AIDS is one of those massive tragedies that ebb in and out of the Western world’s consciousness. The attention peaked in the early 1990s, and has waned ever since. Now it’s back in a ferocious way; it’s even part of Secretary of State Colin Powell’s foreign policy agenda. Some Jews are doing something about all this.
But not enough. About a decade ago, a crush of communal programming, matched by articles in Jewish newspapers, dealt with AIDS. Youth groups were being addressed by AIDS patients; local Jewish AIDS networks were founded. Many such operations still function, but with less attention. In part, such results come from success. Some Americans still suffer and die from related conditions, but preventive education has made a significant impact.
Now AIDS is devastating Africa, a region that rarely gains Jewish focus. My consciousness was jolted a bit during a recent train ride from New York City, while reading a pamphlet entitled “The Crisis Of HIV/AIDS in Africa: A Jewish Response.” Published by the American Jewish World Service, a New York-based operation, it related these chilling statistics: 7,000 African families bury an AIDS victim every day; at least half of the dead are likely to be children; in Zimbabwe, Botswana and Zambia, 30 to 50 percent of pregnant women are HIV-infected; already, 12 million children are orphans due to the AIDS crisis, the majority in Africa. What, one wonders, can we do other than shake our heads and try to make it not happen to us (even as it happens to some but a few miles from our homes)?
The pamphlet reviews Jewish values such as betzelem elohim (every person is created in God’s image), bikur cholim (the imperative to visit the sick), and rodef refuah (the command to pursue healing). It then lists several inspiring biblical and talmudic citations, because, of course, anything can be seen through Jewish eyes.
But how neatly, I thought, it tied into the recent survey by the National Jewish Partnership for Social Justice. That study showed a remarkable number of Jews — 87 percent — believe Jews have a “responsibility” to work on behalf of “the poor, the oppressed and minority groups.” In other words, Jews are interested as individuals in helping others. Check out nearly any volunteer group on Passover and you’ll find a matzah sandwich, I always say. It’s our job to get these people to understand how Jewish their actions are. That builds Jewish identity, which leads to talk of Jewish values. Who knows where it could end?
And something not discussed in the literature is clear. The AIDS plague in Africa is a major focus of national African-American organizations. These groups need allies to lobby for more aid to African countries, push pharmaceutical companies to reduce the cost of medications and, of course, continue to help those around us (including Jews). Local benefits in such joint partnerships are likely. And God knows, Jews could use a few more friends these days while trying to explain Israel’s horrible and complex dilemma in responding to the al-Aksa intifada.
There’s also a hidden capitalist need to be involved. Despite faltering economies, globalization continues to march on. The U.S. needs new markets (read: Africa and Asia) for its products. If a stronger middle class does not rise in those areas, which the massive focus on dealing with and paying for AIDS precludes, those markets will not develop.
Mind you, I’m always leery about promoting individual groups. American Jewish World Service (www.ajws.org) is one of many fighting AIDS, but a central Jewish one. In fact, it coordinates the Jewish Coalition Responding to HIV/AIDS In Africa, and AJWS’ approach is infused with such Jewish energy. Tossing money at a problem isn’t the only answer, but as has been wisely said, it’s a good start.
AJWS wants about $200,000. It will emphasize “prevention, home-based care and income generation and food security for orphans and people living with AIDS.” In return for saving lives, AJWS can bring speakers, special curricula and other information. It’s a good deal. As you consider what to do, reflect on this: Seven thousand caskets were placed into Africa’s soil today. Imagine the numbed tears of those left behind, those who wonder who’s next. Please, be a part of the Jewish response.