Ontario resident wears his political views on his head

Ask, and you shall receive.

This week we ran an article from our Ontario Now blog seeking a yarmulke wearing individual seen at the Oct. 16 Ontario-Montclair School board meeting.

A week later a phone call was made, photos were taken and a couple questions were asked to Michael Weilein, who was indeed wearing the yarmulke, or "Obamaka," as it is called during this political season, is a means of fundraising used by the Jews for Obama organization.

Weilein, 55, of Ontario serves on the Parliamentarian of the County Central Committee of the Democratic Party, the West End Democratic Club in Ontario, as well as Jews for Obama.

He is also a board member of the Jewish Affairs Caucus of the National Education Association.

QUESTIONS: What kind of responses do you get when you're out in the public when people see your yarmulke?
ANSWER: People are taken back by the "Obamaka" -- there are many second looks, many times followed by smiles and "way to go!"

Q: How are Jewish beliefs aligned with presidential candidate Sen. Barak Obama?
A: Sen. Obama's platform is very linked to Jewish beliefs. As Jews, we know that it is our responsibility to care for the needy and support social causes that make a difference in the quality of life for all peoples. The principle of Tikkun Olam, healing the earth, can be seen in our need for personal and communal responsibility for being environmentally responsible, as well as to improve the conditions of others.

Q: Are you afraid of negative comments because this area is conservative?
A: I have no concerns for wearing the "Obamaka" as it is an expression of how I believe that my personal convictions and political outlook really do intersect. On many occasions I have had people ask why I would support an "antisemite" - I explain that Obama is very well versed in Jewish issues and that in fact one of his family members is the President of the Council of Rabbis in Chicago. When addressing Jewish groups, Obama speaks with authority and knowledge of Jewish issues and not in a pandering for votes manner. He truly does understand Jewish issues.

Q: As an Obama supporter are you in the minority among the Jewish community?
A: As part of a larger community that all Jews belong to, as with all things, there are differing opinions. But, when we make contact with fellow supports, we find out that we are not a minority. The establishment of the Jews for Obama Web site is evidence that Jews of all persuasions are united behind the Senator.

Q: What are hot election topics for the Jewish community?
A: Israel - its continued existence and safety is always at the forefront of the concerns for the Jewish people. I personally appreciate Obama's position of being willing to talk with the enemies in the region and not just positioning for war. The Talmud teaches us that war should be a last resort, when diplomacy has definitely failed.