Arrival of Hasidic Jews in Postville, Iowa

In 1987, Postville, Iowa became the new home for a group of Hasidic Jews. The customs and traditions upheld by the individuals in this group were viewed as countercultural by many of the residents of Postville. In response to this problem, local policy makers introduced a referendum in 1997 that would prohibit the Jews from living in the town. Bloom (2000) in his analysis of the problems that developed in Pottsville, Iowa demonstrates that there were two definitive sides to this issue. First the citizens of Postville needed to determine if they could be more flexible in their views on culture and religion and live with the Hasidic Jews. Second, the Jewish community needed to determine if it could be more flexible in its rules and practices, especially those that had nothing to do with religion.

Consideration of the Facts

Clearly, the arrival of the Jews in Postville was quite a cultural shock to the community. As noted by Bloom the population of the community was less than 1,500. Further all individuals in the town were white Christians with similar religious, cultural and social backgrounds. As described by Bloom, Postville was the picture of a town that had not been touched by modernization or urbanization. Postville appears to represent a more relaxed pace of life in which community strength and pride is a notable characteristic for development. Thus, it is not surprising to find that when the Jews arrived in Postville, notable tensions developed between the townspeople and these new "outsiders."

What is perhaps most interesting about the tensions that developed between the citizens of Postville and the Jewish is that, while the Jewish were simply living their lives as they always had, the cultural and religious differences that existed between the two groups made many of the citizens of Postville uncomfortable. Although many of the differences between the two groups could be explained through religious practices, Bloom notes that some of the practices undertaken by the Jewish community were cultural in nature. For instance, male children of Hasidic Jews did not cut their hair before the age of three. This is a distinct religious practice followed by families in this community. However, the Jewish community had grown accustomed to fast-paced city life. As such, when this group first arrived in Postville, they appeared to be annoyed by the slower pace of life that existed in the community.

When examined in this context, it seems reasonable to argue that both the citizens of Postville and members of the Hasidic community can employ some degree of flexibility toward creating community integration and assimilation. While it is evident that the citizens of Postville will have to come to accept many of the religious practices that are used by the Hasidic Jews, it is evident that members of the Jewish community could do more to improve their relationships with residents of the town. As such, in order to improve this situation some amount of give and take will be necessary from both parties. Unless both groups are willing to work together, it will be difficult for the town to grow together as a cohesive community.

Possible Solutions

With the realization the changes need to be made on both sides, it seems reasonable to argue that the town of Postville should consider providing residents with basic information about the town's newest citizens. Information could be disseminated though town meetings or through teaching about the Hasidic Jewish culture in the schools. Further, the town could provide the Jewish community with the opportunity to provide information about their culture and religion. This could be accomplished through a weekly column in the local newspaper. By providing the residents of Postville with a clear understanding of the cultural and religious differences that exist in the Hasid community, the residents will have the education that they need to open their minds and understand the beauty and importance of diversity.

While it is evident that the residents of Postville must become more flexible in their understanding of diversity and cultural and religious differences, it is also evident that the Hasid community must also consider what steps it can take to improve community relations in the town. Even though it is quite evident that many of the traditions and customs employed by the Jews cannot be changed due to religious mandates, it is evident that the community could be more open to working with the residents of Postville. Perhaps the Hasid community could consider sponsoring local community events to demonstrate their willingness to work with community members and leaders. Further, the Hasid community could consider taking steps to ensure that they are not physically isolated from the rest of the town-i.e. they could provide support for local merchants in the town or chose to live in homes that are integrated into the larger community.

Clearly, what this proposal suggests is that both communities need to work together in order to develop a partnership that will enable them to live together in the community. Education, understanding and flexibility on the part of both groups will go a long way toward reducing the tensions that have been caused as a result of this culture clash. When residents of Postville and members of the Hasid community are able to see that they are all human and all have the same desires and needs, they will be able to more effectively relate to one another. Communication and integration are critical issues that need to be taken into consideration when it comes to this process of development. Both sides must be willing to work together to understand one another and create the mutual trust and respect that is needed to ensure harmony in the community.

Reference

Bloom, S.G. (2000). Postville: A Clash of Cultures in Heartland America. Orlando, FL: Harcourt.