The invisibles on both sides of the Atlantic Ocean

By RABBI GUERSHON KWASNIEWSKI, Temple Israel, Cape Town

What are the major problems facing humanity today? Climate change, terrorism, poverty and war.

I come from Brazil, a country with more similarities to South Africa than many imagine.

The Atlantic Ocean bathes our coasts. Brazil was the last country in Latin America to officially abolish slavery – in 1888. It is estimated that between the 16th and 19th centuries, more than three million slaves arrived in the country from Africa to work on sugar plantations, coffee plantations and gold mines.

Brazilian society in the 21st century is an unequal society, and black people have fewer opportunities, earn the lowest wages and some live in extreme poverty. The coloured population throughout history was relegated from public office and often mistreated.

Brazil and South Africa are large countries, rich in natural resources, but both have a large percentage of the population living below the poverty line. This is where the invisible emerge: those who exist but we do not want to see; those who do not have a roof over their heads; who beg at traffic lights; who rummage through garbage; who assault others to survive; who take drugs or drink to endure the cold of the harsh winters.

Recently we had floods in my city and 200 people died, and many are still missing today. A great wave of solidarity arose spontaneously – from one hour to the next the invisible became visible. Assistance centres were set up, with mattresses, pillows, hot showers, meals served, and clothes donated – and for the first time many people were protected by a roof, and received food three times a day. They were given medicines and doctors and nurses were available to take care of them. The tragedy made them visible, and the entire society ended up practising the principles of Tikkun Olam – correction of the world – and Gemilut Hasadim – acts of loving kindness.

Our Jewish values and the fulfilment of mitzvot make us keep in mind the neediest in society throughout the year. The Mandela Day activities with Temple Israel are an example of our community responsibility, a day in which the invisibles become visible.

Temple Israel www.templeisrael.co.za


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