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Public Statements and Positions (By Topic)

This page contains statements issued or endorsed by Reconstructionist institutions, grouped by primary topic.

A listing grouped by date is available here.

See also this page of public statements and positions from the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association.

Civil Society

  • Accountability is One Step Toward Justice: Response to a Verdict in the Murder of George Floyd (April 22, 2021)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association applaud Tuesday’s guilty verdict in the murder of George Floyd as an important step toward basic accountability for racial violence in America. We join our allies around the world in taking a moment to breathe - a basic human right denied to George Floyd and countless others. For far too long, impunity has been the norm for actors of state-sanctioned violence against Black and Brown people, a pillar of the American racial caste system that has its roots in slavery and the lynchings of the Jim Crow era.

  • We Must Work to Ensure that the January 6th Insurrection Will Not Disrupt American Democracy (January 7, 2021)

    We must act now in defense of democracy and in support of a vibrant, principled America that values all voices and that protects all minorities. We must insist that perpetrators of this insurrection — from those who instigated to those who acted — be held accountable. We must work to ensure that the Biden administration works with Congress to enact meaningful reforms in support of racial justice and voting rights, and to combat the white nationalist movement. American democracy is a great, unfolding experiment that requires attention and effort. Let us renew our commitment to the work of furthering it.

  • Counting Every Vote (November 9, 2020)

    Many American Jews considering voting to be a mitzvah, a commandment. It is essential that every vote is counted so that every voice is heard and so that our full-throated democracy can flourish.

  • Jewish Clergy Letter in Support of Right to Protest (June 12, 2020)

    Reconstructionist leaders were among 800 Jewish clergy from across the Jewish spectrum signing a letter in support of the fundamental right to peaceful protest. 

  • Joint Statement of Solidarity by Jewish Communal Organizations (April 2, 2020)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were about 180 Jewish communal organizations issuing a statement urging our political leaders and all our fellow Americans to treat this public health crisis as a moment for kindness and solidarity, and to make extra efforts to reach towards one another in support, not look to blame or scapegoat.

  • Statement Against Cut in Nutritional Aid (December 5, 2019)

    Hunger is not a political tool to be played with. Food security is a human right. Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association join our friends at MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger in denouncing the Trump Administration’s final rule to strip nutritional benefits for nearly 700,000 food-insecure Americans.

  • Letter Opposing Rollback of Predatory Lending Protections (May 17, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Assocation were among seventeen Jewish organizations writing to the Consumer Protection Finance Bureau in opposition to an administration proposal to rescind protections against predatory lending.

  • Statement Opposing Restrictions on Food Aid (March 15, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism joined 35 national faith-based organizations in a statement opposing attempts to restrict states from providing food aid to the hungry.

  • Letter Opposing Repeal of Johnson Amendment (April 2019) (February 6, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among 131 organizations sending a letter to the House Ways and Means and Senate Finance committes, urging them not to repeal or weaken the “Johnson Amendment” that currently ensures that tax-exempt organizations do not support or oppose candidates for political office.

  • Letter Opposing Repeal of Johnson Amendment (December 17, 2018)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among 109 organizations sending a letter to the House of Representatives, urging them not to repeal or weaken the “Johnson Amendment” that currently ensures that tax-exempt organizations do not support or oppose candidates for political office.

  • B’tselem Elohim: Jewish Ethics, Sexual Harassment and the Workplace of the Future (December 18, 2017)

    Reconstructionist leaders call for institutional reform and lasting change in the wake of the #metoo campaign.

  • Faith Voices Letter in Support of Keeping Houses of Worship Non-Partisan (August 16, 2017)

    Reconstructionist leaders were among the more than 4000 signatories to a letter urging the U.S. Senate not to repeal or weaken current law that prevents tax-exempt religious organizations from partisan political endorsements.

  • Rabbi Deborah Waxman Speaks to Faith Leaders on Solidarity (December 6, 2016)

    Rabbi Deborah Waxman made this statement to faith leaders during a 11/28/2016 call on “Faith and Solidarity during a time of White Supremacy.”

Criminal Justice

  • Brief Asking Federal Court to Reverse Ruling Allowing Strip Searches of Female Inmates As Training Exercise (August 30, 2019)

    We ask the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit to re-hear and reverse a ruling that found that staff at an Illinois prison did not violate the Constitution when they forced female inmates to engage in a deeply humiliating and dehumanizing strip search as part of a training exercise. The ruling “opens the door to other violation of prisoners’ First Amendement religious freedom rights and protections.”

Crisis Response

  • North American Jewish Groups Denounce Antisemitic Attacks in Wake of Hostilities Between Israel and Hamas (May 23, 2021)

    As North American Jewish denominations representing a significant majority of American Jewry, we join together to uniformly condemn rising incidences of antisemitism. We commend the many religious, civil society and political leaders of goodwill who have denounced these actions and are urging and implementing steps to strengthen efforts to combat antisemitism and antisemitic attacks.

  • American Jewish organizations condemn military rule in Burma, call for U.S. action (February 26, 2021)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined with other members of the Jewish Rohingya Justice Network in condemning the military’s coup in Burma (Myanmar), its brutal crackdown on peaceful protests, and the unjust and arbitrary detention and arrest of democratic leaders, activists, and protestors.

  • Letter for Utility Assistance (September 29, 2020)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined 41 religious and non-profit organizations urging the Pennsylvania General Assembly to allocate relief money in order to cover the outstanding utility bills of vulnerable Pennsylvania residents and businesses facing shut-offs.

  • Interfaith Letter Against Utility Shutoffs (July 30, 2020)

    Reconstructing Judaism joined a letter signed by over 500 faith leaders and organizations, urging a national moratorium on water, electricity, and broadband shutoffs in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

  • Standing Up for Racial Justice and Against Racial Violence (June 2, 2020)

    The murder of George Floyd is a blatant display of the systemic racism built into the fabric of American society. To our black and brown siblings: your lives matter. We support non-violent protest to build a more just and equitable world for all people. Let our anger and our love lift us up into a better tomorrow.

  • Call to Protect Human Rights in in Myanmar (Burma) in Face of COVID-19 (May 13, 2020)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association signed a joint letter to U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, demanding that Myanmar (Burma) make a priority of promoting human rights as COVID-19 spreads.

  • Reopening Our Institutions (May 1, 2020)

    Framework for Jewish communities to consider in returning to in-person communal activity

  • Letter Regarding COVID-19 Relief Priorities (May 1, 2020)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among 23 Jewish organizations writing to Speaker Pelosi and Minority Leader Schumer regarding priorities for COVID-19 relief.

  • Statement from the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association on Communal Gatherings during COVID-19 Pandemic (March 26, 2020)

    Based on our understanding of the science and the advice of experts, we, rabbis of the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association, strongly come down on the side of pikuach nefesh - preserving lives. Therefore, we are issuing these guidelines in preparation for the upcoming Passover holiday and in awareness of the likelihood of continued concern over disease spread at this time.

