The Toledo Jewish Community and Christian Association

In the past month or so, there has been a lot of controversery concerning the Toledo YMCA and its CEO Robert Alexander.

I find it extremely interesting that Robert Alexander, several of his supporters, and several of his opponents have brought up the Christian religion in their ongoing disagreement that has been very public.

I also found it extremely interesting when I saw costly paid advertising in the local daily newspaper touting the Christian aspect of the Toledo YMCA/JCC.

Quite frankly, I am very dismayed and disgusted in what I perceive as hypocrisy when in comes to the Toledo Jewish Community in its role, or lack thereof, in this whole fiasco as well as in its entire relationship with the Young Mens Christian Association. Why? - you may ask.

Quite simply put, I have a problem with the "cozy" business relationship with the Toledo Jewish Community and the YMCA of Greater Toledo. Together, they are known as the YMCA and JCC of Greater Toledo. Along with my simplistic mindset concerning that business relationship that I personally think is an affront to the intended purpose, philosophy, mission, and goals of each entity, I am troubled by the free use of phrases in the dispute about Christianity. Why has no one mentioned the Jewish Community in all this? Why hasn't the Toledo JCC voiced its position on all this? Why are the leaders of the JCC not being held accountable? Why are the JCC as an entity and its leaders not being called to task?

I say shame on the JCC for being a part of all this. I call upon the Toledo Jewish Community Center to disavow any connection with the YMCA of Greater Toledo. Don't tell me about business concerns. The two organizations should disaffiliate from one another and focus on each of their own individual organization's mission. The Toledo Jewish Community Center should bite the bullet.

Toledo JCC:
Do the right thing! Break the formal ties with the YMCA. Assert your Jewish identity.