Shows
Uri L'Tzedek: Orthodox Social JusticePesach with Neighbors: Building Community Through Open-Hearted HospitalityCheck out this dynamic Zoom panel with Rabbi Hart Levine and Rabbanit Tanya Farber where they discuss how radical hospitality at the Seder transforms lives and builds community. Discover how opening our homes and hearts can create spaces of belonging, deepen Jewish meaning, and ensure everyone has a seat at the table.Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s YouTube channel:youtube.com/channel/UC_htFNr9duz-KJiXdtW8pIw ...2025-05-1544 min
Uri L'Tzedek: Orthodox Social JusticeFear No Pharaoh: American Jews, the Civil War, and the Fight to End SlaveryListen to this book talk on Fear No Pharaoh: American Jews, the Civil War, and the Fight to End Slavery, as author Richard Kreitner explores how six American Jews navigated the moral crisis of slavery during the Civil War—and what their stories teach us about conscience, courage, and identity.Purchase the book on Amazon!Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s YouTube channel:youtube.com/channel/UC_htFNr9duz-KJiXdtW8pIw ...2025-05-0932 min
Uri L'Tzedek: Orthodox Social JusticeVoices from the Canyon: Indigenous Leadership in Environmental AdvocacyCarletta Tilousi, a lifelong advocate and former Havasupai Tribal Council member, will share her story of protecting the Grand Canyon and advancing environmental justice for Indigenous communities. Drawing from over 25 years of leadership, Carletta will explore the sacred significance of Red Butte, the threats to the region’s aquifer, and the powerful legacy of Havasupai resistance and resilience.Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s YouTube channel:youtube.com/channel/UC_htFNr9duz-KJiXdtW8pIw ...2025-04-2835 min
The UPLift with Tzedek: Real Talk for Real ChangeLive from the Overflow: A Liberation JourneyWhat if the real power of community impact lies in the little, everyday connections—those ripple effects we can’t always see? This month, two brilliant minds get candid in reimagining community transformation, starting with a radical proposition: choose yourself first. The challenge? If we really seek to make a lasting impact in our backyards, we must begin from within before it ever gets to the boardroom or the block. About Amieris:Dr. Amieris Lavender, affectionately known as Dr. L, is a policy scholar, writer, and relentless commun...2025-04-2349 min
Uri L'Tzedek: Orthodox Social JusticeSacred Solidarity: Jewish LGBTQ+ Advocacy and Allyship In This MomentIn this episode, Keshet’s Southwest Community Mobilization Manager, Rachel Gollay, explores the urgent challenges facing LGBTQ+ individuals in the current social climate and how they intersect with Jewish values.Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s YouTube channel:youtube.com/channel/UC_htFNr9duz-KJiXdtW8pIw - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -STAY CONNECTED:Website: utzedek.org Newsle...2025-04-0353 min
The UPLift with Tzedek: Real Talk for Real ChangeLiving Legacy: A Sophie Dixon StoryCan one person really make a difference? This month, we put that question to the test—and the answer is a resounding YES!In this episode of The UPLift, Ms. Sophie Dixon shares her hard-won wisdom, reminding us that community connection is where the magic happens.About Ms. Sophie: From serving 15 years as President of the Shiloh Community Association to co-founding WRES 100.7 FM, Ms. Sophie Dixon's work has shaped Asheville across generations, including leading the local NAACP branch and launching a Community De...2025-03-2436 min
Uri L'Tzedek: Orthodox Social JusticeRenewing the Old, Sanctifying the New with Dr. Marc ShapiroIn this podcast, Dr. Marc Shapiro discusses his new book on Rav Kook. It focuses on new and surprising insights that have come to light from Rav Kook's recently published (and long suppressed) writings.Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s YouTube channel:youtube.com/channel/UC_htFNr9duz-KJiXdtW8pIw - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -STAY CONNECTED:Website: utzed...2025-03-041h 03
Uri L'Tzedek: Orthodox Social JusticeRabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik: The Lonely Man of Faith and Social ResponsibilityA dynamic panel discussion between Daphne Lazar Price and Rabbi Nati Helfgot exploring Rabbi Soloveitchik’s teachings as a framework for balancing personal spirituality with communal justice. This conversation dives into the challenges of integrating faith, activism, and ethical commitments in today’s complex world.Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s YouTube channel:youtube.com/channel/UC_htFNr9duz-KJiXdtW8pIw - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -2025-03-0354 min
The UPLift with Tzedek: Real Talk for Real ChangeHumanizing Headlines: Immigration Insights from JMProAre anti-immigration policies really about national security, or is something deeper at play? This episode of The UPLift explores immigration as a human rights issue as we sit down with Julio Tordoya, an award-winning journalist dedicated to amplifying immigrant voices. He shares how storytelling can be a tool for social justice—especially in times of rising anti-immigration sentiment.About Julio: Julio Tordoya is an award-winning journalist, educator, and co-founder of JMPro Community Media, a grassroots platform uplifting immigrant voices in Western North Carolina. For over a decade, he has br...2025-02-2428 min
