Faith & Democracy at 250 Tzedek Center Summer Series

US Democracy is turning 250. How do we help it thrive for the next 250?

Join us for a summer series exploring the Jewish values, civic skills, and practical actions needed to sustain democracy in this time. We'll examine how our communities can strengthen civic life, engage across difference, respond to challenges facing democratic institutions, and prepare for meaningful participation in the months ahead. 

Participants are welcome to attend some or all of the events in the series! All sessions will be recorded and sent to registrants, unless otherwise noted. 

Hosted by the Tzedek Center: the Conservative/Masorti hub for social action and public policy. 

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Session Descriptions:

Why Should We Be Left Out? Grievances, Belonging, and Civic Life, Rabbi Charles Savenor, Tues. June 30th 12:00-1:00pm ET / 9:00-10:00am PT

How do we cultivate communities that can hold disagreement without fracture? Using Torah text and the Declaration of Independence, this session will explore how grievances and conflict can become invitations to connection and common cause. We will examine frameworks and practical tools for facilitating conversations across political and ideological differences, informed by Civic Spirit’s model of nonpartisan civic education. Participants will leave with concrete methods, ideas, and inspiration they can use in their own communities to help create “a more perfect union.”

This session is co-sponsored by Civic Spirit. 

Hidden in Plain Sight: Christian Nationalism in US Chaplaincy, Rabbi Larry Bazer and Rt. Rv. Ann Ritonia, Weds. July 8th, 12:00-1:00pm ET / 9:00-10:00am PT

Christian nationalism poses significant challenges to American democratic pluralism. Often presented as patriotism, religious freedom, or a return to traditional values, it can blur the lines between religious identity and civic belonging. Focusing on the military chaplaincy settings, this session will explore how Christian nationalist assumptions are shaping our civic space, the implications for the Jewish and wider religious community, and how we  can help ensure that public service remains welcoming and accessible to people of all faiths and backgrounds.

Bonus: Drashing Democracy, Clergy-only session by A More Perfect Union, Tues. July 21st, 1:00-2:30pm ET / 10:00-11:30am

This 90-minute webinar will provide sources, perspectives, and practical approaches for addressing challenges to American democracy from the pulpit. – Clergy only

The Case for Democracy, Ruth Messinger, Mon. July 27th, 1:00-2:00pm ET / 10:00-11:00am PT

Longtime Conservative / Masorti Movement activist, Ruth Messinger (former CEO of AJWS) explores the current threat landscape for democracy and what we can do to safeguard it.

Immigration Enforcement, Religious Communities, and Civic Responsibility- Panelists Rabbis Aaron Brusso, Tamar Grimm, Rachel Posner, moderated by Rabbi Amy Eilberg, Weds. August 5th 1:00pm-2:00pm ET / 10:00-11:00am PT

Panelists Rabbis Aaron Brusso, Tamar Grimm, Rachel Posner will share how their congregations have responded when immigration enforcement affects congregants and community members, offering practical examples of supporting and advocating for immigrants while navigating legal constraints and living out Jewish values. This session will not be recorded. 

Attendees will need to be verified by organizational affiliation. Participants will receive a separate Zoom link 24-72 hours in advance of the session. Thank you!

Voting as a Sacred Responsibility, Tues. August 25th 12:00-1:00pm ET / 9:00-10:00am PT

Voting is one of the most accessible ways citizens shape the future of their communities. As election season approaches, what can Jewish organizations legally and effectively do to encourage civic participation? This session will explore the Jewish case for voting, review the rules governing nonpartisan voter engagement by faith communities, and share materials for get-out-the-vote postcard campaigns.