Dear Lab/Shul Friends,
I got back to NYC on Sunday after a week in the Dominican Republic with AJWS’ Global Justice Fellows – just in time for an auspicious and complex national/global moment of transition this coming weekend.
From our special Sabbath gathering Friday night in Brooklyn (including an alternative swearing-in ceremony!), to our march in Manhattan on Saturday (final details are in!), to the fast day proclaimed for this Friday, I invite you to join me in celebrating democracy, accessing Jewish wisdom in the face of challenges, and coming together as a greater community for justice and love.
On the plane back to NYC I thought a lot about what I had seen in the DR and how this knowledge will impact our quickly unfolding future. This journey wasn’t about tourism – it was a group of clergy witnessing firsthand the erosion of democratic values and the powerful response of local organizers, concerned citizens, and unsung heroes fighting for their human dignity and civic rights. The lessons learned, and there were many, are critical as we prepare for what’s ahead this weekend and the years ahead.
1. MAKE AN OATH – Friday 1/20
Gather to pray, protest, inaugurate the Sabbath Queen, and make our own oath for owning our values and rising as leaders – an alternative swearing in ceremony, Lab/Shul style. After worship we’ll have hosted conversations around our hopes, fears, and plans for action + DIY sign materials for Saturday’s march. INFO / RSVP
2. MARCH – Saturday 1/21
People power! Join Lab/Shul at the Women’s March on NYC in support of equality and civil rights for every human. We’ll meet at Town & Village with the rest of Downtown Jewish Life, then march together up 2nd Ave to join the main protest. INFO / RSVP
Wishing us all days of safety, inspiration, and hope. Shabbat shalom – deep breath everyone! We’ve got this.
– Rabbi Amichai
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