Uri L'Tzedek: Orthodox Social JusticeEnd of Life Conversations & Advance Healthcare Directives with Rabbi Jason Weiner and Rabbi Shlomo BrodyExplore the critical intersection of Jewish values and end-of-life planning in this past fellowship session. Participants examined the importance of designating a healthcare proxy, ensuring medical decisions align with their values. The discussion also delves into how Jewish law informs end-of-life care and the role of a rabbinic consultant in guiding these choices. Practical steps for completing the Netivot directive and initiating meaningful family conversations round out this essential and thought-provoking session.Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s YouTube channel:youtube.com/channel/UC_htFNr9duz-KJiXdtW8pIw 2025-01-311h 03
Uri L'Tzedek: Orthodox Social JusticeExploring the Rich History of the Jewish Balkans with Marko GasparovicExperience Jewish history through a fresh lens as Marko delves into the rich and complex story of Jewish communities in Croatia and the Balkans. From ancient traders to cultural luminaries, from the devastation of the Holocaust to modern revival efforts, this recorded podcast offers a fascinating exploration of resilience, heritage, and renewal.Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s YouTube channel:youtube.com/channel/UC_htFNr9duz-KJiXdtW8pIw ...2025-01-3014 min
The UPLift with Tzedek: Real Talk for Real ChangeRise UP! Part 2. From Response Reflections to Reimagined RevolutionsWhen disaster strikes, how do we rise—not just as individuals, but as a collective? In this episode, we reflect on the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and ask: Can 2025 be the year of revolutions, not just resolutions? Let’s find out!Join the Tzedek team as we reflect on how shared humanity and bold collaboration can help us rebuild—not only in the wake of Helene but in co-creating a more equitable and sustainable future. Our conversation explores the transformative power of connection—how meaningful relationships and radical compassion can turn response efforts into long-term movement...2025-01-2731 min
Uri L'Tzedek: Orthodox Social JusticeHanukkah: Light in the Face of Darkness – A Call to Action with Rabbi Avi Weiss and Ruth MessingerIn light of the rising antisemitism and growing divisions in our society, this panel reflects on the enduring values of Hanukkah—resilience, courage, and the triumph of light over darkness—and their relevance in addressing contemporary challenges. This conversation explores themes of combating antisemitism, promoting justice, and fostering unity across communities.The panel features moderator Marko Gasparovic, an inspiring rabbinical leader and advocate for social justice, alongside Ruth Messinger and Rabbi Avi Weiss, both of whom have remained deeply committed to activism and leadership, reflecting the enduring message of Hanukkah....2024-12-2458 min
Uri L'Tzedek: Orthodox Social JusticeGod Shall Be One: Reenvisioning Judaism’s Approach to Other ReligionsIn our interconnected world, it is time to reexamine theological perspectives on the relationship between Jews and the rest of humanity with fresh insight. In wake of his recent book, Rabbi Dr. Yakov Nagen presents the foundations for a renewed understanding of a vital aspect of Jewish-gentile relations: Judaism’s view on the beliefs and religious practices of non-Jews.Particularly in the wake of October 7, 2023, as the Jewish people face violence justified by religious fervor and are met with rising waves of anti-Semitism, the need is urgent for religion to become a bridge rather than a barrier—a fo...2024-12-231h 03
The UPLift with Tzedek: Real Talk for Real ChangeRise UP! Part 1. From Crisis to Collaboration—Lessons from the FrontlinesHow do communities hit by disaster emerge even stronger and more connected than before?In this month's episode of “The UPLift,” we explore how Asheville, North Carolina, came together after Hurricane Helene, transforming adversity into a powerful lesson in unity, support, and renewal.We dig into lessons learned by those spearheading collective response, featuring community leaders including Andrea Golden from PODER Emma, Philip Cooper from Operation Gateway, Jess McLean and Toshia Sitton from Read to Succeed Asheville, and our very own Ta...2024-12-1631 min
Uri L'Tzedek: Orthodox Social JusticeNative American and Jewish Partnership for Democracy and Civic EngagementLearn from Rosetta Walker and Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz about the state of democracy post-election and explore how Native American and Jewish communities can continue to support the vulnerable and advocate for marginalized groups. Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s YouTube channel:youtube.com/channel/UC_htFNr9duz-KJiXdtW8pIw - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -STAY CONNECTED:Website: utzedek.org 2024-11-0836 min
Uri L'Tzedek: Orthodox Social JusticeZionism Without Idolatry: Power is Not to be Worshipped with Rabbi Zachary TruboffIn this shiur, Rabbi Truboff looks at the writings of Rav Moshe Amiel, a leading Religious Zionist in the early 20th century, who embraced Zionism but also critiqued it.Rav Moshe Amiel was particularly concerned that under the right conditions, nationalism's emphasis on power and violence could become a form of idolatry, and the consequences could be devastating.Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s YouTube channel:youtube.com/channel/UC_htFNr9duz-KJiXdtW8pIw ...2024-11-011h 09
