Standing Up for Racial Justice: One year after the death of George Floyd

Today marks one year since the death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police officers. At Temple, we affirm every day our gratitude for members of the police force who keep our building and our community safe. And we are painfully aware of the long and lacerating experience of communities of color in experiencing injustice and violence at the hands of the criminal justice system.

Here are some ways you can get involved and stand up for racial justice:

• The Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) racial justice campaign examines behaviors, practices and policies through the lens of racial equity, diversity and inclusion (REDI).
• Join us for our congregational Shabbat service on Friday, June 18 at 6:15 p.m. as Jená Prystowsky, Temple member and wife, mother and writer, will share her personal story. Watch Temple communications for service details.
• Temple has two initiatives under way in this area. The Within our Walls and Beyond: Antiracism Task Force began last fall and is working together to increase awareness and education around race, bias and privilege. At the end of 2021, they will introduce a 3-5 year strategic plan for Temple to become an antiracist congregation. Also, 20 Facing Our Truths groups with a total of 175 people have been meeting the past six months in guided conversations about race. A glossary of some terms is available here. NewFacing Our Truths groups will be forming in the fall of 2021. Please contact Alexandra Horn to get involved.
• Advocate: With time running out in the 87th Texas Legislature, call Sen. Joan Huffman, Chair of the Senate Jurisprudence Committee at 877-673-7187 and tell her that Texans of faith support the criminal justice reform bills and ask her to have a hearing and pass HB 829, HB 830 and HB 834 ASAP.