Synopses & Reviews
Our increasingly globalized reality compels us to take
responsibility for people around the world. But we can't let
concern for places other than our own absolve us of
responsibility for the places closer to home. As Jews
committed to repairing the world, we also need to commit
to doing social justice work as Jews in the places we live.
In this important and practical look at social justice
work from a Jewish perspective, Rabbi Jill Jacobs
examines the ideological basis for organizing explicitly
Jewish responses to social justice issues in our communities.
She explores how we define our communities and
how they compare to Jewish visions of the ideal city.
She provides practical tips for involving synagogues,
schools and other institutions in effective social justice
work while strengthening their own communities. She
also addresses how to balance our responsibilities to
transform our communities into effective engines of
justice with our responsibilities to other places.
Each chapter includes an exploration of related
Jewish texts and secular wisdom, as well as a guide to
implementing the relevant strategies in your congregation.
Synopsis
How can Jewish values inform our work to create a just world--and help us work together for the good of all communities?
"Somehow, most Jews have decided that being a 'good Jew' means adhering to rituals such as Shabbat, kashrut, and prayer. But the word halakhah, generally translated as 'Jewish law, ' literally means 'the way to walk.' Rather than a limited set of ritual laws, halakhah represents an all-encompassing way of life."
--from Chapter 1
Jewish tradition compels us to protect the poorest, weakest and most vulnerable among us. But discerning how to make meaningful and effective change through social justice work--whether in community or on your own--is not always easy.
This guide provides ways to envision and act on your own ideals of social justice by helping you navigate through such issues as:
- Creating a narrative mission statement that reflects your organization's values
- Balancing the needs of your community with those of other communities
- Weighing the pros and cons of various models of social justice work (direct service, advocacy, investment and community organizing)
- Expanding the impact and efficiency of your work
- Locating your social justice goals and methods within the context of Jewish tradition
- Maintaining the motivation and inspiration to continue your social justice work
Each chapter includes a set of discussion questions to prompt reflection and conversation, as well as tips, tools, processes and forms for getting your social justice project off the ground.
Synopsis
Helps you discern how to effect meaningful change based on Jewish values and your own ideals of social justice. Guides you in evaluating different models of social justice work, organizing effective projects and maintaining your motivation and inspiration.