Moses Michael Hays, Jewish Patriot

In 1775, Moses Michael Hays was a thriving businessman in the city of Newport, Rhode Island, and a leader at his synagogue. He supported the Revolution and the cause of freedom.  Then, the leaders of the Revolution made a request.  They asked 76 men in Newport – the community leaders - to sign a declaration of loyalty to the American Colonies. Moses Michael Hays believed fully in the cause.  But the declaration included the phrase “upon the true faith of a Christian.”

What should Moses Michael Hays do? He believed in the declaration in principle but he also was a committed Jew.  Most importantly, he wanted to make sure the new country respected freedom of religion. He refused to sign the Declaration. Instead, he wrote a public letter supporting the Revolution and his reason for not signing. He wanted freedom of religion to be central in new nation and knew that signing the Declaration, in addition to being disingenuous, would set a poor precedent. The Revolutionary leaders listened to Moses Michael Hays’ argument and, after quite a bit of discussion, they agreed.  The phrase was removed.  Moses Michael Hays gladly signed.

Moses Michael Hays went onto to found the Bank of Massachusetts and lead the Masonic Temple in Boston – with a silversmith named Paul Revere as his deputy.

I share this story this Fourth of July week for three reasons. 

First, we should be proud of lengthy Jewish heritage in the United States.  The first Jews arrived in New Amsterdam in 1654.  We’ve been here since the beginning, stating our opinion and being involved in communal affairs.  May that always continue.

Second, we should never take our country’s freedom of belief for granted. Our ancestors fought for it and it should be prized. Moses Michael Hays helped set a precedent which we still cherish today – to freely follow one’s religion of choice or no religion at all.

And, lastly, it took a lot of courage for Moses Michael Hays to take a stand.  He stood separate from 75 other men and expressed his minority view and identity.  He presented his viewpoint eloquently and respectfully and firmly.  And people listened.  May we always have such tenacity.  And may we always experience – and have – such respect for others.