An Election on a Jewish Holiday: A Challenge to Overcome

When I learned that the Pennsylvania Primary Election would be held on May 18, I was frustrated.

A quick glance at a calendar won’t sound alarms for the vast majority of Pennsylvanians. That’s because many calendars miss the Jewish holiday of Shavuot.

For Orthodox and traditionally Sabbath observant Jews like myself, May 18, the second day of Shavuot, means no writing, no driving or taking buses, no working. And that means no travel to the polls. No careful darkening of ovals with blue or black ink. Instead, thousands of Pennsylvanians will be swaying in holiday prayer, enjoying festive meals with family and celebrating the giving of the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai.

Continue reading at the Pittsburgh Jewish Chronicle

The words of this author reflect his/her own opinions and do not necessarily represent the official position of the Orthodox Union.