Appreciating Our Roots: Reflections on Hispanic Heritage Month
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.
Why the Biden Administration Should Support Higher Corporate Average Fuel Economy Standards
The following blog post is adapted from testimony given by Rabbi Emily Losben-Ostrov at a National Highway and Transportation Safety Administration hearing on Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards on September 28, 2023. This testimony was presented as part of Power for Purpose: The Reform Movement's 2023 Campaign for Climate Justice.
Meet the 2023-2024 Eisendrath Legislative Assistants
We are thrilled and honored to introduce ourselves as the 2023-2024 Eisendrath Legislative Assistants ! Our cohort brings a wealth of diverse backgrounds, interests, and experiences to our roles. We are united by a shared dedication to advancing the URJ's vision of peace and wholeness, justice and equity, and belonging and joy.
Celebrating Sukkot: A Time to Welcome, Rejoice, and Advocate
The Jewish holiday of Sukkot is one where we are called upon to rejoice; in fact, it is the only festival where we receive this direct commandment. The holiday is a time to dwell in temporary huts, or sukkot, with open walls and doors, as we invite our communities and loved ones inside to rejoice with us.
Why the Biden Administration Must Cut Climate Pollution on our Roads
RAC legislative assistant Noé Granados spoke at a National Highway and Transportation Safety Administration hearing on Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards on September 28, 2023.
Congress Must Pass a Budget That Honors the Dignity of All
Before October 1, Congress must pass a federal budget to avoid a government shutdown. Congress can either pass a package of 12 appropriations bills to establish new funding levels for the upcoming fiscal year and/or a continuing resolution to temporarily continue funding levels from the prior year.
Why Reform Jews Should Lead the Fight to Pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act
With the reintroduction of the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act last week, it's important to remember the true cost of getting the Voting Rights Act passed.
Making Amends: A Message for Yom Kippur 5784
As Yom Kippur 5784 approaches, our commitment to making amends and pursuing restorative justice remains resolute. Even as the final shofar blast sounds at the end of Neilah, we will continue to hold ourselves accountable and atone for the harm suffered by victims and survivors. We will never shirk this challenging, morally demanding work.
We’re Fighting for Reproductive Freedom in Ohio. Here’s How You Can Join Us.
On November 7th, Ohioans will go to the polls to vote on the freedom of reproductive rights in our state. Issue 1 would establish a state constitutional right to "make and carry out one's own reproductive decisions," including decisions about abortion, contraception, fertility treatment, miscarriage care, and continuing pregnancy.
Witness Testimony: Book Bans: Examining How Censorship Limits Liberty and Literature
The following blog post is adapted from testimony given by Cameron Samuels, Co-Founder, Students Engaged in Advancing Texas and VP of Engagement and Inclusion for NFTY, at a hearing before U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary on September 12, 2023.
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