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This video illuminates the Reform Movement's relationship with Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and our involvement in the Civil Rights Movement. It is a proud chapter of our history, reminding us of the achievements of our past, reflecting the challenges of our present, and inspiring our hopes for the future.
“I have the audacity to believe that peoples everywhere can have three meals a day for their bodies, education and culture their minds, and dignity, equality and freedom for their spirits. I believe that what self-centered men have torn down, men other-centered can build up. I still believe that one day mankind will bow before the altars of God and be crowned triumphant over war and bloodshed, and nonviolent redemptive goodwill will proclaim the rule of the land ... I still believe that we shall overcome.” -Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Noble Prize Acceptance Speech, Dec. 10, 1965
Every January, we honor the memory of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Each year, we have an opportunity to celebrate the strides made in the ongoing struggle for civil rights and a chance to pause and reflect on all of those who sacrificed their lives for the sacred cause of equality.
Genesis teaches us that we are all created b’tselem Eloheim, “in the Image of God.” Dr. King’s faith was, too, guided by this principle. The Christianity of Dr. King and the Judaism of the Reform Jewish Movement share a common vision, grounded in the Godliness of human life and committed to the pursuit of a more just society. This year, may we today find the strength to continue marching on that long road to freedom.
A major research effort to assemble and disseminate historical information concerning Martin Luther King, Jr. and the social movements in which he participated
Assists the public in understanding the lessons of the Civil Rights Movement and its impact and influence on the human rights movement worldwide, through its collections, exhibitions, research and educational programs.
On the Shabbat before Martin Luther King Day, you may wish to sermonize on Dr. King and the Civil Rights Movement. Here are some notes and ideas for sermons.
This guide explores Jewish and socially just celebrations of Thanksgiving and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day. It also includes a section on the Super Bowl, for good measure!
Many leaders of the Reform Jewish Movement were arrested with Dr. King in St. Augustine, Florida, in 1964 after a challenge to racial segregation in public accommodations. Hear the story firsthand from Rabbi Israel Dresner, who marched and was later arrested in St. Augustine. This podcast was produced in collaboration with NFTY.
This guidebook for schools, organizations and parents, created by the California State University-Fullerton, provides Historical Sketches, an MLK Learning Toolkit, an MLK Reflection Toolkit, and various supplemental resources.
Other Resources