  • Jewish Community Statement Calling for Expanded Access to Nutrition Assistance Due to Coronavirus Crisis (March 24, 2020)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined more than 650 Jewish organizations and clergy in a letter calling for increased and expanded nutrition assistance in the midst of the coronavirus crisis.

  • Letter from Jewish Rohingya Justice Network to Senate Foreign Relations Committee (January 22, 2020)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined a letter urging the U.S. Senate to take up and pass the Burma Human Rights and Freedom Act of 2019 (S. 1186).

  • Statement on Hanukkah Antisemitic Attacks (December 30, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association are heartsick once again to learn of the recent spate of antisemitic attacks against members of the New York Jewish community.

  • Statement on Shooting at Chabad of Poway (April 28, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association send our deepest condolences and wishes of refu’ah shlaymah — full and complete healing — to all who were affected by the shooting at Chabad of Poway, California.

  • Statement on Easter Sunday Bombings in Sri Lanka (April 23, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association are shocked by and condemn the terrorist attacks carried out on Easter Sunday at multiple churches and other locations in Sri Lanka. With broken hearts, we stand in solidarity with the Christian communities of Sri Lanka, and with people in grief and shock around the world.

  • Jewish Rohingya Justice Network Supports Bipartisan Legislation on Burma (April 18, 2019)

    The American Jewish community stands united against the genocide of the Rohingya people and the persecution of all ethnic minorities in Burma. We applaud the bipartisan group of lawmakers in the Senate for their moral courage and leadership in introducing powerful legislation that would authorize humanitarian assistance for Rohingya refugees and hold the Burmese military officials responsible for this persecution accountable.

  • Statement on New Zealand Mosque Attacks (March 15, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association are horrified by and condemn the terrorist attacks carried out this morning against Muslims in New Zealand. Our hearts are broken and we are shaken. We stand in solidarity with the Muslim communities of the Al Noor and Linwood Mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, and all who are in shock, grief, and fear everywhere as a result of this devastating news.

  • Statement on the Pittsburgh Synagogue Massacre (October 30, 2018)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association mourn the devastating losses that a white nationalist domestic terrorist inflicted upon the Jewish community this past Shabbat morning at Tree of Life - Or L’Simcha Congregation in Pittsburgh. Included among the dead and wounded are members of our affiliate, Congregation Dor Hadash, which meets there.

  • Initial Statement on the Pittsburgh Shootings (October 27, 2018)

    We are shocked and horrified by the shootings at the Tree of Life Synagogue in the Squirrel Hill section of Pittsburgh. Our hearts, support and condolences go out to the community members of the Tree Of Life - Or L’Simcha Congregation, to the community members of our affiliated congregation, Congregation Dor Hadash, who were meeting at the Tree of Life Synagogue, and to the people of Pittsburgh.

  • Responding to Today's Tragedy (October 27, 2018)

    All of us at Reconstructing Judaism are still processing the shock, grief and heartbreak of the shooting that took place in Pittsburgh at Tree of Life - Or L’Simcha Congregation, which is also the home of our Reconstructionist affiliate, Congregation Dor Hadash.

  • Letter of Concern Regarding Human Rights in Burma (July 9, 2018)

    Reconstructing Judaism is among 46 organizations signing onto a letter of concern by Human Rights Watch about Burma’s human rights record, addressed to the US House and Senate Armed Services Committees. 

  • Statement on Nashville and Toronto (April 25, 2018)

    For those of us in North America, what words are adequate to this week’s domestic horrors happening in close succession and dominating headlines: the murder by gun of four people in Nashville and the murder with a van of ten and injury of countless others in Toronto? What actions can we take?

  • Open Letter on Burma Human Rights and Freedom Act (January 5, 2018)

    In the face of unconscionable atrocities against the Rohingya people by the Burmese military, RRC/Jewish Reconstructionist Communities joined a broad coalition of organizations from across the Jewish community to press for the immediate passage of the Burma Human Rights and Freedom Act of 2017.

  • Statement on Fire at URJ Camp Newman (October 16, 2017)

    Last week, amidst the tragic loss of life and widespread devastation from the ongoing wildfires in Northern California, we learned the heartbreaking news that much of URJ Camp Newman was destroyed by the fires. Together with the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College/Jewish Reconstructionist Communities and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association, all of us at Camp Havaya and Havaya Arts send our love and support as the community now works to rebuild.

  • Petition Against Fascism (August 18, 2017)

    A petition to the elected leadership of our country to take steps to stop the spread of fascism.

  • Statement on Terror Attack at Entrance to Temple Mount (July 14, 2017)

    Condemnation of terror attack at the entrance to the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. 

  • Statement on June 14 Shooting (June 14, 2017)

    We are deeply shocked by the shooting that targeted members of Congress and others. We fear that guns and bullets are replacing speech and debate, and we know that all those who believe in democracy and human dignity will not allow that to happen.

  • Statement on Terrorist Attacks (May 26, 2017)

    Statement on terrorist attacks on Egyptian Coptic Christians in May 2017

  • Statement on Petach Tikvah Open Market Terrorist Attack (February 9, 2017)

    RRC/Jewish Reconstructionist Communities and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association condemn today's terrorist attack in an open market in Petach Tikvah that wounded six people.

  • Statement on Terrorist Attack in Quebec (January 30, 2017)

    We at RRC/Jewish Reconstructionist Communities grieve for the victims of yesterday’s terrorist attack on worshipers at the Grande Mosquée de Québec.

  • Statement on Fires in Haifa (November 24, 2016)

    The Reconstructionist Movement expresses solidarity with Israel’s firefighters and emergency rescue services who are working tirelessly to combat the spread of multiple wildfires in the Haifa region.

  • Statement on October 9th Terrorist Attack (October 10, 2016)

    A condemnation of the 10/19/16 terrorist attack in Jerusalem

  • Joint Letter Urging Vote on Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act (September 28, 2016)

    Joint letter from Jewish organizations and rabbis urging action to protect Syrian civilians

  • Statement on Recent Acts of Violence (September 21, 2016)

    The leadership of the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College/Jewish Reconstructionist Communities and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers to the victims and families of the frightening acts of violence that have shaken several of our cities this weekend

  • Statement on the Orlando Attack: We Mourn, We Pray (June 14, 2016)

    In the wake of terror, a call to choose life and reject hate and intolerance.

  • Statement on Summer 2015 Violence in Israel (August 4, 2015)

    Statement addressing knife attack on Jerusalem LGBTQ parade and arson attack on Palestinian family. 

Death Penalty

Domestic Violence

  • Statement Urging Renewal of Violence Against Women Act (October 31, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined over 200 national and local organizations to urge the U.S. Senate to pass the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act.

