Rabbanit Sharona Halickman at Uri L'Tzedek on "Fulfilling the Goals of Israel's Declaration of Independence" Source sheet from this class: https://docs.google.com/document/d/19H5B_iJlFVrS2HyvZroJUOdS9cpARgOgLEioTI-K-Ro/edit?tab=t.0 We’d love to have you join us for our upcoming classes so please sign up here → https://linktr.ee/utzedek — Rabbanit S…

Abby Levine (she/her) is the first executive director of the Jewish Social Justice Roundtable. Under her leadership, the Roundtable has tripled in size, supported sector-wide efforts on civic engagement and racial equity, inclusion, and diversity, and organized two conferences of 150 people from across the network. Previously, Abby led a coalition …

Prior to OLAM, Dyonna served as Director of Education and Service Learning at The Jewish Agency; Executive Director of Bema'aglei Tzedek, an Israeli social change NGO; and co-founder of Siach, a global network of Jewish social justice and environmental professionals. ‍ A frequent lecturer, Dyonna was named "one of Israel's 50 most inspiring women" …

Rabbi Daniel Ross Goodman is the Allen and Joan Bildner Visiting Scholar in Jewish Studies at Rutgers University and the author of three books, including Soloveitchik's Children: Irving Greenberg, David Hartman, Jonathan Sacks, and the Future of Jewish Theology in America (University of Alabama Press, 2023) Register for our upcoming classes here: h…

Rabbanit Sharona Margolin Halickman was the first Congregational intern and Madricha Ruchanit at the Hebrew Institute of Riverdale (1997-2004) where she provided religious education and spiritual direction for the community. She is a graduate of Yeshiva University (BA and MS) as well as Matan’s Eshkolot (Tanach) and Hilkheta programs. Sharona is th…

Professor Corinna Lain is the S. D. Roberts & Sandra Moore Professor of Law at the University of Richmond School of Law. Professor Lain’s scholarship focuses on two areas—Supreme Court decision-making and the death penalty—and she has published numerous articles and essays about lethal injection over the last decade. Her work has appeared in the na…

Sign up for our next class, happening October 16: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_5nn_k70KQRiGsnI-FwnjPg#/registration -- Wendy Zierler is Sigmund Falk Professor of Modern Jewish Literature and Feminist Studies at HUC-JIR in New York. Prior to joining HUC-JIR she was a Research Fellow in the English Department of the University of Hong …

Uri L’Tzedek’s College Social Justice Fellowship is now accepting applications for Fall 2025! This virtual fellowship brings together observant Jewish college students for four Sunday sessions focused on social justice through a Jewish lens, featuring dynamic speakers, peer learning, and community building. 🕒 Priority Application Deadline: Oct 5 Ap…

Nomi Kaltmann is a lawyer, journalist, educator and political strategist. She has held senior roles working across law, media, and politics. Nomi is a monthly columnist for The Jewish Independent and previously served as the Australian correspondent for Tablet Magazine (New York). Her commentary and reporting have appeared in The Griffith Review, T…

Uri L’Tzedek’s College Social Justice Fellowship is now accepting applications for Fall 2025! This virtual fellowship brings together observant Jewish college students for four Sunday sessions focused on social justice through a Jewish lens, featuring dynamic speakers, peer learning, and community building. 🕒 Priority Application Deadline: Oct 5 Ap…

Rabbanit Sharona Margolin Halickman was the first Congregational intern and Madricha Ruchanit at the Hebrew Institute of Riverdale (1997-2004) where she provided religious education and spiritual direction for the community. She is a graduate of Yeshiva University (BA and MS) as well as Matan’s Eshkolot (Tanach) and Hilkheta programs. Sharona is th…

Rabbi David Polsky is an Orthodox rabbi, educator, and Kashrut professional living in Southfield, Michigan with his wife and two children. His main research interest is the interaction between Halakhah and social justice. He published two articles in The Lehrhaus making a Halachic case for police accountability, and his article on water access and …

Join Mark MacCarthy, adjunct faculty in the Communication, Culture & Technology Program at Georgetown University, for an engaging conversation on the future of artificial intelligence. While concerns about the existential risks of advanced AI—ranging from loss of control to human extinction—have been circulating for years, recent developments sugge…

While tikkun olam and tzedek tzedek tirdof have become the rallying cries of the Jewish social justice movement, there are many rich texts that provide nuance and depth to the Jewish imperative for social justice. Come explore these texts and, perhaps, even be inspired to find your own personal rallying cry for the work. -- Rabba Melissa Scholten-G…

In this class we will explore two opposing answers to the most fundamental question raised by the Jewish return to political power,the surprising shift by the Religious Zionist movement, and the practical implications for the burning questions of our day - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Avidan Freedman is a rabbi and activist worki…

Join Randy Parraz, Co-Founder and President of the Organizing Institute for Democracy. He will share how he was the main organizer behind the takedown of an extremist politician in 2011 and provide a behind the scenes perspective of how ordinary citizens can organize and win when others thought it impossible. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -…

