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May 31, 2020

A Statement from the Greater Miami Jewish Federation on the Murder of George Floyd

May 31, 2020 – The Greater Miami Jewish Federation denounces the tragic murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Minnesota on May 25, at the hands of police officers while he was handcuffed and helpless on the ground, pleading for his life. This death is yet another in a disturbingly long list of similar incidents and inexcusable injustices that have been perpetrated against African Americans across the United States. We call on people of all races, ethnic backgrounds and faiths to speak up now against the systemic racism that is a long-standing disgrace, for which we all share responsibility.

Civil rights icon, Congressman John Lewis – whose call for peaceful protests recognizes that justice has been denied for far too long – has implored all people of goodwill to: “…Organize. Demonstrate. Sit in. Stand-up. Vote. Be constructive, not destructive.” This weekend saw violent demonstrations throughout the country, including in our own community. We join Congressman Lewis in his call and we pray that, through justice, peaceful solutions are found.

The Federation, through its Jewish Community Relations Council, will continue its ongoing initiatives in common cause with the Black community. We will continue to work closely together to educate, engage and advocate against hate, and specifically against the racism we continue to witness in the United States.

As Jews we know personally and painfully the dangers of unchecked hatred, particularly when it becomes institutionalized within the structures of society. Our tradition teaches us that all humans are created in the image of G-d and compels us not to stand idly by. George Floyd should not have died. He, his family, African Americans everywhere and all who have suffered as a result of discrimination and bigotry are entitled to justice and freedom from hate. As victims of racism, they deserve no less.

Our nation’s children and grandchildren are watching. Each of us has a responsibility to cry out against injustice and to join together in finding a constructive and peaceful path forward.

Jewish Miami Offers Kever Avot

Jewish Miami Offers Kever Avot

Offered at a variety of cemeteries and virtually on Zoom, participants will join together in memory and prayer and light a yahrzeit candle for those who brought light into this world. Following the short program, you can visit the graves of loved ones with relevant materials provided.

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Limited Number of High Holidays Services Seats Available

Limited Number of High Holidays Services Seats Available

The Greater Miami Jewish Federation and the Rabbinical Association of Greater Miami are once again partnering with local synagogues to make High Holiday services accessible to all.

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All Are Welcome to Worship in Jewish Miami

All Are Welcome to Worship in Jewish Miami

As we approach the High Holidays, it’s important to remember that all people — those with disabilities and those without — want to participate in community prayer. That is why Federation’s Miami Jewish Abilities Alliance (MJAA) is sharing valuable resources to elevate worship and celebrate Judaism.

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Women’s Philanthropy Installs New Board

Women’s Philanthropy Installs New Board

Hundreds of people from across Jewish Miami gathered recently at the Miami Beach Botanical Gardens to thank the outgoing Federation Women’s Philanthropy Board of Directors for their outstanding service and to install new leadership for the coming year.

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