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"This Is Not Politics, This Is Conscience" — A Conversation with Rabbi Ammos Chorny
07/16/2025
"This Is Not Politics, This Is Conscience" — A Conversation with Rabbi Ammos Chorny
In this powerful episode of Searching for Common Ground, Rabbi Mark Perman and his wife Elizabeth are joined by Rabbi Ammos Chorny for a deeply thought-provoking discussion about conscience, moral clarity, and the urgent responsibility to speak out in the face of injustice. Drawing from his published statement with the Rabbinical Assembly, Rabbi Chorny reflects on the troubling parallels between historical persecution and today’s treatment of immigrants and minorities in the U.S. With a rich background in military chaplaincy, international scholarship, and interfaith leadership, Rabbi Chorny speaks candidly about what compelled him to denounce the proposed detention facility in the Everglades — which he refers to as the “Alligator Alcatraz” — and the broader moral implications of silence, scapegoating, and governmental overreach. This episode explores: What Judaism teaches about the stranger, justice, and moral responsibility The dangers of repeating history by vilifying minority communities The balance between prophetic leadership and pulpit neutrality How we can advocate for compassion, justice, and human dignity in divisive times Rabbi Chorny reminds us that speaking up for others is not political — it’s a sacred obligation rooted in shared humanity. 🕊️ “Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor.” — Elie Wiesel 🔗 To read Rabbi Chorny’s full piece, visit This episode is made possible by our sponsor: Andrew K. Coffman Funeral Home, Inc. Address: 40 E Antietam Street, Hagerstown, MD 21740 Phone: 301-739-1444 Serving the Hagerstown community with compassion, dignity, and respect
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