Re: kol isha in action

[MaxwellSt]

In a message dated 2/21/2003 10:07:21 AM Central Standard Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: Why is there "uncomfortness" more important that the uncomfortness of those who oppose it or are subjected to the discrimination? This is a discussion that comes up annually--maybe it would be good to archive it for the benefit of those who want to see past discussions. I submit--as a woman who was not raised in an Orthodox home or with those sensibilities--that it is no more discriminatory to respect Kol Isha at a mixed gathering than to serve kosher food.  Unless we wish to drive out all the Jews who observe halacha from our simchas, we can't put out a large Unwelcome mat in the form of violations of the law.  A workable solution, I think, is to observe Kol Isha for the first 2 hours of the simcha, and then to permit it (and mixed dancing)--telling the frum guests in advance that this will be the format.  The frum guests will have a chance to eat and fulfill their mitzvah of dancing at the simcha before leaving, and the non-Orthodox will have their wishes respected in the latter half.  This is the way we do most of our "mixed" simchas. [EMAIL PROTECTED]