Check out this cross-Atlantic conversation with leaders from Kehillat Harlem (NYC) and Ayeka (Paris) on the vision, challenges, and impact of creating meaningful Jewish communities. This video is helpful to all- whether you're part of one, building one, or just curious. Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s YouTube channel: http…

Check out this dynamic Zoom panel with Rabbi Hart Levine and Rabbanit Tanya Farber where they discuss how radical hospitality at the Seder transforms lives and builds community. Discover how opening our homes and hearts can create spaces of belonging, deepen Jewish meaning, and ensure everyone has a seat at the table. Watch the video recording of t…

Listen to this book talk on Fear No Pharaoh: American Jews, the Civil War, and the Fight to End Slavery, as author Richard Kreitner explores how six American Jews navigated the moral crisis of slavery during the Civil War—and what their stories teach us about conscience, courage, and identity. Purchase the book on Amazon! Watch the video recording …

Carletta Tilousi, a lifelong advocate and former Havasupai Tribal Council member, will share her story of protecting the Grand Canyon and advancing environmental justice for Indigenous communities. Drawing from over 25 years of leadership, Carletta will explore the sacred significance of Red Butte, the threats to the region’s aquifer, and the power…

In this session, participants learned how to be effective allies to immigrant communities facing crisis. We covered what to do if you witness an immigration raid, how to respond safely and legally, and how to distribute "Know Your Rights" Red Cards to vulnerable communities. --------------------------------------------------------------------------…

In this episode, Keshet’s Southwest Community Mobilization Manager, Rachel Gollay, explores the urgent challenges facing LGBTQ+ individuals in the current social climate and how they intersect with Jewish values. Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s YouTube channel: youtube.com/channel/UC_htFNr9duz-KJiXdtW8pIw - - - - - - - - -…

In this podcast, Dr. Marc Shapiro discusses his new book on Rav Kook. It focuses on new and surprising insights that have come to light from Rav Kook's recently published (and long suppressed) writings. Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s YouTube channel: youtube.com/channel/UC_htFNr9duz-KJiXdtW8pIw - - - - - - - - - - - - - -…

A dynamic panel discussion between Daphne Lazar Price and Rabbi Nati Helfgot exploring Rabbi Soloveitchik’s teachings as a framework for balancing personal spirituality with communal justice. This conversation dives into the challenges of integrating faith, activism, and ethical commitments in today’s complex world. Watch the video recording of thi…

Explore the critical intersection of Jewish values and end-of-life planning in this past fellowship session. Participants examined the importance of designating a healthcare proxy, ensuring medical decisions align with their values. The discussion also delves into how Jewish law informs end-of-life care and the role of a rabbinic consultant in guid…

Experience Jewish history through a fresh lens as Marko delves into the rich and complex story of Jewish communities in Croatia and the Balkans. From ancient traders to cultural luminaries, from the devastation of the Holocaust to modern revival efforts, this recorded podcast offers a fascinating exploration of resilience, heritage, and renewal. Wa…

According to halakha, if a woman and a man were married in a traditional Jewish ceremony that included kiddushin, and then the woman was abandoned (e.g., the man went on a business trip, or was drafted into the army, and never returned), the woman is considered still married until he divorces her or his death is proven. A woman in such a situation …

In light of the rising antisemitism and growing divisions in our society, this panel reflects on the enduring values of Hanukkah—resilience, courage, and the triumph of light over darkness—and their relevance in addressing contemporary challenges. This conversation explores themes of combating antisemitism, promoting justice, and fostering unity ac…

In our interconnected world, it is time to reexamine theological perspectives on the relationship between Jews and the rest of humanity with fresh insight. In wake of his recent book, Rabbi Dr. Yakov Nagen presents the foundations for a renewed understanding of a vital aspect of Jewish-gentile relations: Judaism’s view on the beliefs and religious …

Learn from Rosetta Walker and Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz about the state of democracy post-election and explore how Native American and Jewish communities can continue to support the vulnerable and advocate for marginalized groups. Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s YouTube channel: youtube.com/channel/UC_htFNr9duz-KJiXdtW8pIw -…

In this shiur, Rabbi Truboff looks at the writings of Rav Moshe Amiel, a leading Religious Zionist in the early 20th century, who embraced Zionism but also critiqued it. Rav Moshe Amiel was particularly concerned that under the right conditions, nationalism's emphasis on power and violence could become a form of idolatry, and the consequences could…

Experience a rich dialogue in our interfaith panel with Dr. Mehnaz Afridi and Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz as they delve into the essential roles of democracy and pluralism in their faith traditions. Addressing the complexities of the situation post-October 7th and the implications of the elections, they highlight opportunities for rebuilding bridge…

Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz interviews Rabbi Jonah Pesner, Director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism. Rabbi Jonah Dov Pesner serves as the Director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism and the Senior Vice President of the Union for Reform Judaism. Named one of the most influential rabbis in America by Newsweek magazine, …

In this interview, Rabbi Erica and Mark Gerson explore the motivation behind getting involved in global health philanthropy and the decision to support African Mission Healthcare as a platform for this impactful work. They also discuss the future vision for African Mission Healthcare in reducing global health disparities and how Jewish values and p…

