Rabbi's Week in Review Blog

This week, here in Kansas City and across the country, we observe the “ Yahrzeit” of the late Congressman and civil rights leader John Lewis. Lewis was a leader among leaders in advocating for voting rights and preserving and strengthening our democracy.  In Kansas City, there will be a program honoring his memory this Thursday, July 17, beginning at 6 PM at the Swope Park Band Pavilion. (Full disclosure, I will have the honor of being one of the speakers.) At a time when our democracy is under attack like no other time in my lifetime, and there is an environment of fear around fighting back against authoritarianism, it is more important than ever to act with courage and not be paralyzed with fear by being out front and acting, much like the example set by John Lewis.

This is a week in which the MO legislature and governor ignored the clear will of the people who voted for ensconcing the right to an abortion as part ot the Missouri Constitution, as well as overturning the will of the voters by taking away paid sick leave. The fight to make our votes count and our voices heard, the fight to preserve our democracy is a fight we engage in for every generation.  Now is the time for us to overcome our fear and act. Hope to see you all on July 17.