Jews for a Secular Democracy Blog - Jews for a Secular Democracy

Our “Fighting 4 Religious Freedom: Florida’s Fight 4 Repro Rights!” webinar focused on the intersection of religious freedom, reproductive rights and Amendment 4 in Florida. Moderated by Denise Lettau JD, of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Broward County, this important event features panelists Florida State Representative Anna Eskamani, Laura Rodriguez from NCJW/Greater Miami, and Lauren Brenzel, Campaign Director of Floridians Protecting Freedom. As part of our “Jewish Women and Religious Freedom In Florida” project, this webinar aims to inspire...

Religious Freedom, Repro Rights, and Public Policy: Connecting the Dots in Pittsburgh

10 Jun 2024

JFASD

Events, Pennsylvania, Reproductive Rights, Webinars and Podcasts

In this inaugural webinar of our “Jewish Women and Religious Freedom in Pittsburgh” project, our esteemed panelists illuminate the intricate relationship between religious freedom and reproductive freedom, with a particular focus on how this impacts Jewish women and those of other marginalized genders. Now, more than ever, it is crucial to understand the complexities and interconnectivity of these issues. Through the gripping personal story of Alliyson Feldmann and in-depth knowledge of our Professor Greer Donley, Professor Rachel Kranson, and Rabbi...

Jewish News AZ: “‘Nerding out’ on elections with Jews for a Secular Democracy”

07 Jun 2024

JFASD

Arizona, Media, News and Press

“Wrapping up an online discussion focused on informing the public about election processes and how to overcome election skepticism, Pima County Recorder Gabriella Cázares-Kelly reminded viewers that “elections are administered by your friends and family and neighbors, real people following protocols and law, doing our very best to make voting as easy and accessible as possible so people can participate in one of our most fundamental rights as Americans.” It was a salient point to make after the hourlong, detailed...

Election Integrity: Ensuring Trust at the Local Level

04 Jun 2024

JFASD

Events, Florida, Voter Suppression, Webinars and Podcasts

This informative webinar helped us better understand how election officials in key battleground states are working tirelessly to uphold the integrity of our democracy. We heard from three local election officials: Oakland County (MI) Clerk/Register of Deeds Lisa Brown, Pima County (AZ) Recorder Gabriella Cázares-Kelly, and Broward County (FL) Supervisor of Elections Joe Scott. They provided an in-depth exploration of the measures in place to ensure that elections are safe, secure, and well-managed. From debunking rumors of election interference to...

Religious Freedom Isn’t Free – Michigan Event Recap

15 May 2024

Nomi Joyrich

Events, Media, Michigan, News and Press, Webinars and Podcasts

Our first annual Michigan Jews for a Secular Democracy fundraiser on Sunday, May 9, was amazing—see photos below! We had a full house at Krishna, a vegetarian Indian restaurant. The food was delicious and the conversations even better. Our sponsors and attendees included volunteer leaders and elected officials at nearly every level of government: School Board members, city clerks and treasurers, mayors, county commissioners, a county clerk, a county treasurer, several state Representatives and state Senators, and a congresswoman. The...

“But You Don’t Look Jewish”: Unpacking and Addressing Unconscious Bias

09 Apr 2024

JFASD

Events, Florida, Judaism, Webinars and Podcasts

How can we become better advocates and allies for Jewish diversity and LGBTQ+ equality? As we fight against religious fundamentalists trying to weaponize our government to remove rights from those we love, we must first explore and address our own unconscious biases. Please join us on April 10th to learn more. As part of JFASD’s “Religious Freedom and Jewish Women in Florida” project, this enlightening workshop will delve into the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ Jews of Color, illuminating their unique narratives within...

The Alpha, God, and Authoritarianism

04 Apr 2024

JFASD

Uncategorized

By Bill Schweisheimer Many species of animals which engage in collaborative behavior in order to survive have what appears to be a pecking order of dominancy. With some lower species with more primitive social organization that pecking order may fluctuate seemingly from moment to moment or from one occasion to the next. With higher level species with more complex social behavior for the sake of a group’s survival that pecking order may be more enduring. Take wolves, for example, who...

Fighting for Religious Freedom: How to Speak to and Actually be HEARD by Your Legislators

28 Feb 2024

JFASD

Events, Florida, Webinars and Podcasts

Want to talk to your state legislators and make an impact, but don’t know where to start? Brace yourself for a whirlwind of empowerment! In this condensed and dynamic webinar, founder of Secular Strategies and Director of Strategy for JFASD, Sarah Levin, will unleash a burst of expertise on effective communication and engagement with elected state legislators. Register here to join us on March 14 at 7 pm ET. Get ready to absorb game-changing insights on navigating conversations about the...

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