There is a major misconception in the community about creating an inclusive environment–it’s expensive. Anyone that’s worked with the Ruderman Synagogue Inclusion Project (RSIP), a collaboration between Combined Jewish Philanthropies (CJP) and the Ruderman Family Foundation, can assure you that that is rarely true! Transformative change in inclusion begins with a few small and inexpensive steps. There will definitely be a handful of costly changes along the way, but it should never be a deterring factor. We strongly believe (and support) that where there is a will, there is a way! Talk to us in the comments below or email mollys@cjp.org if you’re interested in learning more about synagogue inclusion funding.
In December, we hosted a “Moving Your Inclusion Agenda Forward” workshop at Congregation Shaarei Tefillah. There were over 12 congregations, nearly 100 attendees and an abundance of interest in our work. During the event, members at Temple Emunah in Lexington (one of our original cohorts) shared its accessibility flyer during a collaborative portion of the event. It is featured in service pamphlets and newsletters to members.
Our new partner congregation, Temple Emanuel, was very impressed and decided to create an accessibility flyer as well. It’s very powerful and proudly displayed at Temple Emanuel.
Something so simple brings an immense sense of openness to all members of the community. These efforts are some of the many changes currently taking place at our partner and affiliate congregations because it represents the core of inclusion work.
What changes would you like to see at your synagogue?
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