Social Cause Resources Volume I
In our always changing world, we are fortunate to have access to unlimited information and resources on the many issues affecting us all. There are so many causes out there that are worthy of further exploration, and especially with the current social climate, there has never been a better time to get involved and continue educating ourselves and those around us. We have complied a few resources to help our community stay informed and get involved in events or groups that hold true to our core values of kavod (respect), chesed (kindness) and kehillah (community).
By sharing the resources we’ve compiled and the events happening in our community, we, at JCC Chicago and Camp Chi hope you will discover your own way to become involved and deepen your connections to communities invested in similar social causes. There is something for everyone from film festivals to small group conversations and beyond. We hope you, your family, and friends will check out the offerings and participate!
Social Justice Film Series through JCC Chicago
The JCC Chicago Jewish Film Festival is back with a brand-new selection of culturally diverse, Jewish-inspired films that will entertain, educate and inspire audiences of all ages. The festival will take place virtually and moviegoers will enjoy wide ranging cinematic works including documentaries, short and feature length films, that will include stories of love, loss, learning and survival.
Click here for information and registration.
Amplifying Voices
In partnering with the Tuscon JCC, Amplifying Voices is a six-part virtual series designed to help us explore the intersectional relationship between Black and Jewish identity and community. The program is designed to create space for Jews of Color to share their experiences as both Jews and Black people, and is available to anyone who would like to learn from an incredible panel of Black Jewish leaders and allies.
We are offering these sessions for free! More information on how to register and view these sessions will be coming out soon. In the time being Click here for more information on the Amplifying Voices series.
The Jewish Youth Climate Movement (JYCM)
The Jewish Youth Climate Movement was founded by Hazon in 2020. They are dedicated to mitigating climate change by empowering teens, mobilizing our communities, and taking action. JYCM believes in using Jewish values as a motivation to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.
To learn more, visit the JYCM website.
Tzelem by Moving Traditions
Moving Traditions is a national organization that emboldens teens to flourish by fostering self-discovery, challenging sexism, and inspiring a commitment to Jewish life and learning. Tzelem is for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, nonbinary, queer and questioning teens in grade 8-12. Tzelem is open to teens of all genders.
Each month the group talks about key issues like life transitions, healthy relationships, body positivity, self-compassion, mental health, intimacy and Jewish identity. The group will meet in-person once a month as health safety permits and will meet online if necessary.
We hope you find these resources as interesting and engaging as we do. We will continue to share updates and information on programs and events that we, and other organizations are offering to educate and further our connection to current social issues through a shared Jewish lens. As always, if there are any questions please feel free to reach out, our team is always happy to converse, share resources, and help in any way that we can!