While the attacks on registering and voting have become more sophisticated and less overtly violent, the attacks have gone on unabated since the passage of the Voting Rights Act in 1965. Today we find ourselves facing down questions about our ability to fully realize the promise of our multiracial democracy.

This Hispanic Heritage Month, I am reflecting on these ways in which the intersectionality of my identity have pushed me forward, a microcosm of the purpose of this month's designation. Also known as Latino Heritage Month, this annual celebration recognizes and honors the contributions, culture, and history of Hispanic and Latine Americans.

On January 13-14, 2023 (the Shabbat before MLK Day), synagogues across the United States will celebrate MLK Shabbat. This year, let MLK Shabbat symbolize our commitment to expanding voting rights and advancing racial justice in 2023 and beyond.

Last week, the FBI released its annual compilation of hate crimes statistics, summarizing all hate crimes reported to the FBI in 2021. While the statistics themselves are grim and disturbing, the most alarming statistic in this year’s announcement is what was not reported. While underreporting of hate crimes has been an ongoing issue, this report is more inaccurate than usual.

How will you celebrate Hispanic Heritage after the month ends on October 15th?

Hispanic Heritage Month is particularly important for me this year as I feel more connected to my Hispanic, Latino identity than I have in the past.

As the Racial Justice LA, my work is rooted in my belief systems and experiences as a JOC. Not only do I get to be the person I never saw growing up, but I hope to help create more opportunities for those like me in the future. And as I finish up my first year at the RAC, I am eager to make my mark as I continue my work for another year to advocate to end the death penalty, pass legislation to study reparations for Black Americans, expand and protect the right to vote for all as we approach the primaries, and push for true policing reform. Those who are disproportionately harmed by these issues don’t have the benefit of growing up in communities who claim to be color blind. The world sees and treats us differently.

As we reflect on the United States' Independence Day, I am mindful that democracy also takes commitment and practice. Democracy takes practice because it still is not accessible to all.

On Sunday, June 12, 2022, congregants and clergy from over twenty Reform synagogues gathered at Temple Shalom of Newton for the launch of RAC-Massachusetts, the Religious Action Center’s ninth and newest statewide project. The room had an energy I haven’t felt since before the pandemic, reminding everyone there what can happen when we are in community.