11

Before the program concluded, Nelson had the entire audience hold hands and sing a gospel rendition of "We Shall Overcome". For many in both the Black and Jewish communities this was a moment of near catharsis, not only for the noble expression of the lyrics but also for its recreation of that sense of partnership shared by the Black and Jewish communities during the height of the civil rights movement. The moment captured something special ­ not just the sentiment over a glorious time now past. It captured a true sense of what it can feel like to come out of our respective isolation and hold each others hand in an expression of shared hope for a better future for all of us.

12

Joshua Nelson performing at Temple Anshe Sholom.
25 October 2004
Temple Anshe Sholom, 215 Cline Avenue, Hamilton, Ontario


Credits:
Photo Courtesy of Madeleine Levy.