A Jewish Teen's Message to Congress on Gun Violence Prevention
Last week, Reform Jewish high school students from across the country came to Washington, D.C for the Bernard and Audre Rapaport L’Taken Social Justice Seminar.
After Parkland: How We're Mobilizing to Prevent Gun Violence
The Reform Jewish community faced the tragic task last week of burying our own: Among the 17 people gunned down in last Wednesday’s Parkland school shooting were Reform Jewish teens and a teacher.
Jewish Women Say Celebrating Purim in the #MeToo Era is Different
Themes relating to gender are especially relevant this Purim, as sexual harassment and assault allegations against high-profile men continue to emerge.
Why the Hebrew Month of Adar Will Never Be the Same for Me
Despite the imperative to be joyous during the Hebrew month of Adar, I cried recently at the Western Wall during Rosh Chodesh services marking the new month.
The Case Against Vouchers: Keeping Public Funds for Public Schools
Late January featured "National School Choice Week," during which proponents of school vouchers worked to promote the visibility of
A Letter to My Campers After Parkland
My hope for you is that your schools will feel as safe as your camp cabins. I want you to be able to run, laugh, play, learn, and grow as freely as you could at camp, where your biggest fear is falling and skinning your knee. I want you to not have to question whether or not the next time you talk to your friends will be the last time you’re able to. I want you to be active and engaged citizens, like we teach you to be at camp, but I want you to do this out of a desire for good, not out of trauma and necessity. Most importantly, I want you to just be kids. I want you to not have to worry. I want you to have a childhood that lasts as long as possible, free from fear, free from pain, and free to always be as happy as you are at 201 Camp Coleman Drive.
How We Can Channel Purim’s Giving Spirit all Year Long
At the end of M’gillat Esther, the Jewish people celebrate their survival with merrymaking, feasting, and sending gifts to one another and to the poor.
7 Decades of Innovation in Israel: Computers and Software Technologies
During the 1960s, Israeli scientists laid the groundwork that would enable its institutions and hi-tech companies to flourish, creating a global center for innovation.
How Purim Can Fill an Emotional Need for Connection
I love the idea that one of the things we try to do on Purim is increase connection and friendship – and sending gift baskets is the perfect way to do that!
Transforming Judgment and Mercy
Earlier this week, I testified in front of the Ohio state Senate Judiciary committee. Speaking on behalf of Reform Ohio, I represented clergy who serve more than 43,000 Jews in 34 synagogues in every corner of the state.