George Floyd’s life mattered. Tony McDade’s life mattered. Breonna Taylor’s Life mattered. Ahmaud Arbery’s life mattered.
At Gilboa the concepts of tzedek (justice) and shivyon erech ha’adam (equality of human value) are at the core of what we do each and every day, and define how we educate. To live these values means to reaffirm the basic truth that Black Lives Matter and to recognize that Black Americans are made to live in fear. We also know that simply recognizing injustice is not enough; we all have a responsibility to take ownership over ourselves and our communities, to have hard conversations, and to combat racist structures of power in whatever ways we can. We encourage every member of our community to stand in solidarity with Black Americans, not only in this moment but until justice is served.
Finally, we want to recognize that we are a diverse community and are each experiencing this moment differently. To those in our community directly affected by the racism we are fighting to end, know you are loved and valued in this community and we are all in this with you. To those who are working to be better allies, we encourage you to be in it for the long haul, commit to learning & listening, and hold each other accountable.
We encourage you to check out the following to take action or donate:
Provides tons of information on how to donate, help, and get educated around the causes of racial justice.
Provides legal representation to people who have been illegally convicted, unfairly sentenced, or abused in state jails and prisons. They challenge the death penalty and excessive punishment and provide re-entry assistance to formerly incarcerated people.
Donate to Bail Funds
Oakland People's Breakfast Fund (our very own Natasha is selling earrings, with proceeds being donated here!)
As the mayor and city council have sought to increase the LAPD's budget during a pandemic, and as police around the country continue to kill innocent people of color, we have taken to the street to protest. This fund will go towards: Legal support, bail, fines, and court fees for arrested protesters, Medical bills and transportation for injured protesters, Medical supplies and PPE for Community Medics
Resources for parents to talk with kids
Vera (The Tutu Teacher or on Instagram @diversereads) - great book recommendations & educational crafts for kids
Jewish Education Project has compiled many resources in this article "Racial Justice: Responding to the Moment and Beyond" - the list includes teachings from Black Jewish leaders, videos, resources for teens, and resources for families with young kids.
The Jews of Color Field Building Initiative is a national effort focused on building and advancing the professional, organizational and communal field for Jews of Color.
If anyone has any questions, concerns, or needs support, please feel free to reach out to us at info@campgilboa.org.
Shabbat shalom!
