Camp Ramah and Racial Justice
National Ramah’s Statement on Racial Injustice:
Excerpt:
As our nation continues to grapple with the aftermath of the murder of George Floyd and the painful reality of systemic racism, Ramah leaders are raising their voices in solidarity with protesters throughout the United States, and increasingly, around the world.
Please click here to read the complete statement.
Rabbi Gelb’s D’Var Torah: Parshat Naso — Why We Need Blessings Today More Than Ever:
Excerpt:
God said to Cain, “Where is your brother Abel?” And Cain said, “I do not know. Am I my brother’s keeper?” Then God said, “What have you done? Your brother’s blood cries out to Me from the ground.” (Genesis 4:9-10)
This is one of the most important pieces of Torah to me. This event happens immediately after creation when you would think people are naturally innocent and good. There are no religions. Just two brothers – the first brothers. And one of them murders the other. There are so many interpretations and lessons to learn. Today, I feel that Cain had not been taught that he was his brother’s keeper. He didn’t know we have a responsibility for one another. This is one of Judaism’s fundamental teachings for the world.
George Floyd’s blood is calling out to God and humanity from the grave. Will we learn the lesson that we humanity has had to learn and relearn from the time of Cain?
Please click here to read the complete D’var Torah.
Rabbi Gelb and Rabbi Levy’s Thoughts on George Floyd and the Jewish Response to Racism:
Excerpt:
Ramah New England contains Jewish educational overnight and day camps committed to help raise the next generation of engaged and educated Jews. We are about caring for children and helping them become the best versions of themselves they can be. We strive to make the values and mitzvot of Judaism relevant to their everyday lives.
We are proud that at Ramah we have Jews of color and Black Jews in our community. We want to say in one voice that we love you, we see you and we are always available to hear what you have to say. You are part of our Ramah family.
Many of us are asking how can we talk to our children about what is happening today? How do we explain the murders of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and others? What does Judaism say about all of this? We want to share our thoughts with you, which we hope will help spark further conversation in your homes.