Blog - Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia

Five Short (But Powerful) Readings About Racial Justice From A Jewish Perspective

Written by Jewish Federation Staff | Jul 16, 2020 5:33:21 PM

Much has been written about racial justice in America since the tragic killing of George Floyd and the subsequent protests. Here are five articles that explore the issue from a Jewish perspectiveincluding how we can support people of color in our own communities, institutions, and schools.

Jewish Telegraphic Agency - “I helped coin the term ‘Jews of color.’ It’s time for a history lesson” by Shahanna McKinney Baldon

Shahanna McKinney Baldon, director of the Edot Midwest Regional Jewish Diversity Collaborative, offers her perspective as one of originators the term “Jews of Color,” delving into the term’s true meaning and common misconceptions about it.

Jewish Telegraphic Agency “‘Believe us’: Black Jews respond to the George Floyd protests, in their own words” by Josefin Dolsten 

Drawing on the perspective of a hip-hop artist, an educator, a social worker and rabbinical student, each of the Black Jews interviewed for this article shares a unique perspective on the killing of George Floyd and their message to the broader Jewish community.

eJewishPhilanthropy - “What White Jewish-led Institutions Can Do For Racial Justice Now” by Jonah S. Boyarin

Jonah S. Boyarin, who co-founded the country’s first Diversity and Equity Program at a Jewish day school, shares his wisdom on what white Jewish-led institutions can do to take action to combat racial injustices and promote a more welcoming and tolerant environment.

Jewish Telegraphic Agency - “Black Americans and Jews of color don’t need another short-term ally — we need you to join our fight” by Jordan Daniels 

Jordan Daniels, a Black, Jewish member of the LGBT community, shares an important distinction between superficial allyship and what he calls being an "accomplice"—someone who actively works towards social change.

The Forward - “My Fellow Jews: Get In the Fight by Melanie Roth Gorelick

Senior Vice President of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, Melanie Roth Gorelick shares her thoughts on this pivotal moment in history from a Jewish lens.  She covers a wide spectrum of current issues including some of the recent victims of police brutality, discrimination and institutional racism, the Covid-19 pandemic, Jewish advocacy and what actions the American Jewish community can take to further racial justice.

The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia is committed to rising to this moment in the fight for racial justice. Click here to learn more about our JCRC's racial justice initiatives and how you can get involved.