreement.
Although Saperstein and Troy do not agree on many policy issues, they share a strong friendship, demonstrating that civil discourse can flourish despite political differences. Attendees can expect to hear Saperstein and Troy share their views on pressing issues such as Israel, abortion, civil rights, religious freedom, and climate change. Both will also draw on Jewish law, history, and values to provide context and insight into these contemporary challenges.
A Notable Lineup: Saperstein and Troy Take the Stage
Saperstein’s role as a longtime advocate for civil rights and religious freedom makes him a compelling voice in today’s heated political landscape. His career includes working with major figures in the American Civil Rights Movement, such as Martin Luther King Jr., and his tenure at the Religious Action Center solidified his status as one of the most influential figures in Jewish public policy.
Meanwhile, Troy’s extensive experience in the Bush administration and his role as a historian provide a conservative counterpart to Saperstein’s progressive stances. Troy has written extensively on presidential history and Jewish political engagement, making him a knowledgeable and seasoned participant in the discussion.
Looking Ahead to the Weekend of Thoughtful Dialogue
In addition to Sunday night’s debate, the weekend will offer other opportunities to hear from Saperstein. On Friday, Sept. 13, he will give a D’var Torah during Shaare Emeth’s Kabbalat Shabbat services, reflecting on the lasting impact of Oct. 7 and the ongoing war in Gaza. On Saturday morning, Sept. 14, Saperstein will lead a Torah study focused on the resurgence of antisemitism, a topic that is deeply personal to many in the Jewish community.
For those interested in attending, registration for the Sept. 15th debate is required and can be completed online.
Eilu v’Eilu is generously co-sponsored by Congregation Temple Israel, Jewish Community Relations Council of St. Louis (JCRC), Jewish Federation of St. Louis, MaTovu, NCJWSTL, Temple Emanuel, United Hebrew Congregation, and WashU Hillel.
The programs with Rabbi David Saperstein and Dr. Tevi Troy are also supported by the Fred and Elsie Deutsch Endowment Fund of Congregation Shaare Emeth. The Congregation would like to thank Roberta and Jim Deutsch, Judy and Larry Deutsch, and their families for their generous support for the Scholar-in-Residence program.
