Leader-full Movements

Newsletter June 3, 2024 Together, we're #keepingitsacred...

A Jewish woman has just been elected to become president of Mexico! I share excitement over this idea because I have never heard of a Jewish woman in such a high political office ever, regardless of the political affiliation she represents. It is exciting to know that Dr. Claudia Sheinbaum has the confidence of her country to lead thoughtfully and professionally. 

And, quite frankly, it is important for the Jewish world to remember that wisdom and intelligence exist in people of all genders, and that Jews do not only hail from eastern European countries, but also from Mexico, and everywhere else. Dr. and President-elect Claudia Sheinbaum, in fact, comes from an Ashkenazi father and Sephardic mother. The Jewish people are enriched by the experiences of these and other communities. I am excited because representation matters!

And this month, as it is pride month, reminds us that seeing the leadership of those who share identities with ourselves matters. May 22 was Harvey Milk Day, a day to celebrate the queer Jewish Mayor of San Francisco. He has become a gay and Jewish icon, as his placement in office has reminded people that Jewish and queer people have a lot of leadership to offer. 

It seems to me that the idea behind the Jewish-American Heritage month and Asian-American Heritage month (May) and PRIDE (June) and all the other months celebrating various peoples exist to remind all of us that many communities have lots to contribute to the world. And, that we are all better for the contributions of al.

Keeping It Sacred affirms that leadership comes in all shades, sizes, and experiences. Of there’s one thing that I have learned from the Black Lives Matter movement, it is the importance of creating a leader-full movement. and that means a  community full of leaders, where everyone can become a leader because it is recognized that within everyone is wisdom, perspective, and knowledge. And not only do we benefit from leaders from various backgrounds, but it also reminds all of us to treat each other as teachers of life.

Our Introduction to Judaism 18 week course just wrapped up, and again we are blessed by our leader-full movement. Two of our participants have stepped up to host further dialogue to continue the themes and topics of exploring Jewish life.

They join other lay leader volunteers like those who organize our KITS Creativity Club, those who have prepared presentations for our Rosh Chodesh Racial Justice Book Club, and those who recently organized our program on Grief in the Middle East.

Keeping It Sacred is nearly 5 years old, and it is so beautiful to see our community blossoming with our members stepping up to lead. My hope is that our members feel the confidence and trust we have in them to hold sacred space for one another.

As the Mishnah, Pirkei Avot 4:1 teaches, “Who is wise? The one who learns from everyone.” The more we can share of our experiences, perspectives, and knowledge, the more we all benefit. And how unique and beautiful is it that we get to do this as a global community!

This is how we are Keeping It Sacred…

Together, we’re #keepingitsacred...

Rabbi Heather Miller

Founder, Keeping It Sacred

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The above is an excerpt from a Keeping It Sacred newsletter. If you want to read the entire newsletter or any from our archives, please head over to: keepingitsacred.com/news 

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Thanks for your interest, and thanks for #keepingitsacred...