Statements from the Boulder JCC
Sent: Friday, June 5
Dear Friends of the Boulder JCC,
We, like many in our communities, share in the heartbreak and anger over the murder of George Floyd, the spate of racist events and treatment of protesters across the country, and the systemic racism that continues to exist in the United States.
Jewish tradition compels us to seek ways to heal the world, call out injustices, and pursue justice. It is up to each of us to make our voices heard, but more importantly, to listen, to learn, and to use our voices to amplify the voices of others.
We stand in solidarity with the Black community, with Jews of Color, with protesters, and with those taking a stand for change. The power of peaceful demonstration has been evident in the last week and throughout history.
At a time when many of us are focused on the challenges of Coronavirus, we cannot be deterred in ensuring people are valued and treated with respect and dignity.
The Boulder JCC remains committed to discussing issues affecting our community and providing space for dialogue, understanding, and learning. We are exploring opportunities for sustained, meaningful, and continued learning about racism, allyship, and how to become better people. This work cannot be done overnight. Our commitment must be long-term to work towards the world we envision.
In strength,
Jonathan Lev
Executive Director
Boulder JCC
Lee Strongwater
Board President
Boulder JCC
“If, going forward, we can channel our justifiable anger into peaceful, sustained, and effective action, then this moment can be a real turning point in our nation’s long journey to live up to our highest ideals.” - Barack Obama, How to Make this Moment the Turning Point for Real Change
Resources for Children, Teens, and Families
- Her Flowers: An Anti-Racist Workshop Series for Teenage Girls (June 26 & July 1)
- PJ Library: Resources for Talking with Kids About Racism
- A Kids Book About Racism
- Where to Find Diverse Children's Books
- Anti-Racist Children's Books
- Talking About Race from the National Museum of African American History and Culture
- Talking to Students about George Floyd and Racism
- Second Step Social-Emotional Learning
- Through December 31, 2020, families can access all the streaming media and downloadable content
- Create an account and add the program activation key for the grade level of your student
- Early Learning: SSPE FAMI LY68
Kindergarten: SSPK FAMI LY70
Grade 1: SSP1 FAMI LY71
Grade 2: SSP2 FAMI LY72
Grade 3: SSP3 FAMI LY73
Grade 4: SSP4 FAMI LY74
Grade 5: SSP5 FAMI LY75
- Early Learning: SSPE FAMI LY68
- 5 Children's Books about Juneteenth
Resources for Adults
- How to Make this Moment the Turning Point for Real Change
- Books to Read about Anti-Racism
- Diversity Coaching and Consulting with April N. Baskin
- Solidarity Guide from GatherDC
- Racial Equity Tools
- Black Jewish Voices on their experiences and identities
- Learn about the Historical Legacy of Juneteenth
- Juneteenth: A Celebration of Resilience (June 19-20)
- Juneteenth Kabbalat Shabbat (June 19)
- Black-Owned Businesses in Boulder County