"Stand Your Ground" Goes on Trial
A combination of "stand your ground" legislation and lax gun laws has led to startling increases in violence and homicides for the states that enact them. As George Zimmerman's trial date grows nearer, a reevaluation of these types of laws is severely needed.
Calling for an End to Violence & Hate
I couple weeks ago, I told you about American Apparel's announcement that the clothing company would send free "Legalize Gay: Overturn Prop 8 Now!" shirts to any organization in the D.C. area working for LGBT equality.
Lautenberg Personified the Jewish Story in America
It is, as they say, the “end of an era.” The last World War II veteran serving in Congress, Sen. Frank Lautenberg, has died.
Justice Delayed, Justice Denied, For Far Too Many
For many white observers, the protests calling for an end to police violence and Black liberation that erupted over the weekend may have appeared sudden.
"White Jews: It Is on Us"
For many white observers, the protests calling for an end to police violence and Black liberation that erupted over the weekend may have appeared sudden.
Mourning the Passing of Senator Frank Lautenberg
Rabbi David Saperstein of the Religious Action Center reflects on the legacy of Senator Lautenberg, a tireless advocate for justice and for the Reform Jewish community.
Reform Movement Mourns Passing of Senator Frank Lautenberg
Saperstein: In all that he did, he pursued justice through just means, using the tools of government to transform and better the lives of others".
Reform Movement Applauds Supreme Court Action in Georgia Death Penalty Case
Pelavin: "The Reform Movement opposes the death penalty under any circumstances, but the application of the death penalty in a case where a defendant's guilt is in question is particularly distressing."
At Vigil, DC Jewish Community Condemns Tel Aviv Attack on LGBT Community Center
Pelavin: "We remember too many violent acts here at home and abroad, too many children taken from parents, too many parents taken from children, and too many families and communities shaken and terrorized by hate."
Evolving Justice
I was recently called to jury service in Los Angeles. As imperfect as this complicated, human system of law may be, the jury selection made me proud to be an American, especially as the judge instructed the potential jurors about the meaning of “presumed innocent.”