Tikkun Olam

  “Learn to do good. Pursue justice.” (Isaiah 1:17)

  • Opening eyes through education and discussion.

  • Opening hearts to the needs in our local community.

  • Opening hands to do good and pursue justice.

“Justice, justice you shall pursue!” (Deuteronomy 16:20)

Our tradition teaches that it isn’t up to us to complete the work, but neither are we free to desist from it (Pirkei Avot 2:16). But, where does one start? What possible effect can one person have, given the enormity of the problems we face? The work of tikkun olam, “repairing the world,” often feels overwhelming.  Our Tikkun Olam committee works together to focus on projects that are in line with our vision and mission as a congregation, sets goals and keeps the group accountable to one another, and serves as support and inspiration to one another, and to the congregation as a whole.  They certainly inspire me!  Indeed, the work of social justice is never done alone, only together in community.

Rabbi Anna Boswell-Levy
Rabbi Anna Boswell-Levy

Our Committee’s Work

Since its formation in 2017, the overarching mission of our Tikkun Olam Committee has been to help repair the world by using our heads, hearts and hands in the pursuit of economic, racial and environmental justice.

We do this by building awareness, through education and discussion, of the needs in our local community and the organizations that have successfully been meeting those needs. We invite representatives from exemplary non-profits to speak to our congregants, and to interested members of our external community, about their good work and the ways  interested individuals can contribute their time and/or financial resources. Some of our associations become true partnerships as we build a network of connections and support for our beloved community.

Judaism & Justice

Why We Do This Work

A key part of keeping Judaism alive for me is ensuring I’m putting my time and money where my values are.  Our committee allows me to learn about how to do that, and to bring knowledge about local people and organizations doing that good work every day to our fellow congregants and neighbors in the community.

Dara Bortman
Dara Bortman

I was raised within a family, synagogue, and community that taught me that I was either part of the problem or part of the solution in addressing our society’s ills. Consequently, being of service to my community, to ‘repair the world’, has always been a core value, one that has been made consistently actionable through my membership in Kol Emet and by the collaborative and inspirational work of Kol Emet’s Tikkun Olam Committee.

Susan Millner
Susan Millner

I joined Kol Emet in July 2014 and quickly became an enthusiastic member of Tikkun Olam. Interesting and progressive ideas become exciting programs that deepen our knowledge, our study, and our commitment to Judaism. ‘Repairing the World’ is one of my ways of practicing Judaism and it is a pleasure to be with a group of smart, funny, skilled, kind, creative, and forward-thinking people.

Jeanlu Ryersbach
Jeanlu Ryersbach

One of the main reasons I joined Kol Emet last year is because the synagogue is actively engaged in the community and addresses issues of social, environmental and economic justice. Tikkun Olam is a key part of this effort in bringing awareness to these important issues as well as engaging in meaningful community activities. I am glad to be part of this hardworking and dedicated group of individuals who embody the essence of Tikkun Olam–“repairing the world.”

Barry Truchil
Barry Truchil

I participate on our Tikkun Olam Committee because life on this planet isn’t just about our rights – it’s also about our responsibilities. From human issues such as antiracism to climate and environmental health, there are always ways I can contribute in whatever small or large ways that are doable for me, and with every small effort being genuinely appreciated. If we want our world to become a better place, it’s up to us to make it so. In the words of my deceased father, “don’t tell me what you can’t do; tell me what you can do.”

Meryl Wexler
Meryl Wexler

Through my participation in our Tikkun Olam Committee, I am able to develop a sense of hope for a safer, healthier, and more sustainable planet.

Nancy Fisher
Nancy Fisher

“Justice, Justice shall you pursue.”  Working on the Tikkun Olam Committee allows me to fulfill the words of Torah.

Howard Greenberg

Working at the Intersection

We have learned that the systems that have led to environmental degradation and climate change,  economic inequality, and structural racism are one and the same.  We acknowledge that, as we work for justice for people and the planet – for environmental, economic and racial justice – we cannot achieve justice in one area without working to achieve justice in all.

The Tikkun Olam Committee has hosted events that highlight local organizations and individuals doing the good work to level the playing field and tackle systemic injustices.  Click on the areas below to see some of our featured events and associated resources that provide insights, action items, further readings, and more.

Environmental Justice

“The LORD God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to till it and tend it.”(Genesis 2:15)

Racial/Identity         Justice

You shall love the stranger like yourself.(Leviticus 19:34)

Economic                Justice

“For there will never cease to be needy ones in your land, which is why I command you: open your hand to the poor and needy kinsman in your land.” (Deuteronomy 15:11)

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