January 23, 2023
“Action is the only remedy to indifference: the most insidious danger of all.” — Eli Weisel
This week, we remember the tireless equity work of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and we will celebrate Black history month in February. During these specified days and always, we reflect on the historical and continued injustices suffered by people whose identities have been marginalized in our nation—particularly Black people. We also celebrate the vibrancy of lives lived in the face of extraordinary challenges and the progress we have made over the years, remembering the teaching of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, “If you believe we can destroy, then you must believe we can repair.” 
This work can be difficult and uncomfortable, but it is essential to Jewish tradition, as the Torah implores, “Justice, Justice, shall you pursue.”
Justice for all cannot be achieved until we address ongoing, systemic racism and bigotry in all facets of society.
At Mirowitz, we recognize each individual as being created b’tzelem Elohim. We strive to relate to each other with dignity, kindness, respect, compassion, and joy befitting creations in the divine image, and to see each person as having infinite worth.
We teach our students to seek justice ( tzedek) and to pursue building equitable systems that protect and advance the human rights of all people. As Dr. King taught, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”
From the first days of Kindergarten, our curriculum leverages both secular and Judaic learning to teach students about justice and social responsibility. In Middle School, the lessons become more sophisticated as by then, students have the maturity to study the Civil Rights Movement in depth, and the empathy to ask themselves, “What can I do to make this world more compassionate, whole, and just?” 
I suspect that among your reasons for choosing Mirowitz were our core values, including social responsibility. Below are ways your family can do the work of pursuing justice together. Dr. King might remind us that “life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?” Let us reaffirm that standing up against racism, antisemitism, and inequality—actively and with kindness is to build a kehillah kedoshah (a holy community). That is not just a piece of our mission. It IS our mission.
I look forward to continuing to do good work in partnership with you.
L’shalom,
Raquel
What Can You Do?
Read to expand understanding: There are many books written by or about diverse groups in our community and world. Start with this list from B’chol Lashon.
Contact Elected Officials: Look up your legislators and advocate for issues that are important to you. (You are never too young to lobby! Just ask our 4th graders!)
VOTE: Register everyone to vote. Oppose legislation that limits access to voting. Support early voting.
Volunteer Online. Volunteer and use your passion and energies to ignite change. Check out these family and kid friendly opportunities.