In a society that equates heroism with physical strength, the non-violent legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. is an opportunity to teach our children important Jewish values. "Who is mighty?" our rabbis ask and then provide two counter-intuitive answers: A hero is "one who can conquer his or own evilinclinations" and "one who can transform an enemy into a friend."
The dream of Martin Luther King, Jr. challenges us to face even subtle racist inclinations. He also led a movement that transformed the beliefs of millions. Our children are so far removed from this magical moment in American history. Our challenge, as parents, is to make this history relevant.
The pursuit of justice and peace are fundamental themes in Jewish text and law. In Genesis we are taught that men and women are created in God's image. The Exodus story of the freeing of the Israelite slaves has been an inspiration for all oppressed groups. In Deuteronomy (16:20) we are commanded, "Justice, justice shall you pursue." Coming from a long history of persecution and discrimination and a tradition that emphasizes human dignity, Jews understood the work of Dr. King and rallied behind him. While children will learn about Dr. King and what he stood for in their schools, his sensitivity to Jewish issues and his echoing of the biblical prophets is something that parents can teach their children at home.
This year, MLK Day feels particularly poignant as we continue to grapple with the effects of the pandemic and the heightened awareness of the systemic racism that still plagues our country. I hope that your family will take the time to acknowledge Martin Luther King day and it's significance in our society.
Ron Leff, RJE
Director of Education
In Parashat Vaerah, we see that although Moses begins most of the plagues, it is Aaron who hits the water to begin the plague of blood. The commentator Rashi explains that since the water protected Moses as a baby when he was set in the Nile, it would not be proper for him to punish the water. Do you think that it’s important to show appreciation for nature? After all, what has nature done for us -isn’t it there for us to use?
Look inside the text (7:19) And God said to Moses, “Say to Aaron: Take your rod and hold out your arm over the waters of Egypt—its rivers, its canals, its ponds, all its bodies of water—that they may turn to blood; there will be blood throughout the land of Egypt, even in vessels of wood and stone.”
Volunteer: Martin Luther King’s birthday is not only a time to rededicate ourselves to his dream of equality and justice, but is also a day for volunteering. As a family, choose a location to volunteer where your children will see for themselves how much work still needs to be done to accomplish Dr. King’s dream.
Talk about racism: Your children have no doubt heard racist or anti-Semitic remarks or jokes or have encountered instances of prejudice and discrimination over the past year. Ask them about what they have seen and heard and role play situations to help them combat stereotyping and prejudice.
Ways Reform Jews Can Act Now for Racial Justice:Click here for an article on ReformJudaism on how we can work toward Racial Justice.
Demonstrate for good causes: Involve your children in demonstrations about issues you care about passionately. The Jewish tradition mandates involving ourselves in important social issues as religious obligations.
At the Table with Dr. King: The Mizel Museum and Aurora Community of faith present (virtually) a captivating musical performance that inspires civic action and leadership by More than Music. This vibrant online program immerses you in the sights and sounds of the American Civil Rights Movement.
RJ on the Go is your virtual home for interactive, meaningful, and joyous Jewish experiences. Explore your Judaism through science, art, text, and more from the comfort of your own home, and build your Jewish community as you go.
Set your legacy in stone and show your pride in our amazing community by purchasing a personalized, engraved brick that will be beautifully displayed outside our main building, to be seen for years to come.
