How not to ask for time off on the Jewish holidays

(JTA) — “Hey Allies: Please don’t schedule meetings or events on the Jewish holidays!” So says a meme that has circulated widely before about the dates for Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot and Simchat Torah.

Seems like a pretty harmless and potentially helpful message to post on social media in the run-up to the High Holidays, right?

I’m not so sure.

I, too, have often had to seek special consideration from employers and colleagues for my religious observance. Indeed, being able to live my life by the rhythms of the Hebrew calendar without having to explain myself constantly or play catch-up...