Gun Responsibility
In 2014, Ballot Initiative I-594—establishing universal background checks, including for private gun sales in Washington—passed by an overwhelming 59.7% majority, while the counter-initiative to block background checks failed resoundingly.
In the lead-up to the election, TBT educated its members and actively advocated for the initiative. Reform congregations across the state, including TBT, marched alongside a diverse coalition of interfaith partners from the Seattle area to the King County Administration Building to cast their ballots together.
The issue of gun violence hits home: one of TBT’s past presidents, Pam Waechter z"l, was a victim of gun violence in 2006. While serving as the Director of Annual Giving at the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle, she was gunned down in her office by a man who spewed anti-Israeli sentiments.
Rachel Laser, Deputy Director of the Religious Action Center for the Union for Reform Judaism, wrote in the Huffington Post: “Each of us—gun owner or not—has an obligation to combat this national epidemic. As Reform Jews, we feel a particular responsibility. We take to heart the words we read in the book of Exodus that command: ‘Thou shalt not kill.’ ”
Keeping abreast of current advocacy work underway in our state and nation by Jewish organizations, we plan to continue our own discussions and advocacy in this area.
In Loving Memory of Pamela Waechter, Z"l
by Michele Rosen, Jewish Women's Archive
Pam Waechter, of blessed memory, Director of Annual Giving at the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle and beloved member of Temple B'nai Torah, died in the line of service. Tragically she was gunned down in her office by a madman who spewed anti-Israeli sentiments. She leaves behind two beloved children, a devoted group of loving friends, and a heartbroken community.
Pam was raised a Lutheran in Minneapolis. She became a Jew by choice when she married her husband, Bill Waechter. The couple moved to Seattle and later divorced.
Pam was a woman who just did what she said she was going to do. Her accomplishments were many: President of Temple B'nai Torah, Regional Officer of the Reform Movement, early organizer and supporter the Jewish Family Service's Food Bank, cook for a women's shelter, Director of Outreach at the Jewish Federation, Event Coordinator for the Jewish Federation, and Director of Annual Giving at the Federation.
Pam's approach to work mirrored her approach to life. She was direct and comforting. If something did not work out, try another door—another avenue. Be calm, yet be persistent. Look people in the eye and let them know they are valued.
We are shocked and very sad in Seattle to be the target of such hate. And we need Pam Waechter to help us through these terrible days.
May her memory and her generous spirit remain with us all.
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