Orthodox Union OU Kosher + Politics = TREIF 

Unity in Diversity: Why the Orthodox Union (OU) Symbol Should Transcend Politics

As Jews, we are called to embrace unity while respecting our diversity. Our tradition teaches that at Mount Sinai, the Israelites stood “as one person with one heart” to receive the Torah. 

Recent actions by the Orthodox Union (OU) to become involved in political matters (1) threaten to undermine this delicate balance. The Orthodox Union (OU) kosher certification symbol should remain above the fray of partisan politics, serving as a unifying force for Jews across the political spectrum.

“Orthodox Union will have a budget of $250,000, two dedicated staffers, and an untold number of volunteers.”

“the program seems aimed at moving Jewish voters into the Republican column.“

Our sacred texts emphasize the importance of Jewish unity. The Midrash teaches that the Jewish people are compared to a bundle of reeds – when bound together, they cannot be broken. The Talmud states that all Jews are responsible for one another. These teachings highlight that our strength lies in our solidarity, not our divisions.\

At the same time, Judaism values diversity of thought. The Talmud records vigorous debates between the schools of Hillel and Shammai, concluding that “both these and those are the words of the living God”. We are not meant to think or act uniformly, but to engage respectfully with different perspectives.

The Orthodox Union (OU) symbol on food products represents this unity in diversity. It allows Jews of varied backgrounds and beliefs to share meals together, fostering connection across differences. By remaining non-political, the Orthodox Union (OU) can continue to serve as a bridge between different Jewish communities.

Involving kosher certification in partisan issues risks further fragmenting our already divided people. It could lead to competing kosher symbols aligned with different political views, making it harder for Jews to eat together and find common ground.

Instead, we should focus on what unites us as Jews – our shared heritage, values, and commitment to making the world a better place. As Rabbi Jonathan Sacks taught, we can have “unity without uniformity”[5]. We can disagree on political matters while still recognizing our fundamental bond as Am Yisrael, one people.

The Orthodox Union (OU) should concentrate on its core mission of ensuring kashrut, leaving political advocacy to other Jewish organizations. This will allow it to continue serving as a unifying force, bringing Jews together around the Shabbat table and beyond.

In these polarized times, we need symbols of Jewish unity more than ever. Let the Orthodox Union (OU) certification remain a reminder that what connects us is far greater than what divides us. Through respectful dialogue and a focus on our shared values, we can transcend political differences and work together to fulfill our divine mission as a “light unto the nations.”

(1)  https://www.huffpost.com/entry/orthodox-jewish-pennsylvania-turnout-campaign_n_66e75244e4b0da0e8515d005