I have always felt a strong sense of family when in Jewish spaces. Yet, my life experience has taught me that it is through the encounters with people of different backgrounds who have unique stories that the direction we take is shaped. This idea has helped me to no longer ask about what I deserve in life, but rather how I can use my privilege to give back to others. The same drive is what led me to apply to the Eisendrath Legislative Assistant Fellowship at the Religious Action Center - a unique opportunity to make a difference not many people believe is possible.

We are excited to dive into our work as the 2021-2022 Eisendrath Legislative Assistants! We bring a diverse set of interests and experiences to the RAC but share a deep commitment to the pursuit for a more just, compassionate, and equitable world. We are proud to represent and join the Reform Movement and its values in this crucial moment in history.  

My experience with the RAC Teen Racial Justice Fellowship was so amazing. I learned so many skills that were applicable to several different aspects of my life.

Democracy is, indeed, a promise we renew not just on election day, but every day. Democracy does not exist independent of our contributions to it. Citizens and immigrants, voters, and presidents – all of us build democracy.

Through this fellowship, I learned about community organizing and the many challenges involved. Civic engagement is difficult, but this was definitely a great learning experience and made me a more confident community organizer.

As our society navigates unprecedented challenges, we are eager to join in the pursuit of justice that is integral to the Reform Movement.

The world has changed significantly since the RAC concluded our 2019-2020 L’Taken Social Justice Seminar season in early March. After 2,000 high school students came to Washington D.C. and successfully lobbied their members of Congress, the RAC staff tallied up the results of the teens’ efforts.

Avi Holzman, right, and two friends in Israel during the URJ’s Heller High program in Israel.

This past spring, I was fortunate enough to spend four months in Israel on the URJ’s Heller High program.

Read issue portfolios and bios from previous LA classes here.