“Social justice is an important Jewish value and a mitzvah we are called to do over and over again. It reminds us that we are God’s partners in the work of creation. It is profound is when children realize they can do this work, and there is no greater task than helping them to find their voice and their power.” Rabbi Rena Rifkin discusses the pursuit of justice in Jewish tradition, and how we are all capable of making a difference.
“The Supreme Court decision that gave women the power to choose what was best for themselves is once again in jeopardy. Roe v. Wade is about the right to choose, the right to agency.” Rabbi Rena Rifkin tackles choice and equality with this week’s parsha, Matot-Masei, which tells us that women’s vows can be vetoed by their fathers or husbands.
“In order to work towards meaningful change, we must be able to subdue our more destructive impulses.” Rabbi Samantha Natov explains: “Judaism teaches us to look at incorporating change into our lives as a personal practice. It is a process.”
“Our traditions implore us to remember that justice is not merely about being fair in one’s dealings.” As we prepare for Independence Day celebrations, Rabbi Rena Rifkin inspires us to fight through overwhelming obstacles in pursuit of fairness and equality.
“Judaism survived because a privileged and comfortable adult – Pharaoh’s daughter – had compassion on a Jewish refugee child.” Rabbi Ammiel Hirsch references the story of Moses and reminds us of the principles of our founding fathers in response to the humanitarian crisis on our border. “Everything we receive from Jewish tradition pleads with us to get involved.”
“The very connectedness and shrinking of the world – that was supposed to bind us in a common thread of humanity – has isolated us.” Rabbi Ammiel Hirsch responds to an unprecedented mental health crisis in our country.
