Dear TEE community,
For a number of years now, our congregation has observed Juneteenth as both an American and a Jewish holiday. Juneteenth emerged from celebrations marking the emancipation of enslaved African Americans after the Civil War. It is, of course, an American holiday, rooted in our history. It is also a Jewish holiday, because the experiences of African American Jews intersect with both that history and our spiritual teachings concerning liberation, justice, and the pursuit of freedom. Recognizing and celebrating Juneteenth encourages an inclusive understanding of Jewish identity.
The Torah repeatedly commands us to remember our own bondage and, therefore, to act justly toward the oppressed. This holiday resonates deeply with our own narratives and serves as an opportunity for American Jews to reflect on our roles and responsibilities in contemporary racial justice movements. It is a celebration that enriches the Jewish understanding of freedom, justice, and the ongoing fight for equality in America.
During our Shabbat services this week we will be discussing materials prepared by Rabbi Heather Miller, Chair of Ammud Jews of Color Torah Academy (ammud.org). These include Psalms, readings from an 1807 “Slaves’ Bible,” and excerpts from Frederick Douglass’ famous Rochester speech, “What to a Slave is the Fourth of July?” It should make for an interesting conversation and I hope you will be joining us.
Rabbi Drorah Setel