Beth David Statement in Support of No Silence on Race
No Silence on Race is born out of the necessity for inclusivity and racial equity in Jewish spaces. It calls upon the Jewish Community to uphold the tenet of justice and commit to the creation of a truly anti-racist, inclusive and equitable Jewish community.
On November 28, 2022, Beth David B’nai Israel Beth Am’s Board of Directors acknowledged that the work that needs to be done to achieve this vision must happen collectively and systemically and committed to the 9 pillars outlined in No Silence on Race’s Open Letter.
Anti-Racism Statement
On February 27, 2022, the Beth David Board adopted an official anti-racism statement for the synagogue.
Beth David B’nai Israel Beth Am is an egalitarian Conservative synagogue that strives to be inclusive and create a safe, comfortable and welcoming space for all. We are a congregation that advocates for tolerance, kindness, inclusivity and peace. We encourage everyone to participate, learn, and grow.
We believe this work grows out of Jewish values, and is firmly grounded in our tradition that teaches that all people are created B’tselem Elokim, in the image of God. We must work to ensure a community and a society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. As Jews we are commanded to seek justice, (“Justice, justice you shall pursue” (Deut 16:20)) and fighting against racism and discrimination is one important way to pursue a more just world. Anti-racism work and Jewish values go hand-in-hand and are based on our love and commitment to Judaism.
We acknowledge that racism is a societal problem and that we need to listen to those most affected by racism. We will dispel misconceptions, increase sensitivity and confront systemic racism. We will implement policies to ensure equity within our own community, and actively work toward eliminating racism and discrimination in the broader Jewish community. We will identify and challenge the values, structures and behaviours that perpetuate systemic racism and advocate for change that will ensure racial justice and equity in society in general.
We recognize that change begins with leadership. The leadership of Beth David (Board members, Clergy, committee chairs, staff) is committed to participating in anti-racism training and conducting training for the broader Beth David community. We will include anti-racism as a cornerstone of our education, programming and partnerships.
We also recognize that change requires outreach to the greater community to support anti-racism efforts and to respond to antisemitism. We will make connections and create meaningful bridges with Jewish and non-Jewish racialized communities and organizations to provide allyship and form strong relationships.