Milton Grafman

Milton Grafman was a prominent American rabbi who dedicated his career to serving the Jewish community in Birmingham, Alabama. He led Temple Emanu-El, a notable congregation in the city, from 1941 to 1975, providing spiritual guidance and leadership for over three decades. During his tenure, Grafman played a significant role in the local community, engaging with issues that affected not only his congregation but also the broader social landscape.

Grafman's involvement in civil rights issues is particularly noteworthy. In response to the Birmingham Campaign, he joined seven other local clergy members in signing a public statement that criticized the movement. This action prompted a notable response from Martin Luther King Jr., who addressed the clergy's concerns in his famous Letter from Birmingham Jail. After retiring from his position at Temple Emanu-El in 1975, Grafman continued to be involved with the congregation, serving as Rabbi Emeritus until his passing in 1995.