I write this in the shadow of two mass shootings in our country. I feel, like others, hopeless and helpless but I know there is work to do and we must move forward with ardor and energy to make change.
Arlene Pressman is one of those inspirational women who has motivated us to move forward and make change especially in the areas of reproductive rights and voting rights. Arlene has led us in postcard campaigns, protest demonstrations, informative gatherings and educational opportunities. She is the epitome of a change maker and now embarks on a significant change in her life as she and her husband Kurt, move to New York, and closer to family. Arlene’s commitment to Social Justice is uplifting. On behalf of our entire Tzedek Committee and Temple Shalom Congregation we extend thanks to her and best wishes. We are confident that she will become a leader in her new Congregation, and they don’t know how lucky and blessed they are.
Best wishes for good health and the beginning of a lovely summer,
Marion Pollock Newsletter Editor
GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION
Laura Towvim is a cherished member of our congregation and is an active volunteer with Moms Demand Action and Co-founder of the Newton Gun Violence Prevention Collaborative The following information and thoughts come from Laura.
In the wake of two additional high profile mass shootings in Buffalo and Uvalde, many people are asking what we can do, how we can channel our heartbreak and outrage into something productive.This article expresses my thoughts, especially on the importance of finding what resonates with you and doing that work.
Even here in Massachusetts, gun laws can be strengthened, and those lawmakers who you agree with still need to hear from you in support of their actions. Believe me, they are hearing from the other side. In addition, many national groups organize phone banks and text campaigns to get out the vote in other states.
Below are some ideas to get you started. Choose what works best for you.
VOTE! Make sure your voter registration is up to date. Remind your friends and family to vote. Commit to phone banking or canvassing. Work on election day.
IMMIGRATION NEWS
Massachusetts Immigration News The Massachusetts legislature has just passed the Work and Family Mobility Act, which allows residents of the Commonwealth to apply for driver's licenses regardless of immigration status. However, Governor Baker has vetoed the bill. Use this link to ask your state legislators to overturn the governor's veto.
Ways to Help our Afghan Friends (Cars and Babies!) TAX DEDUCTION OPPORTUNITY: We are seeking a car donation for our Afghan friends who continue to settle into their lives here. Several have begun to get their driver’s licenses and having a car to share will help them with commuting and other daily needs. If you have an older car that is in good mechanical condition, and you would be willing to donate it, please contact Dan Kaplan at dkaplan01@icloud.com or 617-999-0580. BY DONATING THE CAR TO TEMPLE SHALOM, YOU MOST LIKELY CAN TAKE A TAX DONATION FOR THE VALUE OF THE CAR. TEMPLE SHALOM WILL THEN GIFT THE CAR TO OUR FRIENDS.
We are still looking for children's items for a local Afghan family expecting a new baby in the next few weeks. Items needed include: Infant/Toddler/Preschooler books and toys Girls/gender neutral clothes sizes 4-5 Boys/gender neutral clothes sizes 0-6 months Newborn/size 1 diapers Women's clothes size 2-4 Please contact Sara at spollock4@gmail.com to arrange drop-off.
LAUNCH OF RAC-MA
We are honored that Temple Shalom has been selected as the site to host the statewide launch of RAC-MA on June 12. We expect to have a good turnout from all over the state, and naturally we would love for our congregation to have a VERY strong showing of support.
FOOD INSECURITY
Community Peah Garden: Do you love gardening? Are you passionate about food justice, especially feeding people who need a little extra? We are looking for volunteers who want to help with the weekly maintenance and harvest of the Temple Shalom Peah Garden (located in the Myrtle Street yard). Issac, our farmer from Green City Growers, joins us every Wednesday from 2:15 to 3:15. All produce is donated to the Newton Community Freedge. Please contact Rabbi Abrasley if you are interested labrasley@templeshalom.org
