We are living in a time where it feels like many minority communities are under attack or under threat, including our Jewish community. And in times like this, one instinct is to retreat inward – to hunker down. At the Alliance, one of our core values is Hineni, standing with others so no one stands alone. We know that Hineni translates to, “Here I am.” It’s about stepping up when others may choose to step back. 

While this would typically be an off week for my Shabbat message, I did not want to let February pass by without recognizing the importance of Black History Month.

As I mentioned in previous messages, the goals of our new strategic plan focus on building connections and keeping our community safe while addressing rising antisemitism. Over the next three years we will continue to strengthen our relationships with other minority and ethnic communities, building on the relationships we have valued for decades. It is well known that Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel marched with Dr. King during the Civil Rights movement, and here in Rhode Island, our Jewish community has long built ties with the African American community. 

Last year, when the Shiloh Gospel Church was the victim of an arson attack that was deemed a hate crime, I was so proud of our community members and rabbis who went to the church in solidarity. And I was proud that our community security director helped the church identify ways they can increase security and helped them to apply for federal funds to implement the improvements. 

I encourage you to read our recent blog post about the cultural contributions made to our country by those who identify as both Black and Jewish. These contributions are something we can all be proud of. 

At the Alliance, we continue to work to strengthen relationships with other communities — because our values dictate it, and because it improves the overall safety of everyone. The more present we are, the more active we are, the more we stand with others, the harder it is to hate. I’m excited to strengthen our relationships with all ethnic and religious communities that call Rhode Island home, and I hope you all will find ways to do this work with us. 

Until next time, I wish you a safe, peaceful, and joyous Shabbat. 

Shabbat Shalom,
Adam Greenman
President & CEO