In this short podcast interview, Rabbi Shmuly sits down with Rabbi Aryeh Ronay to explore his journey and expertise in meditation, his background in Jewish spirituality, and his passion for integrating mindfulness with Torah teachings. We also discuss his organization, MindBodyTorah, which focuses on the intersection of Jewish wisdom, meditation, a…

Listen to hear expert, Adam Obernauer, answer questions like: * How can workers defend themselves today in their workplace? * What protections does joining a union provide? * How do workers gain the opportunity to join unions? Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s YouTube channel: youtube.com/channel/UC_htFNr9duz-KJiXdtW8pIw - -…

Rabbi Greenberg discusses his latest book, "The Triumph of Life: A Narrative Theology of Judaism." "The Triumph of Life: A Narrative Theology of Judaism" is Rabbi Greenberg’s magnum opus—a narrative of the relationship between God and humanity as expressed in the Jewish journey through modernity, the Holocaust, the creation of Israel, and the birth…

In this dynamic discussion-style session Dr. Barbara Williams-Skinner and Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz explore the critical importance of civic engagement and the power of using our voices in the democratic process. They delve into how each of us can actively contribute to safeguarding democracy, ensuring that our actions reflect our commitment to a…

The book of Deuteronomy lays out Moses' vision of the ideal society that should animate the Israelites as they take up residence in their homeland. One of the central parts of that vision is a society driven by concern for social justice. We will examine key elements of the mitzvot that try to achieve those goals on a personal, communal and nationa…

How and why do we maintain the status quo which makes it difficult for those struggling with addiction to come forward? In this podcast, we look at the Torah as a guide to remind us of how to help those struggling with addiction and to open the door for those that are struggling in private. Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s …

Beatrice Weber joins Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz for an interview to discuss how the value of כל ישראל ערבים זה בזה (every Jew is responsible for one another), is crucial in advocating for Hasidic children to receive a basic education. Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s YouTube channel: youtube.com/channel/UC_htFNr9duz-KJiXdtW8pI…

Rabbi Jonah Pesner on Pursuing Justice Even When it's Hard: Overcoming Racism and Antisemitism Rabbi Pesner reflects on the Reform Movement's long-time racial justice commitments and the more recent challenges from rising bigotry and authoritarianism. He also addresses the dynamics that have emerged in the US since the Hamas attacks. Lastly, he dis…

Dr. Tanya White at Uri L’Tzedek on “‘Yirat Elokim’ – Fearing God as the Development of a Moral Conscience” This shiur explored the idea of ‘yirat elokim’ as the development of moral conscience. Using the Akeida narrative as a framing paradigm it journeys through an exploration of the concept of yirat elokim in Torah including Yosef, the Hebrew midw…

From addiction to depression, mental health issues are present at all levels of our community just like every other. Come hear from experts in the field as they discuss mental health care in the Jewish community. Find out what you can do to support loved ones and receive insight into their experiences. Watch the video recording of this class on Uri…

Learn Torah with Rabbi Avi Narrow-Tilonski. Originally from Cherry Hill, NJ Avi Tilonsky, enjoys experiencing the exciting and ever-changing Jewish life in Jerusalem. Prior to moving to Israel, Avi worked as a communal rabbi and in adult Jewish education. Today, he is privileged to work for a Jewish organization helping Jewish communities around th…

Join a Zoom panel with Uri L’Tzedek’s Founder and president Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz, Uri L’Tzedek Board member Rosh Kehilah Dina Najman, and Campaign Director Eddie Chavez Calderon. We will be discussing our work in supporting workers for over 15 years with a rich grounding in the Torah. STAY CONNECTED: Website: utzedek.org Newsletter: utzedek.org/…

Join a thought-provoking panel discussion on Ethical Consumption featuring esteemed speakers Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz, Founder of Uri L’Tzedek, Rabbi Dina Brawer, Executive Director of World Jewish Relief USA, and Dr. Steven Laufer, an economist from the Myers-JDC-Brookdale Institute. Delve into the intersection of ethics and consumerism as our expe…

Join an insightful discussion featuring Uri L'Tzedek's Campaign Director, Eddie Chavez Calderon, and Randy Fried, Director of Philanthropic Engagement & Communication at Tzedek America. Together, they will explore strategies to address Jewish hatred within progressive spaces, particularly from the perspective of Jews of color. With over two decades…

Join Rabbi Dr. Yitz Greenberg as he shares some Torah on liberation and social justice. On this night Rav Yitz & Mrs. Blu will also be awarding our J.J Greenberg Young Leadership awards to a select group of leaders. STAY CONNECTED: Website: utzedek.org Newsletter: utzedek.org/subscribe Facebook: facebook.com/uriltzedek YouTube: / @uriltzedek1140 Ap…

Even though slavery has long since been outlawed, according to the International Labor Organization tens of millions of people are still slaves. How can this be? In this session, we’ll use Jewish and secular sources to discuss what modern slavery is, what it looks like, and what we can do to stop it. STAY CONNECTED: Website: utzedek.org Newsletter:…