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Archive | URJ Inclusion blog posts

Exemplar Congregations Pave the Way for Creating a Network of Inclusion

By Joseph D. Robbins , 12/15/2015
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Inclusion is a lengthy process that requires time, dedication, and a network of people committed to making change. Although it’s is a continuous, ever-evolving, and indeed never-ending process, 27 Reform congregations were recognized at the recent URJ Biennial as Exemplar Congregations, those that have made great strides in inclusion in all facets of congregational life. Some […]

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How Synagogues Can Be a House of Prayer for All People

By Shelly Christensen , 09/02/2016
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“I will bring them to My holy mount, and I will cause them to rejoice in My house of prayer, their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be acceptable upon My altar, for My house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples.” (Isaiah 56:7) How is it possible to achieve the Prophet […]

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How Synagogues Can Prioritize Disability Inclusion This High Holiday Season

By Jay Ruderman , 08/28/2015
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With the High Holidays just around the corner, Jews all over the world will be asking themselves how they can lead more meaningful and moral lives. Synagogue communities, too, will be asking themselves how they can become more holy and inclusive communities. In my years of involvement with disability inclusion, I’ve observed that change often occurs because […]

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How to Foster Inclusive Worship in Your Congregation

By Cantor Rosalie Boxt , 02/15/2018
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The purpose of this webinar, “Inclusive Worship for Clergy – A Discussion,” was to provide our communities with ideas and broader thinking around disabilities inclusion – particularly in worship and prayer settings. Whether or not you’re a member of the clergy, we hope it will answer some of your questions about disabilities inclusion and provide best practices that […]

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How to Say “Yes, and” to Inclusion

By Shoshana Nyer , 02/17/2016
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I live in the Jewish education world, while my sister comes from the improv world. Yet, even with my formal training as an educator, it is my sister who taught me the greatest lesson about inclusion of those with special needs in the classroom and the congregational community. She taught me the rule of “Yes, and…” […]

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