By Midge Levy , , Seattle
I applaud Rabbi Laytner’s letter on the Death with Dignity Initiative (“Freedom of Choice,” Oct. 17) in which he offers alternative views to Rabbi Kletenik’s perspective. Rabbi Laytner addresses the dilemma where prolonging life sometimes prolongs the dying process, which is “unacceptable” to Jewish tradition. He further points out that even if terminally Jews who meet all the conditions decide against using this option, we should support the proposed law so that it is available to the majority of Washingtonians who are non-Jewish.
This is an exemplary view from the executive director of the American Jewish Committee, in keeping with the mission of this organization to advance human rights.
1-1000 offers a choice, enabling a qualified adult to decide for his/herself about the timing of an inevitable death. As Jews, we should recognize the injustice of making decisions that would rule out this option for those of other faiths, whether or not we would choose it for ourselves.