Jewish Values and Social Justice
Jews have an enduring legacy of activism in social movements—the labor movement, the civil rights movement, the women’s movement and the LGBTQI+ rights movement, to name a few. We know what it feels like to be denied rights, to be treated as “others,” and to experience discrimination simply because of our religious identity or ethnic origin.
Today, American Jewish leaders are uniquely positioned to use their influence to support people in the Global South who are suffering from bigotry, violence and other injustices that are similar to what Jews have endured throughout history. Together, we’re guided by a shared belief that all people are created b’tzelem Elohim—in the Divine image—and deserve to live with human rights and dignity.
Why Now?
Many U.S. policies have harmful effects on millions of people who live far beyond our national borders. For example, the “Global Gag Rule”—a policy that blocks U.S. federal funding to international organizations that provide abortions or abortion-related services to their patients—has been put into effect by Republican presidents and then rescinded by Democratic presidents for decades. AJWS is working to permanently repeal this dangerous and discriminatory policy.
AJWS mobilizes American Jews and Jewish leaders to speak out against this injustice, among many others, and amplify the voices of our partners around the world—people who are often ignored or silenced in political decision-making processes.
How We Create Change
As the only American Jewish organization solely dedicated to ending poverty and advocating for human rights in the Global South, AJWS works with Jewish leaders to advocate for policies that will help people live dignified and healthy lives free from oppression. Through our signature program, the Global Justice Fellowship, AJWS inspires, educates and trains American rabbis to become activist leaders in support of global justice. This Fellowship is a selective six-month-long experience that includes a weeklong educational trip to a country in the Global South and the opportunity to advocate for policy change in Washington, D.C. We also facilitate learning and action opportunities for American Jewish clergy advocating for justice and human rights.
