Amidst the pain and self-reflection being experienced by the Jewish community in the face of the controversy over Rabbi Jonathan Rosenblatt, I would like to take a moment to acknowledge the courage and steadfastness of Yehuda Kurtzer, who brought this issue out from darkness to the light of open discussion (“With Sauna ‘Secret’ Out, Riverdale Shul Faces Tough Choices,” June 5).
As a psychologist treating patients for many years, including many victims of abuse, I know that Yehuda Kurtzer’s willingness to speak out [first in The New York Times] will bring validation and healing to many who have suffered in confusion and silence. It is unfortunate that Rabbi Rosenblatt, although he regrets if anyone was “inadvertently offended” and apologizes to “those affected,” still doesn’t seem to accept or acknowledge that his behavior was in any way inappropriate or wrong. He maintains that others might see it that way, but holds on to the idea that because it was never his intention to cause harm, that it was innocent.
Unfortunately, in cases of confused boundaries of intimacy, such intentions are not sufficient. One can only hope that the entire Jewish community will use this time to improve our understanding, training programs and treatment venues for these issues, particularly with regards to the rabbinate.
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