Environment

Equal Protection

  • Letter Regarding November Updates to EEOC Religious Discrimination Compliance Manual (December 17, 2020)

    Reconstructing Judaism was among 51 organizations urging the Equal Opportunity Commission to withdraw or suspend its proposed changes to its Religious Discrimination Compliance Manual, due to lack of stakeholder consultation and public hearings with testimony from relevant stakeholders on religious discrimination.

  • Amicus Brief on School Prayer Case (Kennedy Vs. Bremerton School District) (September 29, 2020)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among 18 religious and non-profit organizations signing onto an amicus brief to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals in the case of Kennedy vs. Bremerton School District, in support of the school district’s efforts to protect students from religious coercion.

  • Amicus Brief Defending California Public Health Measures' Application to Religious Organizations (July 1, 2020)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined an amicus brief filed by religious and civil rights organizations supporting equal application of public health measures to religious organizations.

  • Amicus Brief Opposing Coerced Attendance at Religious Services (June 16, 2020)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined an array of interfaith groups in an amicus brief opposing mandatory attendance at religious services as a condition of parole. Forced religious indoctrination is a violation of religious liberty.

  • Amicus Brief Opposing Special Religious Exemptions to Generally Applicable Public Health Measures (June 12, 2020)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined an amicus brief filed by religious and civil rights organizations opposing special religious exemptions to generally applicable public health measures. 

  • Faith Groups Urge Prisons to Protect Religious Needs During COVID-19 and Ramadan (April 20, 2020)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined a group of 20 faith groups urging federal and state prison systems to accommodate the religious needs of all prisoners and avoid using the coronavirus crisis to restrict their constitutional right to worship, particularly drawing attention to the needs of Muslim prisoners with Ramadan projected to begin on April 24. The full letter is attached.

  • Amicus Brief Opposing Forcing States to Fund Religious Education (November 20, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism joined an amicus curiae brief arguing against forcing states to fund religious education in violation of state constitutional provisions that are designed to protect the independence of religious groups.

  • Letter in Opposition to "US Commission on Unalienable Rights" (July 23, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism joined 430 human rights, civil rights, faith, and professional organizations, leaders, and scholars in an open letter expressing deep concern about the State Department’s recently announced Commission on Unalienable Rights. The signers object to the Commission’s stated purpose, which they believe is harmful to the global effort to protect the rights of all peopl

  • Letter to Tennessee Legislation on Child Welfare (April 29, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were signatories to a letter objecting to the Tennessee legislature’s proposed legislation that would allow federally funded foster care and adoption agencies to practice taxpayer-funded religious discrimination against potential adoptive and foster parents.

  • Letter on Religious Discrimination in Foster Care (February 14, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined more than 100 organizations in protest of the recent decision to exempt federally funded foster care agencies in South Carolina from federal religious nondiscrimination protections.

Government

  • Access to Clean Water (November 4, 2020)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among 12 faith organizations endorsing a letter to Congress urging action to ensure universal access to clean water.

  • Letter to Senator Romney re: Supreme Court (September 29, 2020)

    Reconstructing Judaism joined a coalition of faith-based organization urging Senator Mitt Romney to reconsider his support for rushing through President Trump’s Supreme Court nominee with the Presidential election underway. 

  • Amicus Brief Supporting Unions (January 19, 2018)

    Reconstructionist organizations joined an amicus curiae brief by religious organizations in support of the rights of unions. 

  • Faith Organization Letter Against Funding the Commission on Election Integrity (July 20, 2017)

    RRC/JRC signed onto a letter by faith organizations opposing funding of the proposed “Commission on Election Integrity,” calling on Congress to resist efforts to restrict the right to vote.

  • Statement on Supreme Court Nominee Judge Neil Gorsuch (February 1, 2017)

    The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College/Jewish Reconstructionist Communities express grave concerns over the nomination of Judge Neil Gorsuch to the US Supreme Court to fill the seat left empty by the death of Justice Antonin Scalia almost one year ago. 

  • Statement on White House Appointment of Stephen Bannon (November 14, 2016)

    The Reconstructionist Rabbinical College and Jewish Reconstructionist Communities, along with the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association, urge Trump to reconsider appointment of Stephen Bannon to a senior White House post.

Gun Violence

  • Response to Buffalo Shooting (May 16, 2022)

    As leaders of Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association, we cry out in grief and pain at the senseless deaths of 11 people in Buffalo and Laguna Woods this past weekend. After we express our sorrow and our solidarity, we recommit to bringing to life a reality that counters the hatred and violence espoused by the shooter in Buffalo. We understand that the twisted rationale for this and other terroristic attacks on Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC), Jews, Muslims and Asians—attacks on our very existence and the existence of people we hold dear—is born out of fear. We will not succumb to violence inspired by those fears by shrinking away. The most powerful response we can offer is to continue working to create a society that maximizes the humanity and interdependence of all people, and teaching and modeling these precepts and practices in compelling ways. We do this by fighting to dismantle systemic racism. We do this by showing up as powerful coalition partners. And more than anything, we do this by deeply embracing Jewish wisdom and practice and demonstrating, in our words and our actions, the core Jewish teaching that all humans are created betzelem Elohim, in the image of the Divine. We remember that we are commanded  to love our neighbors as we love ourselves and we act on the recognition that each person is filled with a holy spark and inextricably interconnected with the whole of creation.

  • Statement on El Paso and Dayton Attacks (August 6, 2019)

    While raising our voices in prayer and condolences for the victims of this latest mass-shooting, we also raise our voices to call for the enactment and enforcement of reasonable gun laws throughout this country that would help prevent such tragedies. 

  • Response to Parkland, Florida Shooting (February 15, 2018)

    Statement in response to the Parkland, Florida shooting. While raising our voices in prayer and condolences for the victims of violence, we also raise our voices to call for the enactment and enforcement of reasonable gun laws throughout this country that would prevent such tragedies.

  • Statement on Las Vegas Shooting (October 2, 2017)

    Response to the violent shooting in Las Vegas that so far has ended 58 human lives and injured hundreds more.

Health Care

Israel

  • A mid-Passover message during a time of pain in Israel and Palestine (April 20, 2022)

    Three sacred seasons are overlapping - Passover, Ramadan, and Easter - days of holiness that celebrate liberation, humility, compassion, and rebirth. We dearly wish that we could be marking this confluence of holy days with celebrations of steady and courageous steps forward towards peace, justice, and co-existence in Israel and Palestine.

  • Statement on Terrorist Attacks in Israel (April 8, 2022)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association are horrified and saddened by yesterday’s terrorist attack in Tel Aviv, and by the recent attacks against Israelis in Beersheva, B’nei Brak, and Hadera.

