Racial Diversity and Equity Working Group
Mission
The Racial Diversity & Equity Working Group’s (RDE) mission is to increase the Or Atid community’s understanding of and appreciation for diversity within Judaism, and to engage our community in education, introspection, and action against racism within our congregation and society at large.
We welcome involvement of Or Atid members and partnership with the broader community - reach out to racialjustice@congregationoratid.org to connect!
Vision
Our vision is of a welcoming and safe space for people of all races within Or Atid and within Metrowest Boston at large.
We envision an Or Atid community that values diversity and introspection, that encourages a racially conscious and sensitive membership, and engages meaningfully with local partners.
We envision a Judaism that is enriched through and affirming of the variety of Jewish practice and culture around the world.
Our work will focus around racial diversity and we acknowledge the need to address other areas of inclusion, such as gender, sexuality, ability, and class.
Goals
Our goals are:
- To provide opportunities for the Or Atid community to learn about diversity in the Jewish diaspora, historically and today (for example, in Iran, Italy, China, and India)
- To provide opportunities for the Or Atid community to learn about and discuss race and racism in the Jewish community, in Metrowest Boston, and in society at large
- To provide educational resources such as books, films, and articles to community members to broaden our understanding of past and present Jewish culture and to help challenge assumptions and biases
- To partner with other Or Atid committees and initiatives to ensure awareness of diversity and racial justice is woven into our decision-making processes
- To partner with local organizations working to repair wrongs and eliminate disadvantages that have disproportionately affected Black, Latinx, Hispanic, Native American, Asian American, Pacific Islander, bi-racial, and multi-racial individuals.
Upcoming Events
For information about upcoming events, please check the Oracle or email us at racialjustice@congregationoratid.org
Resources
See our Or Atid Racial Equity and Diversity Recommendations for books, articles, documentaries, and more to further your education on racial equity and diversity within the Jewish community and beyond.
