This past Monday I had the privilege of taking part in the Poor People’s Campaign in Detroit, the last of this spring’s 40 days of Moral Action.

After Jake wrote this heartfelt article about the Poor People's Campaign in Lansing it was picked up by the DJN. 

Read the full article here

On June 1-3, nearly 40 DJJ leaders gathered at Camp Tavor for a leadership Shabbaton - a weekend of relationship-building and training. The experience left us rested, re-charged, and re-committed to our work for racial and economic justice. Read Emma Wine's reflection on the experience below!

Hi Everyone!!

My name is Miriam and I am thrilled to be the new DJJ intern! I am so excited to grow alongside this amazing community.

After Chris Harrison wrote a stunning blog about his dinner with Aurora Levins Morales and other Jews of Color, it was picked up by the Detroit Jewish News.

"...Rabbi Alana called me and asked if I’d be interested in participating in a civil disobedience with the Poor People’s Campaign. Here’s why I said yes."

Photo by Valerie Jean

For the past two Mondays, I’ve had the pleasure and privilege of joining the Poor People’s Campaign (PPC) in Lansing as part of their “40 Days of Moral Action.”

On Monday, I was able to attend the first day of action with the Poor People's Campaign in Lansing.  For me this was an incredibly special moment.  My grandfather was a rabbi in Nashville who studied under Rabbi Heschel.  He was one of the first clergymen to march with MLK.  I know my grandfather dedicated his career to advocating for civil rights, social change, and MLK's mission of nonviolence.  So, it was very moving for me to be a part of that legacy and the movement to continue King's work.  

On May 4th through 6th, I and three other DJJ leaders attended a weekend "White People Confronting Racism" training with Training for Change in Philadelphia. I arrived home surprised at how heartwarming a weekend confronting racism could be. The training ended with full hearts, affirmation, and genuine love for one another. I left feeling the most hopeful I have in a while. I left inspired by the vulnerability of 18 former strangers. I felt inspired by the bravery of bringing our full selves to the table, fears, tears, insecurities and all. It ended it with deep gratitude for each other and for the space that offered safety to feel uncomfortable. I left feeling proud of the intense introspective work accomplished. I left with hope that we can bring openness and compassion while grappling with the difficult conversations necessary for confronting racism.

Dear friends,

If 40 DJJ leaders gather in a forest, does it make a sound? We’re going to find out in June at our Leadership Shabbaton. Knowing our group, my guess is yes, it might get a little bit noisy - with laughter, passionate conversation, and song.