  • Responding to Amnesty International’s report on Israel and the charge of apartheid (February 7, 2022)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association have issued the following statement in response to the recent Amnesty International report:

    Apartheid is one of the most shocking words in the English language, conjuring images of the brutal and racist South African regime that decades of struggle brought to an end in 1994. Last week, Amnesty International became the latest human rights organization to accuse Israel of the crime of apartheid. Amnesty’s report follows reports by Human Rights Watch and by the Israeli human rights organization, B’Tselem, both of which level the same charge. Over the past several days, we have taken the time needed to study Amnesty’s 280-page report and develop our response.

  • Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association join letter urging US Senate to fund Iron Dome replenishment (January 13, 2022)

    Today, Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association along with 10 other national Jewish organizations urged the Senate to quickly approve funding for the replenishment of Israel’s Iron Dome air defense system. While the House overwhelmingly voted, on a bipartisan basis, to fund its replenishment last year, the legislation has stalled in the Senate.

  • Reconstructing Judaism joins Progressive Israel Network to welcome indefinite postponement of settlement construction in E-1 Area (January 11, 2022)

    The Progressive Israel Network (PIN) welcomes the news that the Israeli government will not be building Jewish settlements in the E-1 for the near future. We applaud the Biden Administration’s efforts to prevent such construction, and urge them to continue to push back against settlement expansion more broadly.

  • Calling on Gantz to reconsider designation of Palestinian human rights and civil society groups as “terrorists” (November 1, 2021)

    The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association (RRA) and Reconstructing Judaism express deep concern over last week’s decision by Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz to declare six Palestinian human rights groups to be “terror organizations.” Absent compelling evidence, this policy enacts a draconian measure that will criminalize critical human rights work.

  • Statement on the Spiraling Violence between Israelis and Palestinians (May 14, 2021)

    The spiraling violence that began in Jerusalem and now includes all of Israel, Gaza, and the West Bank is heartbreaking and frightening. We condemn the rocket attacks by Hamas and Islamic Jihad that have targeted civilians, claimed Israeli lives, and terrified children. We also mourn the scores of dead in Gaza, including dozens of children, and we call on Israel’s leaders to remember that their powerful military response can be devastating for families and children there.

  • A Welcome Israeli Supreme Court Ruling on Non-Orthodox Conversions (March 4, 2021)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association welcome the recently announced landmark ruling by Israel’s Supreme Court to recognize non-Orthodox conversions carried out in Israel for the purposes of matters relating to eligibility for Israeli citizenship. 

  • Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association join chorus of Jewish voices opposing KKL-JNF plan to purchase West Bank land to expand settlements (February 19, 2021)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association strongly oppose the plan of Keren Kayemet L’Israel / Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) to expand Jewish settlements by purchasing private land in the West Bank. We join our friends and colleagues in the Reform movement, the Masorti (Conservative) movement, Liberal Judaism (UK), the Reform Movement in Israel, the World Union for Progressive Judaism, and many others in the global Jewish community in speaking out against this plan. 

  • In support of Israeli organizations urging their government to provide immediate access to the COVID-19 vaccination in the West Bank and Gaza (February 5, 2021)

    We join the call of the many Israeli organizations that are urging their leaders to act quickly and cooperatively with the Palestinian Authority to develop a vaccination plan that will meet the urgent public health needs of everyone living in Israel and the Palestinian Territories. Because COVID-19 knows no boundaries, the wellbeing of Palestinians is inextricably connected to that of Israelis.

  • Progressive Israel Network Groups Oppose Codification of IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism, Citing Strong Potential for Misuse (January 12, 2021)

    As organizations that care deeply about the State of Israel and about the wellbeing of the Jewish people, we are deeply committed to the struggle against antisemitism. We are thus obligated to share our concerns about ways in which the effort to combat antisemitism is being misused and exploited to instead suppress legitimate free speech, criticism of Israeli government actions, and advocacy for Palestinian rights. In particular, the effort to enshrine in domestic law and institutional policy the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) Working Definition of Antisemitism, with its accompanying “contemporary examples,” risks wrongly equating what may be legitimate activities with antisemitism. 

  • Reconstructing Judaism joins Progressive Israel Network in Opposing New Settlement Expansion Moves (December 8, 2020)

    We are alarmed by the recent set of moves by the government of Israel to initiate settlement projects and take other provocative and harmful actions in East Jerusalem and the West Bank, including home demolitions and forced evictions, which further damage the possibility of a negotiated future two-state solution.

  • Against Annexation (July 10, 2020)

    We strongly support Senator Chris Van Hollen’s proposed amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act, which stipulates that US security assistance to Israel cannot be used to implement unilateral annexation in the West Bank.

  • Support Project Rozana (July 6, 2020)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association are encouraging congregations and individuals to support this life-saving fund-raising effort organized by Project Rozana, a well-respected international non-profit organization that is leading a project supported by both Israel and the Palestinian Authority to purchase badly needed ventilators for West Bank and Gaza hospitals in light of the current COVID-19 spike in the region, which threatens to overwhelm Palestinian hospital ICUs.

  • Over 600 Jewish Clergy Call on the Israeli Government to Abandon Plans for Annexing the West Bank (June 18, 2020)

    More than 600 rabbis, cantors and seminary students from across the country — including many Reconstructionist rabbis and rabbinic students — have signed on to a public letter warning that the Israeli government’s threatened unilateral annexation in the West Bank “would be a catastrophic mistake…violate human rights, weaken democracy, and make Israelis and Palestinians less secure.”

  • Ten American Jewish Organizations Send Letter to Gantz, Ashkenazi Opposing Annexation (June 17, 2020)

    Members of the Progressive Israel Network penned the following letter to Alternate Prime Minister Benny Gantz and Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi opposing annexation.

  • Annexation Endangers the Security and Democracy of Israel (May 21, 2020)

    Recontructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association are signatories to the following appeal from J-Link, an international network of progressive Jewish organizations from
    Israel, the United States, Canada, Europe, Latin America, South Africa, and Australia.

  • Statement on New Settlement Expansion Announcements (February 27, 2020)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association are alarmed by the Netanyahu government’s recent announcement that seeks to expand settlements in a way that would cut through Palestinian population centers and deny contiguity to a future Palestinian state. Previous Republican and Democratic US administrations have rejected similar plans with good reason. We call on the Netanyahu government to cancel these plans, and we call on all American Jewish organizations that support a two-state solution to join in this urgent message. We continue to oppose unilateral territorial annexation on the part of the Israeli government, and we remain committed to a just, democratic, and peaceful future for Israelis and Palestinians within a framework of two states for two peoples.

  • Statement on Trump Proposal on Israeli-Palestinian Conflict (January 29, 2020)

    For decades Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association have advocated for a negotiated, two-state resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict based on security, dignity, human rights, and freedom for Israelis and Palestinians alike.

