The passing of Thurgood Marshall is a great loss for all Americans. But for the Jewish community, the loss is especially sharp and poignant. The NJCRAC had a special affection for Justice Marshall. In many ways, Thurgood Marshall articulated for all of us the vocabulary of civil rights, civil liberties, freedom of expression, and the separation of church and state. Justice Marshall, as much as any, and perhaps more than most other members of the High Court, understood the true purpose and function of the Bill of Rights: the protection of majorities and individuals; the protection of the state and individuals.

 

Thurgood Marshall understood that the Bill of Rights said, “We are there for you,” and if the institutions of government failed the individual or the minority group, Justice Marshall said, “I am there for you.” Justice Marshall taught these things to generations of Americans.

 

In the Jewish tradition the most revered leaders have been the teachers. The death of a great teacher is a universal tragedy.

 

May the memory of Thurgood Marshall be a blessing to all of us whom he taught.

 

-end-

Share

Next Up:

Opposition to Discrimination on the Basis of Sexual Orientation

Take Action Donate

July 15, 2025

Protected: JCRC Pros Listserv

July 14, 2025

JCPA Urges NEA to Reject Divisive Resolution, Reaffirms Commitment to Working Together to Confront Antisemitism and Hate

July 14, 2025

Jewish Council for Public Affairs Alarmed by SCOTUS Allowing Trump Admin to Gut DOE

July 10, 2025

Holding Space in the Middle, Fighting for Democracy and Against Antisemitism

July 4, 2025

JCPA CEO Amy Spitalnick Condemns President Trump’s Use of Antisemitic Slur

July 3, 2025

Reconciliation Bill Promotes Cruel, Morally Bankrupt Vision for America

June 19, 2025

JCPA Summit 2025

June 14, 2025

JCPA Statement on Political Violence Targeting MN Elected Officials

June 13, 2025

Protected: JCPA Summit 2025 | Resources

June 10, 2025

Identity/Crisis Podcast: Hate Crimes in the Name of Resistance – with Amy Spitalnick