The American dream is an impossibility for too many hard working Americans who face the daily anguish, devastation and hopelessness of poverty and near poverty. Torah and Jewish tradition teach us that it is our obligation to pursue justice for those who are in need. Every year, in the weeks surrounding Labor Day, we read from Parshat Shoftim: "Tzedek, tzedek tirdof: Justice, justice shall you pursue." We have the opportunity to put this ancient teaching into practice when we seek justice for workers.
Domestic workers are indispensable to the American economy, yet there are few laws governing their treatment. Jewish tradition and values can provide that ethical foundation and guidance.
Sweatshops persist because they employ workers who believe that they have no other option. When we educate ourselves about the human rights violations in our world, we can then encourage others to be morally responsible in their actions.
To combat poverty and unemployment, congregations can advocate for the right of all human beings to fair wages and attempt to assist our fellow citizens in finding work.
A week-long campaign for advocacy and direct action to reduce the number of uninsured in this country including materials for Jewish prayer, study and action.
The Progressive Jewish Alliance created this interdisciplinary book about garment industry sweatshops that draw upon Jewish tradition, American history and current world events to provide a holistic look at one of the most serious injustices afflicting contemporary society.
News and Articles
"Care for the Caregivers: Interfaith Dialogues Focus on Labor Issues" An article from Ben Weyl, posted in the Washington Jewish Week, explains this year's Labor on the Bimah theme: "Caring for Caregivers." Read More.
Labor on the Bimah Materials