  • Progressive Israel Network Commends Passage of House Resolution 326 Opposing Annexation, Supporting Two-State Solution (December 9, 2019)

    As leading progressive pro-Israel organizations in the American Jewish community, we commend the House of Representatives for passing House Resolution 326. This landmark resolution, which reaffirms support for a two-state solution, marks the first time the House has formally opposed unilateral Israeli annexation of the West Bank and asserted longstanding US opposition to settlements.

  • Response to US Policy Shift on Settlement Legality (November 20, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association are disappointed by and strongly oppose the recent policy statement by U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo declaring that the U.S. no longer views Israeli West Bank settlements as inconsistent with international law.

  • Statement on Recent Rocket Attacks on Israel (November 13, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association condemn the 300 rockets indiscriminately launched at Israel from the Gaza Strip over the past few days.

  • Letter to Israeli Political Leadership Opposing Annexation (November 5, 2019)

    As heads of American Jewish organizations who care deeply about the State of Israel and are committed to safeguarding its future as a democratic homeland for the Jewish people, we implore you to consider the costs of any unilateral annexations in the West Bank, and ask that you refuse to support annexation as a policy guideline for any government that your party may join.

  • Statement Opposing Netanyahu’s Annexation Pledge (September 10, 2019)

    Both Israelis and Palestinians want and deserve to live in peace, with justice and dignity. Israelis deserve to live in a healthy and vibrant democracy. Palestinians deserve to live free from occupation.
     

  • Statement on Israeli Government Decision to Bar Entry to Reps. Omar and Tlaib (August 15, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association strongly oppose the decision of the Government of Israel to deny entry into Israel to U.S. Congressional Representatives Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib.

  • Rabbi Deborah Waxman co-authors op-ed on xenophobic dangers and democratic hopes in Israel and U.S. (July 26, 2019)

    These demagogues sow fear and stoke racial tension. They promote an exclusivist, chauvinist white nationalism. But they will not win. Jewish history teaches us that tyranny cannot sustain itself. From Pharaoh to the Roman Emperors to the monarchs who expelled us from multiple parts of Europe, Jews have outlasted the tyrants who have sought our destruction. And we American Jews know that the only way for the Israel-America friendship to survive — and not be tossed out along with these demagogues — is to center our democratic values.

  • New Progressive Israel Network Launched By Ten Leading Jewish Organizations (June 24, 2019)

    Today, ten leading organizations representing Americans who are committed to pursuing democracy, equality and peace in Israel announced the launch of the Progressive Israel Network. The new coalition will provide a strong, unified voice in support of its members’ common goals: democracy and equal rights, religious freedom and pluralism, and a two-state solution that would secure a peaceful future for Israel and end the 52-year-long occupation.

  • Endorsement of House Resolution in Support of Two-State Solution (June 19, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism joins nine other Jewish organizations in endorsing House Resolution 326, which reaffirms longstanding bipartisan support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and opposes any US actions that would encourage or endorse unilateral Israeli annexations in the West Bank. 

  • Invitation to Support Israelis Opposing Kahanists in Knesset (March 4, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism invites communities to show solidarity with thousands of Israelis who are taking action to try to prevent Kahanists from being allowed to enter the Knesset.

  • Kahanists are a Danger to Israelis and Israeli Democracy (February 21, 2019)

    We call on our colleagues in the American Jewish community and Jewish organizations to stand for democracy and equality and join us in affirming that Kahanists have no place in the Knesset.

  • Statement on Recent Events in Israel (December 14, 2018)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association condemn and are saddened by the recent terror attacks by Palestinian extremists against Israeli soldiers, police and civilians in the West Bank and Jerusalem.

  • Statement on October 7th Terrorist Attack (October 8, 2018)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association condemn the terrorist attack that killed two Israeli civilians. Terrorism is never justified and will not help end the Occupation of the West Bank, nor will it pave the way to a lasting, fair peace agreement. May those who work for peace, justice, and reconciliation throughout the region be strengthened in their work and their ideals.  

  • Response to Murder of Ari Fuld (September 17, 2018)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association condemn the stabbing attack carried out by a Palestinian youth that killed Ari Fuld, an American-Israeli father of four, at the Etzion junction in the West Bank.

  • Statement on Israel's Passage of Nation State Law (July 19, 2018)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association strongly oppose the Nation State Law that the Knesset has now established as one of Israel’s Basic Laws, which carry constitutional weight.

  • Statement on Recent Events in Israel and Gaza (May 16, 2018)

    A statement from Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association

  • An Open Letter Concerning the Safety and Future of African Asylum Seekers (April 5, 2018)

    In an open letter to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Reconstructing Judaism and the other undersigned organizations urge him to pursue a humane solution for the 39,000 asylum seekers currently within Israel’s borders.

  • Responding to Recent Events Involving Israel’s African Asylum Seekers (April 5, 2018)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association (RRA) urge Prime Minister Netanyahu’s government to reconsider its decision to abandon the agreement it initially announced it had struck with the United Nations refugee agency, UNHCR, on April 2, 2018.

  • Response to Recent Violence on Gaza Border (April 3, 2018)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association (RRA) are deeply saddened and concerned following the deaths of approximately 18 Palestinians,  and the wounding of many others, by Israeli army fire during last Friday’s Palestinian-led marches near the border fence between Gaza and Israel.

  • Letter Urging Israel to Halt Deportation of Asylum-Seekers (January 22, 2018)

    Reconstructionist leaders were among the early signatories of this letter urging the Israeli government to stop the deportations of asylum seekers from Sudan and Eritrea who have sought refuge in Israel.

  • Joint Statement on Recent Abbas Speech (January 18, 2018)

    We strongly condemn the recent public remarks made by Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, which contribute to undermining prospects for a viable peace process.

  • Statement on Israeli Government Blacklist (January 9, 2018)

    Statement expressing disappointment in Israeli government’s viewpoint-based blacklist on entry into Israel

  • Reconstructionist Statement on Trump Announcement Recognizing Jerusalem as Capital (December 6, 2017)

    Statement on President Trump’s decision to formally recognize Jerusalem as Israel’s capital.

  • Statement on Use of Force Against Reform Leaders at the Kotel (November 17, 2017)

    We stand in solidarity with the leaders of the Reform movement who were confronted with force by police and Western Wall security personnel as they attempted to carry Torah scrolls to the site.

  • Statement on the Har Adar Terrorist Attack (September 28, 2017)

    RRC / Jewish Reconstructionist Communities and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association condemn the terrorist attack that took place in the West Bank settlement of Har Adar.

  • Statement on July Violence in Israel (July 25, 2017)

    Statement condemning recent terror attack and addressing Temple Mount violence

  • Endorsement of Letter on Middle-East Peace (July 24, 2017)

    Reconstructionist leaders were among the 35 Jewish, Christian, and Muslim national religious leaders sending a letter to President Trump agreeing that Israeli-Palestinian peace is possible. 

  • Statement on Cancellation of Western Wall Agreement (June 26, 2017)

    The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College/Jewish Reconstructionist Communities jointly condemn Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision to cancel an agreement that would have allowed for mixed and egalitarian prayer services at the Western Wall in Jerusalem.  

  • Joint Statement on Israel Conversion Bill (May 16, 2017)

    RRC/Jewish Reconstructionist Communities joined a statement strongly opposing a bill proposed by Israel’s Ministry of the Interior, which would nullify Israel’s recognition of Reform and Conservative conversions performed in Israel, as well as overturn Israel’s High Court ruling requiring the Ministry to recognize Orthodox conversions performed by private rabbinic courts.

  • Statement on the Israeli Knesset’s Passage of the “Entry Bill” (March 10, 2017)

    The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association (RRA) and RRC/Jewish Reconstructionist Communities (RRC/JRC) are strongly opposed to and deeply disappointed by the Israeli Knesset’s passage of the “Entry Bill.”

  • Statement on Knesset Law that Retroactively Authorizes Settlement Outposts (February 8, 2017)

    The Reconstructionist movement opposes the Knesset's passage of the Regularization Bill.

  • Statement on Proposed David Friedman Ambassadorship (December 20, 2016)

    The Reconstructionist movement’s statement on President-Elect Trump’s plan to appoint David Friedman as the next U.S. Ambassador to Israel

  • Statement Condemning UNESCO's Temple Mount Resolution (October 14, 2016)

    UNESCO’s resolution denying the Jewish history of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem flies in the face of scholarship and history and is in no way helpful to the goal of peace.

  • Mourning a Statesman, Peacemaker, and Legend (September 28, 2016)

    The Reconstructionist Rabbinical College, Jewish Reconstructionist Communities and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association mourn the loss of Shimon Peres, z’l, one of the most important and influential founders and shapers of the State of Israel.

  • Statement on Historic Western Wall Compromise (February 17, 2016)
    he Reconstructionist movement is overjoyed that on Jan 31, 2016, the Israeli cabinet voted to dramatically expand the space for egalitarian prayer at the Kotel. This is a blessed and welcome decision.

LGBTQ

Peace and War

  • In solidarity with Ukraine (February 25, 2022)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association join countless nations and faith communities around the world in condemning the unprovoked and brutal Russian military invasion of Ukraine. 

    Reconstructionist congregations are part of the World Union for Progressive Judaism (WUPJ), which is also home to ten Ukrainian synagogues. We hold them, the entire Ukrainian Jewish community, and all the people of Ukraine in our hearts. 

  • Resolution on Rohingya Genocide (May 15, 2019)

    In May of 2019, the board of Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association adopted this resolution condemining genocide of the Rohingya people of Burma and urging action.

Pluralism

Prejudice, Bigotry and Racial Justice

  • National Endowment for the Humanities Funds the Center for Jewish Ethics for Groundbreaking, Project on Race, Racism and American Judaism (November 24, 2021)

    The Center for Jewish Ethics at the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College has received a transformative grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) to fund cross-disciplinary research into race, racism and the American Jewish experience. The center’s aims have an impact far beyond the academy by developing educational materials and programs for youth, individual adult learners, and communities. 

    The one-year, $199,850 grant will enable the Levin-Lieber Program in Jewish Ethics to establish and run a new initiative tentatively called “Race, Religion and American Judaism: Cross-Disciplinary Research, Public Scholarship and Curriculum Development.”

  • Jewish Organizational Letter on U.S. Special Envoy (November 11, 2021)

    We, the undersigned 21 national Jewish organizations, including the four streams of American Judaism, write to urge you to swiftly fill the position of U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism by considering the current nominee. Filling this position is a high priority for our organizations and of utmost importance in fighting growing antisemitism and hate worldwide.

  • Responding to antisemitism by growing community, deepening commitments and building coalitions (October 28, 2021)

    On Sunday Oct. 28, 2018 — one day after the deadliest day in American Jewish history — I mourned with members of Congregation Dor Hadash. The Pittsburgh Reconstructionist congregation met in the Tree of Life building and had lost one of its own, Dr. Jerry Rabinowitz (z”l). Another member, Dan Leger, clung to life. Virtually every member of the congregation had gathered in solidarity. People were understandably raw, numb and devastated. Yet, in their commitment to mutual support, I was reminded of the awesome power of Jewish community to cultivate resilience in the face of pain and threat, including violent antisemitism.

    In these polarized times, discourse over how best to confront antisemitism has often been visceral and sometimes taken on hyperbolic tones. At Reconstructing Judaism, we believe there are several steps toward a vigorous and constructive fight against rising antisemitism.

  • Jewish Rohingya Justice Network Applauds Introduction of The Bipartisan, Bicameral Burma Act (October 6, 2021)

    The Jewish Rohingya Justice Network applauds House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Gregory W. Meeks (D-NY), House Foreign Affairs Asia-Pacific Subcommittee Ranking Member Steve Chabot (R-OH) and Senator Benjamin L. Cardin (D-MD) for their leadership in introducing the Burma Unified through Rigorous Military Accountability Act of 2021 or the BURMA Act. This legislation comes at a critical moment for all of the people of Burma, including the Rohingya people, and we call on every member of Congress to support this bill’s passage without delay.

  • Creating Radically Welcoming Communities (July 19, 2021)

    In this workshop, Rabbi Lawson addresses the question, “What do our Jewish texts and values say about welcoming others into our communities?”

  • Statement on the No Fear Rally (July 9, 2021)

    Although Reconstructing Judaism has not been asked to participate in the No Fear rally, and has therefore had no opportunity to participate in its messaging or planning, we endorse it in principle because we are firmly opposed to antisemitism and, in our efforts to foster engaged and substantive Jewish life and in our tikkun olam and public square work, we act continuously to counter it. 

  • Reconstructing Judaism Adopts Commitments on Racial Justice (June 15, 2021)

    The Board of Governors of Reconstructing Judaism has adopted a comprehensive set of commitments to racial justice.

  • National Jewish Organizational Letter to Congress in Support of AAPI Communities (March 25, 2021)

    Reconstructing Judaism joined a wide-ranging group of Jewish communal organizations in sending a letter to Congressional leadership urging support of and solidarity with Asian American and Pacific Islander communities.

  • Statement Condemning Atlanta Attack (March 18, 2021)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association mourn the devastating loss of life Tuesday in Atlanta, Georgia. Our hearts are filled with sorrow as we learn of the targeting of Asian American women. We stand with Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) members of our Jewish community and with the broader AAPI community in grief and solidarity for those lost

  • Letter Opposing Confirmation of Anthony Tata (July 1, 2020)

    Reconstructing Judaism joined a coalition of civil rights groups to sign a letter opposing the Senate confirmation of Anthony Tata to a central Pentagon post due to his history of bigoted statements and actions. 

