In Support of the Protestors

In the past few weeks, we have seen an explosion across America. In cities spanning from coast to coast, people have stepped up to protest the unjust treatment and murders of African Americans at the hands of the police. We at the Jewish Youth Climate Movement would like to voice our unequivocal support for those who have fought and are currently fighting to make America an equitable place, a place where these killings can never happen again. As Jewish people, we have a responsibility to aid those in need however we can. As the Torah states, “Justice, justice shall you pursue,” (Deuteronomy 16: 20). To our African American and other community members of color: we see you. We hear you. We stand with you. To our white community members: we must support our siblings of color not just at this time, but at all times. Below are some steps we can all take to pursue justice.

• Participate in Movement For Black Lives’ Week of Action (May 31st-June 5th).

• Donate to Reclaim the Block, North Star Health Collective, Black Visions Collective, I Run With Maud-Justice for Amaud Arbery Fundraiser, and/or Official George Floyd Memorial Fund. We realize that monetary donations are not possible for everyone, but even a little bit helps.

• Sign the Justice for Breonna Taylor Petition

• Call or email your House representative to demand they co-sponsor and vote for Ayanna Pressley, Ilhan Omar, Barbara Lee, and Karen Bass’ resolution condemning police brutality.

• Read Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You, The Hate U Give, and other books to better understand privileges you might have.

• Post on social media about this issue.

• Remember the women and queer folks suffering from police violence, including Breonna Taylor and Tony McDade, as they are so often forgotten.

• If possible and comfortable for you, attend protests in your area. Remember to wear a mask and socially distance as much as possible (for example, search for car caravan protests), and check out Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's instagram for what to bring as well as what not to bring. If you do choose this route, be aware that being among large crowds does significantly increase risk of Covid-19 exposure and that police are reacting violently to many protestors.

-Alex Tananbaum

JYCM Board Member