As Reform Jews, we have a moral obligation to hear the cries of and to support our neighbors when they face violence, persecution, discrimination, and oppression. We are called to stand in solidarity with our neighbors in challenging racism in all its forms.
It is our mission to do our part in the work of dismantling systemic racism, seeking to become an anti-racist congregation both individually and collectively.
Initiatives
We seek ways in which we can, as a sacred congregation and in collaboration with the Reform movement, address the issues of race, racism both within our Jewish community and more broadly in the wider community, locally and nationally. We struggled with questions such as:
- How can we, as a Reform Jewish congregation, better confront internalized, systemic racism and become more faithful allies to Communities of Color?
- How can we build a more welcoming, inclusive, and diverse congregation where all, whether member, professional or guest, are treated equitably and with respect?
- How can we collaborate with our members, clergy, professionals, committees, and the wider community through external relationships to better build a culture of action toward equity?
- How can we better address the barriers faced by Jews of Color within our own congregation and the Jewish community?
- How can we align the work of racial justice with our Jewish calendar and with the life of our beloved congregation?
Racial Justice Task Force
A group of concerned Temple members gathered in the summer of 2020 and out of the resulting conversations was borne the Racial Justice Task Force.
All are welcome to join or engage in our work through any or all the following pillars:
- Learning
- Reciprocal Relationships
- Advocacy
- Action
For information about special worship opportunities, programming and events focused on racial justice, watch for notices in the Temple Bulletin, the E-Times and in emails. For even more information about the Racial Justice Task Force or to engage more fully in the work, contact Rabbi Jonathan Cohen, Senior Rabbi, or Pattu London & David Miller, Chairs of the Task Force.
Racial Justice Book Discussion
Join us as we discuss a book per month on various topics related to racial justice and social action.