The Bernard and Audre Rapoport L'Taken Social Justice Seminar is designed to both expose teens to a variety of public policy issues and explore the Jewish values that inform the Reform Movement's advocacy around these issues.
L'Taken means "to repair" in Hebrew, and, in partnership with the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism (RAC), you will have the opportunity to impact and begin to repair our country as you share your views on social justice topics with decision-makers on Capitol Hill
The weekend will give you the knowledge and tools to write an effective, persuasive and passionate speech on a topic of your choice to present to your Senators and Representatives. This unique experience can have a significant impact on the course of legislation, as members of Congress have chosen to co-sponsor, offer amendments to, and vote for pieces of legislation that participants discussed.
Our programming will expose you to a range of topics, eventually encouraging you to focus on a single issue about which you are particularly passionate. Throughout the weekend, you will have the opportunity to attend programs on a range of topics including Israel, the environment, reproductive rights, LGBTQ+ rights, antisemitism and economic justice, and more.
You will also have the opportunity to visit various Smithsonian museums and the National Mall and celebrate havdallah at a national monument. And, all the while, you will have the chance to meet Reform Jews from across the US devoted to pursuing .
We look forward to seeing you in Washington, D.C. and to visiting Capitol Hill to advocate on issues of importance to the Reform Movement. Together, we can fulfill the commandment of Tzedek, tzedek tirdof, justice, justice you shall pursue (Deuteronomy 16:20). Learn more about the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism.