Written by guest author: Elisha Serotta, Program Specialist, Center for Loving Kindness and Jewish Life
Last week Allegheny County saw the second-highest midterm election turnout since 1914 and the second highest turnout for young voters in the past 30 years. Additionally, around 60 million ballots were cast early, setting a new record. At the JCC’s Center for Loving Kindness, we are thrilled by these statistics, as our dream is to build an inclusive community that works together towards peace and prosperity through civic engagement. This feels like a moment when we are getting closer to that dream.
As the Hebrew month of Kislev begins, we reflect on the role of dreams. During this time, we read Jacob’s story, we see him dream about the ladder to heaven and wrestle with an angel. This time of year, also connects with the miracle of the oil during Chanukah and the darkest time of the year. In some ways this is fitting as this year’s voter turnout can be described as the light bringing us closer to our collective vision of people working together. We will never fully understand the difference that one vote can make, but it is so exciting to see many votes come together to make a flame.
At the Center for Loving Kindness one of the ways that we hope to create a more just world is through our Unity in Community partnership with the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh. With generous support from the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh and the Giant Eagle Foundation, we have been working together to organize a series called Curious Conversations bringing people together to explore big ideas, spark dialogue, and build connections. From combating antisemitism and celebrating diverse abilities, to LGBTQIA+ advocacy, resisting racism, interfaith dialogue, and promoting wellness, each session creates a welcoming space to learn, share and imagine stronger, more inclusive communities. On Tuesday, November 17 at Sampson Family YMCA, we will be focusing on Disability and Accessibility and how we can work together to support each other. We hope you will bring your light to the program as we continue to take actionable steps to merge our dreams into a brighter reality.
Wishing you and your families a Shabbat shalom,
Elisha Serotta
Curious Conversations: Disability and Accessibility
Tuesday, Nov. 17, 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Sampson Family YMCA, 2200 Golden Mile Hwy. Pittsburgh, PA 15239
This gathering is part of Curious Conversations, a series presented by the JCC and YMCA, bringing families, educators, and community members together to explore big ideas, spark dialogue and build connections.
From combating antisemitism and celebrating diverse abilities, to LGBTQIA+ advocacy, resisting racism, interfaith dialogue, and promoting wellness, each session creates a welcoming space to learn, share and imagine stronger, more inclusive communities. These conversations invite everyone to participate, listen, and help shape a more connected, caring world.