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.

Tikkun Olam in a Pandemic and Beyond: Acting Together Globally

This essay was published in February 2021 in The Peoplehood Papers, a project of The Center for Jewish Peoplehood Education in collaboration with AJWS, JDC Entwine, OLAM, Repair and Gabriel Project Mumbai. Click here to read the complete collection. In the midst of a global pandemic, social unrest, economic uncertainty and the climate crisis, many …

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A Jewish call to action during Black History Month

Each Black History Month serves as an opportunity for me—A Black, Jewish, gay, American man—to celebrate the legacy of the changemakers who came before me, whose shoulders I stand on, and whose hard work allows me to live and work the way that I do. During this most unusual year, I’m looking toward the future …

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Enduring Clashes and COVID-19, the Ogiek People Find Hope in the Soil

For Daniel Kobei and other leaders of his indigenous community in Kenya, May 26, 2017 marked the victory of a lifetime. Everything they’d worked tirelessly to achieve finally materialized, as they won the legal rights to their land after years of struggle. Daniel is a member of Kenya’s Ogiek people—a small community of just over …

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Stories of hope to warm up your winter

We’re pleased to share with you the winter edition of Stories of Hope & Resilience, a special selection of stories from the advocates we support around the world, who are leading the fight for human rights. As an AJWS supporter, you make their work possible — these stories wouldn’t exist without you. Here in the …

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I’m Ready, Are You?

I have to admit, I am breathing easier. I am feeling hopeful after hearing President Biden say these simple but truthful words: “This is democracy’s day. A day of history and hope, of renewal and resolve.” Most profoundly, I am relieved that with these words, we are turning a page in American and world history. …

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