Dear congregants,
Judaism is a religion of potency and protest, demanding of us: “What have you done today to promote human dignity?” It teaches that when the atmosphere all around you is brutal, insensitive, degrading, dehumanizing – you are obligated to stand up and speak.
In this spirit, we are deeply troubled by recent immigration policies that are separating children from their parents. The images that have surfaced are profoundly disturbing, and the personal stories are deeply moving. As Jews we are summoned to fight for fairness and human dignity. This is our moment to stand for principle and make a difference.
To that end, I would like to draw your attention to, and urge your participation in, one or more of the following events.
With Stephen Wise Free Synagogue
- World Refugee Day Action – Wednesday, June 20, at 5:30 p.m.
- The Immigration and Refugees Task Force and dozens of refugee rights and faith based organizations will be rallying at Bryant Park at 5:30 p.m. and call to Stop the Refugee Ban, Save Asylum, Defend Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and Keep Children and Families Together. To join us meet outside of Stephen Wise at 5:10 p.m.
- End Family Separation NYC Rally and March – Saturday, June 30, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Stephen Wise members will gather at 9:50 a.m. on the corner of Worth and Lafayette street before joining the rally and march at Foley Square.
- Stephen Wise members will gather at 9:50 a.m. on the corner of Worth and Lafayette street before joining the rally and march at Foley Square.
- Action Night – Tuesday, June 26, at 6:30 p.m.
- Join our Immigration and Refugees Task Force for an Action Night offering a number of concrete ways to take action on this issue and make posters in preparation for Saturday’s march.
Other Action Opportunities
- Mass mobilization at the Brownsville Federal Court in Texas, led by the ACLU – Thursday, June 28, at 11:00 a.m.
- Those interested in travelling to Texas can join the #FamiliesBelongTogether rally in Linear Park at 11 a.m.
- RSVP here or on Facebook and contact Natalie Montelongo at nmontelongo@aclu.org with questions.