  • 500+ Jewish Organizations and Synagogues say: Black Lives Matter (June 25, 2020)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among more than 500 Jewish organizations from across the racial and political spectrum; from different streams of Judaism; whose members trace their lineage from countries around the world; speaking with one voice to say that Black Lives Matter.

  • Jewish And Pro-Israel Organizations Must Not Tolerate The Bigotry Of ZOA’s Morton Klein (June 11, 2020)

    As progressive pro-Israel organizations and members of the American Jewish community, we are appalled and outraged by the bigotry and hatred expressed and promoted by Morton Klein, president of the Zionist Organization of America (ZOA), at this painful and important moment of reckoning for our country. Klein’s latest outbursts and long track record of bigotry should make him unwelcome in any mainstream Jewish communal spaces and should lead to his expulsion from organizational umbrella groups such as the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations. 

  • Letter Opposing Racial Profiling of Pregnant People Seeking to Enter U.S. (February 4, 2020)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among 156 signatories to join a letter from the National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum, calling on Secretary Pompeo to end the US policy targeting pregnant people of color and making it harder for them to travel and visit their families.

  • Interfaith Open Letter: Stephen Miller Must Resign (January 14, 2020)

    As a diverse coalition of interfaith partners dedicated to moral and humane immigration policies, we demand the immediate resignation of White House Senior Policy Advisor Stephen Miller. We believe that all people deserve to be treated with dignity, regardless of their immigration status. Our varied faith traditions mandate us to welcome the stranger, love each other, and protect the most vulnerable among us.

  • US Jewish Movements: President Trump Must Fire Stephen Miller (November 22, 2019)

    As entities who represent a broad diversity of American Jewish life, we share a deep concern about White House advisor Stephen Miller’s support for white supremacist ideology and the disturbing ways in which his dangerous views have influenced U.S. immigration policy.  Such views have no place in the White House or as a basis of American policy.

  • One Year After Pittsburgh, Jews and Allies Pledge Solidarity (October 24, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism was among fifteen organizations co-sponsoring the following statement, which was organized by Bend the Arc.

  • Letter to New York Times Regarding Antisemitic Cartoon (May 3, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism was a signatory to a letter that the the Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA) sent to the New York Times Executive Editor condemning the Antisemitic cartoon published on April 25, 2019, and urging tangible steps to ensure that such inflammatory material will not be published in the future.

  • Letter in support of the Never Again (Holocaust) Education Act (April 8, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among more than 300 organizations to support the Never Again Education Act (H.R. 943). The attached letter, sent to the chair and ranking member of the House Committee on Education and Labor, urges the swift passage of the bill, which uses public funding and private donations to provide teachers with resources and training on lessons of the Holocaust and the consequences of bigotry and hate.

  • Joint Letter Urging Secretary of State to Fill Anti-Semitism Special Envoy Position (May 29, 2018)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among the organizational signatories of a letter directed to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, urging him to fill the vacant position of Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism. 

  • National Jewish Group Letter supporting the Americans with Disabilities Act (April 10, 2018)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among the 55 national Jewish groups joining together in a letter to Senate leaders opposing the House-passed ADA Education and Reform Act (H.R. 620), legislation which would turn back the clock on the civil rights of people with disabilities by weakening the 28-year old Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

  • Statement by the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association on Foregoing Annual High Holy Day Call with Trump (August 23, 2017)

    The RRA and America’s other leading rabbinic organizations have decided, in light of  President Trump’s statements during and after the tragic events in Charlottesville, so lacking in moral leadership and empathy for the victims of racial and religious hatred, that we cannot organize a rabbinic call with the president this year. 

  • Response to Charlottesville (August 14, 2017)

    We condemn in the strongest terms the white supremacist groups that gathered in Charlottesville, VA, over the weekend to promote racism, anti-Semitism, and other ideologies of bigotry, and we mourn with the families of the murdered protestor and of the law enforcement officials who were killed in the line of duty. 

  • Public Letter on Anti-Muslim Marches (June 9, 2017)

    Reconstructionist leaders joined other faith leaders in a letter from Shoulder to Shoulder speaking out against anti-Muslim behavior. Shoulder to Shoulder is a coalition of 32 religious denominations and organizations committed to standing with American Muslims to uphold American values.

  • Statement Following the Presidential Election (November 11, 2016)

    A statement following the Presidential election

  • Joint Letter on Racism, Xenophobia and Violence in 2016 Campaign (July 7, 2016)

    Joint letter from 28 Jewish groups imploring political candidates to put an end to the racism, anti-Semitism and xenophobia that has emerged in this year’s campaign.

  • Statement Urging AIPAC to Rescind Donald Trump Invitation (March 17, 2016)

    A statement from Reconstructionist movement leaders regarding Trump’s invitation to speak at AIPAC.

Immigration and Refugees

  • Reconstructing Judaism Joins More than 375 Interfaith Groups Urging Biden to Expedite Refugee Efforts (March 22, 2022)

    Following Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s March 16 speech to Congress, more than 375 Jewish and other faith-based groups and organizations urged President Joe Biden to take immediate steps to welcome refugees from Ukraine. Jewish Federations of North America spearheaded the letter, sent March 18.

  • Jewish Organizational Letter on Refugee and Asylum Priorities During COVID-19 (May 1, 2020)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among 192 Jewish organizations to urge Congress to insure that COVID-19 response includes refugees and asylum seekers.

  • Letter on Asylum Seekers and "Remain in Mexico" Policy (March 6, 2020)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Organization were among 153 signatories to a letter urging the Department of Homeland Security to end its “Migrant Protection Protocols” preventing asylum seekers from seeking refugee protection in the United States.

  • Please Join in the National Refugee Shabbat (February 10, 2020)

    We urge every Reconstructionist community to stand with Dor Hadash and HIAS this coming March by participating in National Refugee Shabbat. In this way, we act on our values and gain strength from each other to create the world in which we want to live.

  • Interfaith Amicus Brief Opposing Indefinite Detention of Immigrant Families (January 28, 2020)

    We join more than 40 faith and interfaith organizations to oppose new Trump administration regulations that would authorize indefinite detention of families with children during the course of their immigration proceedings.

  • Endorsement of HEAL for Immigrant Women and Families Act (October 7, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism endorses the Health Equity and Access under the Law (HEAL) for Immigrant Women and Families Act of 2019

  • Jewish Rohingya Justice Network Letter to Under Secretary Mandelker (August 22, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association have joined with 18 organizations, representing the Jewish Rohingya Justice Network, in calling for justice and accountability for the Rohingya people and all ethnic minorities in Burma.

