why chavuraction ? |
Why Chavuraction Circles?
We see CBI Chavruaction Circles as one of many initiatives in the larger ecosystem of anti-racist action in the Austin Jewish community. We hope to make people aware of how we live in a system that supports white supremacy, help people recognize the institutions that are part of that system, and build our individual and collective capacity to take action to disrupt those structures. We strive to create spaces where Jews of Color can be their authentic selves, share their lived experiences, while leading and/or taking part in anti-racist efforts within and outside of the Jewish community. Additionally, we strive to equip white Jews with knowledge, awareness, and skills to become better allies and co-conspirators to marginalized people of color within and outside of the Jewish community. Chavuraction Circles also connect participants with internal and external resources for projects that strengthen anti-racist efforts in Congregation Beth Israel and our local community.
Background
A natural extension of our congregation’s ongoing commitment to social justice, the Chavuraction Circles program was launched by Congregation Beth Israel’s Social Action Committee in August of 2020 amidst nationwide Black Lives Matter protests following the murders of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, and, here in Austin, Michael Ramos.
We see CBI Chavruaction Circles as one of many initiatives in the larger ecosystem of anti-racist action in the Austin Jewish community. We hope to make people aware of how we live in a system that supports white supremacy, help people recognize the institutions that are part of that system, and build our individual and collective capacity to take action to disrupt those structures. We strive to create spaces where Jews of Color can be their authentic selves, share their lived experiences, while leading and/or taking part in anti-racist efforts within and outside of the Jewish community. Additionally, we strive to equip white Jews with knowledge, awareness, and skills to become better allies and co-conspirators to marginalized people of color within and outside of the Jewish community. Chavuraction Circles also connect participants with internal and external resources for projects that strengthen anti-racist efforts in Congregation Beth Israel and our local community.
Background
A natural extension of our congregation’s ongoing commitment to social justice, the Chavuraction Circles program was launched by Congregation Beth Israel’s Social Action Committee in August of 2020 amidst nationwide Black Lives Matter protests following the murders of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, and, here in Austin, Michael Ramos.
“When you know better, do better.” Maya Angelou
Our vision is for the Chavuraction Circles to be one of many initiatives in the larger ecosystem of anti-racist action in the Austin Jewish community. We hope to make people aware of how we live in a system that supports white supremacy, help people recognize the institutions that are part of that system, and build our individual and collective capacity to take action to disrupt those structures. We strive to create spaces where Jews of Color can be their authentic selves, share their lived experiences, while leading and/or taking part in anti-racist efforts within and outside of the Jewish community. Additionally, we strive to equip white Jews with knowledge, awareness, and skills to become better allies and co-conspirators to marginalized people of color within and outside of the Jewish community.
Our mission is to build community through small group gatherings where we learn, unlearn, and are inspired to take anti-racist action. We will aim to support and connect each other with internal and external resources for projects that strengthen anti-racist efforts in Congregation Beth Israel and our local community (i.e. audit of our own community, forming working groups to provide recommendations to congregational clergy, staff, and lay leadership, leading efforts in local, state, and national advocacy efforts, etc.).
Our mission is to build community through small group gatherings where we learn, unlearn, and are inspired to take anti-racist action. We will aim to support and connect each other with internal and external resources for projects that strengthen anti-racist efforts in Congregation Beth Israel and our local community (i.e. audit of our own community, forming working groups to provide recommendations to congregational clergy, staff, and lay leadership, leading efforts in local, state, and national advocacy efforts, etc.).
Mission: Culture Change