For those who turn 18 years old by this November 8, this will be their first year as voters. Whether they cast their first vote during a primary this year, fill out an absentee ballot while at college, or plan to visit their polling place on Election Day, these are all Shehecheyanu moments.
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.
In the aftermath of last Friday’s (September 15) verdict that found former police officer Jason Stockley not guilty in the 2011 shooting death of Anthony Lamar Smith, ReformJudaism.org spoke to Rabbi Susan Talve of Central Reform Congregation in St. Louis, MO. This community’s actions over the past several days and the past several years serve as one example of how we can act on our values in a meaningful and relevant way. To explore more ways that your congregation can act for racial justice, visit the RAC’s Urgency of Now resource center.