Hey there! As a Jewish Mom, I’ve been reflecting on some recent events that have stirred our Jewish community. Here’s a quick overview of what I’ve learned:
- Stay Politically Aware: We need to understand the landscape.
- Invest in Professional Leadership: Expertise matters.
- Be Assertive: It’s time to speak up.
1. Stay Politically Aware: Understanding Our Environment
A few weeks ago, I was shocked to see the University and College Union vote for an academic boycott of Israel. It really opened my eyes to how crucial it is for us to be aware of what’s happening around us.
I often talk to my kids, Elliott and Hannah, about the importance of being informed citizens. I want them to understand that political decisions can impact our community and values. Just like I encourage them to engage in discussions at school, we, too, need to be active participants in our community’s conversations.
2. Invest in Professional Leadership: The Importance of Expertise
I’ve noticed that many successful community organizations rely on trained professionals to lead. When I attended a recent meeting about local Jewish initiatives, it became clear that having experts can really make a difference in how effectively we respond to challenges.
I think about how I organize my household—having a plan and knowing what to do makes everything run smoother. Our community deserves the same level of professionalism. Organizations like the ADL in the U.S. show us how impactful well-trained leaders can be in addressing issues quickly and decisively.
3. Be Assertive: Speaking Up for Our Values
Growing up, I learned to take a “softly softly” approach, but the recent boycott situation reminded me that this doesn’t always work. Watching our community’s slow response was frustrating. It felt like when I ask Elliott and Hannah to clean their rooms; if I’m too easygoing, nothing gets done!
We need to adopt a more assertive stance. It’s time for us to clearly communicate our values and advocate for our community without hesitation. If we want to make our voices heard, we have to be proactive and confident in our approach.
Let’s Keep the Dialogue Open
These lessons have inspired me to think about how we can strengthen our community together. By staying informed, supporting professional leadership, and being assertive, we can make a real impact.
I’d love to hear your thoughts! How do you think we can better engage and support one another as a community? Let’s chat!