  • Statement on Violence Against Jewish Protesters at ICE Detention Center (August 15, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association condemn the violence committed against peaceful protestors at the entrance to an ICE detention center in Rhode Island.

  • Joint Letter on Refugee Policy (August 8, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association have joined with 166 Jewish organizations and institutions in urging the United States to return to historic numbers for refugee resettlement. “The United States has historically distinguished itself as a beacon of hope and as a safe haven for those who most need it… Resettling zero refugees in the U.S. in FY2020 would effectively gut the refugee resettlement program, violate our values as Jews and Americans, and abdicate the American promise of freedom and opportunity.”

  • Letter opposing nomination of Ronald Mortensen (March 27, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among sixteen national Jewish organizations signing onto a letter of opposition to the nomination of Ronald Mortensen, an anti-immigrant extremist, as assistant secretary of state for the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration.

  • Jewish Communal Letter on Refugee Admissions (August 16, 2018)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association were among the 36 Jewish organizations that signed onto a letter urging President Trump to support a safe and strong U.S. refugee admissions program that represents the best of America.

  • Joint Statement on Immigration (June 27, 2018)

    The leadership of Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association condemn with horror the travesty that has become our immigration system under the administration of U.S. President Donald J. Trump.

  • Jewish Letter on Family Separation (June 12, 2018)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association stand with other national Jewish organizations to protest the Trump administration’s immigration policies that separate children from their parents.

  • Jewish Support for Dreamers: A Self-Evident Truth (February 7, 2018)

    We call on our elected officials to allow Dreamers to remain in the United States and provide a path to citizenship.

  • National Jewish Letter on DREAM Act (January 17, 2018)

    RRC/JRC signed onto a letter urging members of Congress to support the bipartisan DREAM Act.

  • Statement on Decision to End Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals program (September 6, 2017)

    The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College/Jewish Reconstructionist Communities are strongly opposed to President Trump’s recently announced decision to end the Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals or DACA and put the lives of over 800,000 young people in America at risk.

  • Joint Letter Opposing H2431 ("SAFE Act") (May 17, 2017)

    RRC and Jewish Reconstructionist Communities were among nearly 200 local and national organizations to sign this joint letter asking House Judiciary Committee members to oppose H.R. 2431 as a draconian measure that would criminalize undocumented immigrants and undermine due process protections. 

  • Joint Letter Urging Support for Haitians at Risk of Deportation (May 1, 2017)

    RRC/JRC joined more than 400 faith leaders and organizations in this letter urging Secretary of Homeland Security John Kelly to extend Haitian refugees’ Temporary Protected Status.

  • Joint Letter Calling for Syrian Refugee Resettlement (April 27, 2017)

    On April 27th, RRC/JRC co-signed a letter with 36 national organizations calling on President Trump to resettle more Syrian refugees after the horrific chemical attacks on Syrians earlier in the month.

  • Amicus Brief: Opposing Travel and Refugee Ban, 9th Circuit (April 20, 2017)

    Reconstructionist institutions signed onto an interfaith Amicus Curiae brief to the 9th Circuit opposing the Executive Order travel ban.

  • Amicus Brief: Opposing Travel and Refugee Ban, 4th Circuit (April 19, 2017)

    Reconstructionist institutions signed onto an interfaith Amicus Curiae brief to the 4th Circuit opposing the Executive Order travel ban.

  • Statement on President Trump's Executive Order Concerning Refugees (January 26, 2017)

    We are dismayed as President Trump prepares to take action to close the doors to thousands of refugees seeking shelter and relief from the humanitarian crisis in which they find themselves.

  • Letter Opposing H.R. 4731's Dismantling of Refugee Program (March 15, 2016)

    RRC/JRC joined a letter signed by 234 organizations opposing H.R. 4731, the “Refugee Program Integrity Restoration Act of 2016,” which would have dismantled the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program.

  • Welcoming the Stranger, Living Our Values (January 26, 2016)

    In an op-ed piece in Philadelphia’s Jewish Exponent, Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., compellingly argues in favor of a robust and compassionate refugee program. 

Reproductive Freedom

  • The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association and Reconstructing Judaism affirm their strong commitment to reproductive justice and abortion rights in light of leaked SCOTUS draft. (May 3, 2022)

    The Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association and Reconstructing Judaism are deeply dismayed to learn of the leaked draft opinion of the Supreme Court indicating that Roe v. Wade, the landmark decision guaranteeing the right to an abortion, will be overturned imminently.

  • Women’s Health Protection Act (WHPA) (March 8, 2022)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined more than 130 other faith and civil rights organizations on a letter urging the Senate to pass the Women’s Health Protection Act (WHPA),  which would create a new tool for safeguarding access to high-quality abortion care and securing constitutional rights by protecting patients and providers from dangerous political interference. While the bill did not garner enough votes needed to pass this time around, we are proud to have stood with this coalition for reproductive justice and will continue to do so in the weeks, months, and years ahead. 

  • Amicus Brief Opposing Overbroad Exemptions to ACA Contraception Mandate (January 3, 2020)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined Americans United, ADL, and a variety of other religious and civil liberties organizations in an amicus brief opposing overbroad accomodation of employers refusing to participate in the Affordable Care Act’s requirements regarding contraception coverage. The U.S. Constitution’s Establishment Clause forbids the government to shift the costs and burdens of objectors’ religious beliefs onto third parties, and an accommodation without a demonstrated substantial burden on religion is an unconstitutional religious preference. 

  • Interfaith Letter in Support of Title X Funding (November 20, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association joined an interfaith letter to the Senate Appropriations Committee, urging them to block implementation of the proposed “gag rule” affecting the Title X family planning program. 

  • Amicus Brief Challenging Excessively-Broad Religious Exemptions for Health Care Employees (October 7, 2019)

    Reconstructing Judaism joined an amicus brief submitted by the ADL and Americans United for Separation of Church and State to challenge the Conscience Rights in Health Care Rule issued by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services in 2018. 

  • Amicus brief in California vs. Azar (May 30, 2018)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association signed onto an amicus curiae brief challenging religious organizations’ claim to be exempt from from providing, and empowered  to block access to, women’s contraceptive services for their employees. Reconstructing Judaism believes both in the importance of the separation of church and state and that the reproductive rights of women must be preserved and protected.

  • Joint Letter Supporting EACH Woman Act (October 22, 2015)

    Joint letter from 20 American Jewish organizations and communities supporting the EACH Woman Act to end bans on abortion coverage.

Voting Rights

  • Letter Supporting the For The People Act (H.R. 1/S.1) (March 23, 2021)

    Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Associations were among 79 national Jewish organizations urging members of Congress to pass the For The People Act (H.R.1/S.1) in order to enhance fairness, integrity and transparancy in our elections, create a democracy that values all voices, and build a more just society.