Its often quipped "Two Jews, three opinions". Not when it comes to Hatem Bazian, a man so extreme that the three leading congregational Rabbis in Berkeley, representing the Reform, Conservative and Orthodox movement co-signed a letter in opposition to his appointment as an emergency stand-in for Berkeley Councilperson Cheryl Davila. The latter stated, in part:
“Prof. Bazian has a history of encouraging and personally engaging in speech which is offensive, uncivil and encourages demonization of others, including many citizens of Berkeley”
In spite of the controversy and concern over Bazian's divisive and inflammatory rhetoric Davila has now appointed him to the Berkeley Peace and Justice Commission. Bazian, who once infamously called for an intifada in America is now on a commission tasked with advising the City Council and the School Board "on issues of peace and social justice."
Cheryl Davila is a regular participant in anti-Israel protests on campus, in the streets, and in front of the local Israeli consulate.
Hatem Bazian and anti-Israel activists across the nation donated to Davila's election campaign.
Zaytuna College congratulated Bazian on his appointment.
The local Jewish community is understandably concerned about having a man who recently retweeted anti-Semitic caricatures tasked with advising the city on matters of social justice.
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