Related Blog Posts on Civil Liberties, Racial Justice, Civil Rights & Voting Rights, Protecting Civil Rights, Shabbat, Racial Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion, Jewish History, and Secular Holidays

The author at a protest holding up a sign that reads "March Proudly"
Racial Justice

Year One Reflection: The First Jews of Color Cohort

Israel Harris
 August 15, 2022
As the Racial Justice LA, my work is rooted in my belief systems and experiences as a JOC. Not only do I get to be the person I never saw growing up, but I hope to help create more opportunities for those like me in the future. And as I finish up my first year at the RAC, I am eager to make my mark as I continue my work for another year to advocate to end the death penalty, pass legislation to study reparations for Black Americans, expand and protect the right to vote for all as we approach the primaries, and push for true policing reform. Those who are disproportionately harmed by these issues don’t have the benefit of growing up in communities who claim to be color blind. The world sees and treats us differently.
four blocks that spell out the word hope
Racial Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion

Finding Hope

fredi Bleeker Franks
 June 28, 2022
Thursday night's passage of a bi-partisan gun bill filled me with hope, even as the Supreme Court ruled against New York, which forces some states to actually loosen their gun regulations.
man playing guitar
Fourth of July

Practicing Democracy

Jacob Kraus-Preminger
 June 28, 2022
As we reflect on the United States' Independence Day, I am mindful that democracy also takes commitment and practice. Democracy takes practice because it still is not accessible to all.
members of RAC-MA posed in a group photo at the launch event
Voting Rights

Four Lessons from the Launch of RAC-Massachusetts

Rabbi Neil P.G. Hirsch
 June 14, 2022
On Sunday, June 12, 2022, congregants and clergy from over twenty Reform synagogues gathered at Temple Shalom of Newton for the launch of RAC-Massachusetts, the Religious Action Center’s ninth and newest statewide project. The room had an energy I haven’t felt since before the pandemic, reminding everyone there what can happen when we are in community.
dairy products on wheat field table torah symbols
Jewish Learning

Favorite Jewish Teachings from Leaders of Color

Yolanda Savage-Narva
 June 2, 2022
As Shavuot approaches and we celebrate the Giving of the Torah, I have been spending some time reflecting on some of my favorite teachings from Jewish sacred literature, both those that resonate with me, and those that feel most important or most timely.
Racial Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion

Pride 2022: Celebrating and Fighting for LGBTQ+ Equality in June and Beyond

Rachel Klein
 May 27, 2022
In the story of creation, the first story we read in the Torah, we learn that every person is created b'tzelem Elohim - in the holy image of God (Genesis 1:27). Discrimination against any person arising from apathy, insensitivity, ignorance, fear, or hatred is inconsistent with this fundamental belief. It is this principle that guides that Reform Movement's advocacy for LGBTQ+ equality.
Voting Rights

Every Voice, Every Vote and Reproductive Rights Update

Barbara Weinstein
 May 17, 2022
On Tuesday evening, we launched the Reform Movement's Every Voice, Every Vote campaign, our nonpartisan initiative to strengthen democracy by encouraging and protecting voter participation. As if this effort was not urgent enough already, the leaked draft Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v Jackson Women's Health Organization made clear that every issue of importance to our Movement is on the ballot this year, including abortion rights.
Progressive Pride Flag
Racial Equity, Diversity, & Inclusion

Trans Day of Visibility is Just a Start

Cantor Sheri Allen
Preston Max Allen
 March 29, 2022
For a community relentlessly targeted by hateful legislation, this year’s Transgender Day of Visibility (celebrated on March 31) holds a heightened sense of urgency. I am ashamed to say that this day wasn’t even on my radar until I had a personal stake in it, but it now holds a special place of significance in my family.