Rabbi Schneur Z. Oirechman, the executive director of Chabad of Tallahassee and the Panhandle has long led efforts to mandate a moment of silence in Florida’s public schools.
A previous attempt was sidelined “temporarily” last year on a procedural issue, but a new bill has just now been introduced by State Senator Dennis Baxley; if passed the law will come into effect in June, 2021.
The Rebbe began pushing for a moment of silence back in 1983, stressing the need for moral education in all schools. On his birthday in 1984, the Rebbe stated “Th[is] begins with the proper education of the youth, as written: ‘Educate a youth according to his way so that when he grows older he will not depart from it.’ The only way to educate the youth in the ideals of justice and righteousness is not through instilling fear of the police (for then one can think he will outwit the police), but by instilling faith in the Creator and Ruler of the world—that there is ‘an Eye that sees and Ear that hears.’”
The Rebbe added “Another advantage to a ‘Moment of Silence’ specifically is that it will force parents to take part: They will have to tell their child what to think about during the ‘Moment of Silence’—about the Creator and Ruler of the world. Parents will therefore send their child to school equipped not only with physical food but also with spiritual food.”
Currently, a Moment of Silence is either permitted or mandated in 34 states; Rabbi Oirechman is working diligently to make Florida the 35th. He has utilized his many contacts with state senators and representatives, both Jewish and non-Jewish, his personal relationship with the governor (Mr. Ron DeSantis) and his staff, and public relations personnel, to keep this initiative alive.
To continue the Rebbe’s drive, in addition to all its other activities, Chabad of Tallahassee and FSU is currently conducting a critical fundraising campaign. Rabbi Oirechman stressed: “Contributions will ensure that we are able to continue the Rebbe’s struggle for a moment of silence in the second largest Jewish community in America.”
To contribute: www.charidy.com/fsuchabad
I remember going to public school until the late 70’s, in South Florida.
After we pledged allegiance to the flag, the principal would say, “Please remain
standing for a moment of silent meditation.” After a minute or so, the drum roll, then singing of the national anthem.
Apparently, this silent moment must have been done away with soon after I graduated high school. So, B”H, the Rebbe made an effort to restore this important feature of the school curriculum.