AJWS Blog

The AJWS community has a lot to say about what's happening in the world. Read our insights about the struggle for justice and human rights around the globe — and meet the activists on the frontlines of the fight to build a better world.

Larry Simon speaking at podium in black and white

The Origins of AJWS: Reflecting on 40 years of Human Rights Activism

Over forty years ago, I began discussions with leaders of major Jewish organizations, with synagogue Rabbis and their congregations, to organize the first Jewish organization dedicated to respond to world poverty, hunger and dehumanization. Eventually, and together with philanthropist Larry Phillips, I took a leap and founded American Jewish World Service (AJWS), stepping away from …

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group of girls sitting in a circle looking up

Marking forty years of feminist grantmaking

For 40 years, AJWS has been advocating for global justice and equality, and women’s rights have been an essential part of that fight. Feminist activists supported by AJWS have addressed many of the most pressing issues facing women and girls worldwide, from early, child and forced marriage to abuse like genital cutting and gender-based violence. …

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