Local Interfaith Statement on Immigrant Justice

Welcoming the stranger, or immigrant, is a core part of Jewish tradition, mentioned 36 times in the Torah. Leviticus commands, “The stranger who resides with you shall be to you as one of your citizens; you shall love them as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt” (19:33-34). Our own people’s history as “strangers” reminds us of the many struggles faced by immigrants today and we affirm our commitment to create the same opportunities for today’s immigrants that were so valuable to our own community not so many years ago.

In conjunction with the pursuit of a just and humane immigration system, Rabbi Wilfond joined a group of local clergy and faith leaders from Andover and neighboring communities in issuing a joint interfaith statement calling for compassion, dignity, and solidarity with immigrants and refugees, drawing on shared religious traditions that emphasize welcoming those seeking safety and belonging. Read the press release below.