Starting at sunset next Monday, the Jewish community will begin observing Passover, or Pesach. Passover commemorates the escape of the Jews from 400 years of slavery—the exodus story, the master narrative of the Jewish people.

Even if you do not observe Passover, we can all embrace the broader message it carries: the universal pursuit of freedom, peace and dignity for all people. Passover sets the moral guideposts for the Jewish people: the obligation to care for the stranger, the worship of an abstract deity and the idea that every person is sacred, made in the image of God.

In Judaism, it’s not just about freedom from, it’s also about freedom to—freedom to serve. Jews engage in “tikkun olam,” the work of repairing the world, feeling obligated to empathize with the suffering of others and to do something about it. Jews believe that every person is made in the image of God and is therefore worthy of dignity and respect.

Passover also recalls the shared duty to stand for all those who are unable to stand up for themselves. The universality of Passover’s three-part message of freedom, love and justice for all resonates strongly in 2024. These principles are the foundation of democratic governance in the West and our pluralistic society.

Respect for each other, for the rule of law and our democratic institutions are what allow us to live together with people of all religious backgrounds and cultural backgrounds. We cannot condone illegal activities like vandalizing homes, businesses or offices; harassing those who think differently; or forcefully shutting down infrastructure, as these undermine our social order.

For Passover, let me confirm that I support our democratic values, our pluralistic society and the belief in freedom, love and justice that underpins them all.

To all those celebrating, Chag Pesach Sameach.

Props aren’t allowed.