Temple Hillel B'nai Torah

TIKKUN OLAM – SOCIAL ACTION

Justice, Justice Shall you pursue (Deuteronomy)

At HBT, we bring our energy and commitment to stand up for social, racial and economic justice to make a better world for our families, our communities and our world. The Tikkun Olam Committee identifies concerns raised by members and responds to calls to action from other Jewish and Greater Boston organizations. We address critical issues such as, immigration advocacy, criminal justice reform, police accountability, racial justice, environmental sustainability, voting rights, support for LGBTQ rights and issues, and a just peace in Israel and Palestine. The Tikkun Olam Committee undertakes:  

• Educational events to deepen understanding of pressing issues

• Legislative advocacy at the state and federal level 

• Attendance at rallies, vigils and public forums to seek action from public officials

 ONGOING

Fight for Justice Video Series

Features HBT members and the work they do for social justice. Learn about the issues various members are committed to and why they’re part of HBT. First up: Lisa Berelson talks about protecting our democracy and voting.

Protect our Democracy/ Protect the Vote

There is an  urgent need to protect our democracy, and we partner with the Jewish Alliance for Law and Social Action (JALSA) and other voting rights groups to counter voter suppression, protect voting rights for all, and insure fair elections including  GOTV (Get Out The Vote) activities e.g. phone-banking, postcard/letter writing & text banking.  As the 2024 elections approach, HBT members will step up again to protect voting rights.

Greater Boston Interfaith Organization

HBT is a member with 30+ congregations and community groups that build relationships and organize legislative campaigns to build our power in MA. Current campaigns focus on: Access to Mental Health Services, Housing (in all of its aspects), and Support for Returning Citizens.

JALSA

We have partnered closely with the Jewish Alliance for Law and Social Action on multiple campaigns, including Reproductive Rights, Voting Rights and Meals for School Children. And current legislative priorities at  the MA State House.

Black Lives Matter (BLM) and Anti-racist work

We encourage all our members to  fight for racial justice and for HBT to become an anti-racist congregation. The BLM banner states our commitment publicly. We  hold discussion groups and forums, have sponsored workshops on Anti-racism and Anti-Semitism, and joined at weekly vigils in West Roxbury to raise our voices.

Criminal Justice/Second Chance Justice Campaign

The SCJ campaign that won parole for William Allen who had been serving a life sentence without parole for 27 years, continues its effort to address system problems in the criminal justice system. This year a second Liberation Seder was organized to focus attention on the need for greater criminal justice refor. The current campaign is focused on expanding the use of Clemency powers in MA. With the BIC and Boston area Jewish congregations, HBT members rallied, wrote letters and made donations to compel the former Gov. Baker to grant clemency to this inspiring individual.

Mothers Day Walk for Peace

We march annually as a contingent and raise funds for the Louis D. Brown Peace Institute services, advocacy and training to create more peaceful communities.