Sing Out Your Support for Gun Violence Prevention
On Sunday, September 25, people from all across the United States will gather in person and on social media in the #ConcertAcrossAmerica to call for an end to the epidemic of gun violence that has plagued our country for far too long.
"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.
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.
How the Last Words of Moses Prepare Us for an Election Season
At the end of the book of Bamidbar, which we just completed reading, it seemed that Moses’ career as a leader had come to an end. His successor, Joshua, had already been determined, and it would be he, not Moses, who would lead the people into the Promised Land. Still, in the midst of transition and the last month of his life, Moses assembles the people and delivers a series of addresses. This week’s parasha begins with the phrase Eleh ha-d’varim, meaning “these are the words.” As the children of Israel assemble in front of him, Moses prepares them for a new beginning. He ceases to be the liberator, the miracle worker who parted the sea, and the redeemer who was called upon to replenish a depleted well. The people gain responsibility.
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".
Let There Be Understanding Among Us: People with Disabilities and Interactions with the Police
Only one month after the horrific mass shooting at the Pulse Nightclub in Florida, a different Florida shooting evoked new pain.
Rio Olympics: A Reminder of the Need for Zika Funding
With the Olympics having begun last week in Brazil, we are extra-aware of the threat of Zika. Brazil, a country that is a hotspot for mosquitos, and as a result Zika virus, we are reminded of the continued need for the United States to approve funding to combat Zika.
Repeals on the Ballot: Measures to End the Death Penalty in November
At the National Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty (NCADP), I am working with the 90 Million Strong Campaign, which is currently focusing its efforts in Nebraska, to prepare for a
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.”