Uri L'Tzedek: Orthodox Social JusticeBridging Faiths: Jewish-Muslim Collaboration for Democracy and ToleranceExperience a rich dialogue in our interfaith panel with Dr. Mehnaz Afridi and Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz as they delve into the essential roles of democracy and pluralism in their faith traditions. Addressing the complexities of the situation post-October 7th and the implications of the elections, they highlight opportunities for rebuilding bridges between American Jewish and American Muslim communities. Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s YouTube channel:youtube.com/channel/UC_htFNr9duz-KJiXdtW8pIw ...2024-10-3047 min
Uri L'Tzedek: Orthodox Social JusticeAntisemitism and Racism: An Interview with Rabbi Jonah PesnerRabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz interviews Rabbi Jonah Pesner, Director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism.Rabbi Jonah Dov Pesner serves as the Director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism and the Senior Vice President of the Union for Reform Judaism. Named one of the most influential rabbis in America by Newsweek magazine, he is dedicated to building bridges to collectively confront anti-Semitism, racism, Islamophobia, and other forms of hate and bigotry.Rabbi Pesner organizes Jewish communities to reach across lines of race, class, and faith in campaigns for social justice. He h...2024-10-0714 min
Uri L'Tzedek: Orthodox Social JusticeGlobal Health Philanthropy and Jewish Values - An Interview with Rabbi Erica and Mark GersonIn this interview, Rabbi Erica and Mark Gerson explore the motivation behind getting involved in global health philanthropy and the decision to support African Mission Healthcare as a platform for this impactful work. They also discuss the future vision for African Mission Healthcare in reducing global health disparities and how Jewish values and principles inspire private philanthropy to play a vital role in addressing these critical global health issues.- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -Watch the...2024-09-2727 min
Uri L'Tzedek: Orthodox Social Justice"Work, Workers, Workers' Rights, and Unions" -- A joint Jewish Labor Committee & Uri L'Tzedek event!Listen to hear expert, Adam Obernauer, answer questions like:* How can workers defend themselves today in their workplace?* What protections does joining a union provide?* How do workers gain the opportunity to join unions?Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s YouTube channel:youtube.com/channel/UC_htFNr9duz-KJiXdtW8pIw - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -STA...2024-09-1755 min
Uri L'Tzedek: Orthodox Social JusticeA Conversation Between Rabbi Yitz Greenberg and Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz!Rabbi Greenberg discusses his latest book, "The Triumph of Life: A Narrative Theology of Judaism.""The Triumph of Life: A Narrative Theology of Judaism" is Rabbi Greenberg’s magnum opus—a narrative of the relationship between God and humanity as expressed in the Jewish journey through modernity, the Holocaust, the creation of Israel, and the birth of Judaism’s next era.- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -To order Rabbi Greenberg's book, click the following link: https...2024-09-1056 min
The UPLift with Tzedek: Real Talk for Real ChangeOy to Joy! Insights from the Asheville JCCHow do we harness the power of joy to build a more inclusive world? The Asheville Jewish Community Center's (JCC) Executive Director, Ashley Lasher, has some ideas on how "Jewish Joy" can unlock community and connection both in and beyond shared religion, tradition, ancestry, values, and experience. Listen in as we discuss the vital role of the JCC in strengthening Jewish identity, celebrating Jewish culture, and building a more inclusive community in Western North Carolina.About Ashley: Ashley Lasher is an Asheville native with a deep-rooted history in the local Jewish community. Having...2024-09-0929 min
Uri L'Tzedek: Orthodox Social JusticeThe Social Justice Vision of the Book of Devarim (Deuteronomy) with Rav Nati HelfgotThe book of Deuteronomy lays out Moses' vision of the ideal society that should animate the Israelites as they take up residence in their homeland. One of the central parts of that vision is a society driven by concern for social justice. We will examine key elements of the mitzvot that try to achieve those goals on a personal, communal and national level as presented in Moses' last oration.Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s YouTube channel:youtube.com/channel/UC_htFNr9duz-KJiXdtW8pIw 2024-08-2057 min
The UPLift with Tzedek: Real Talk for Real ChangeHealing with Heart: Reclaiming Wellness Through Radical ConnectionIs empathy an antidote to oppression? This month, "cultural edge walker" April Easter shares her unique journey and the wisdom she's acquired over 20 years in the field, including her pivot from criminology to radical compassion. This candid discussion sheds light on the indispensable role of community in the healing journey, highlighting the profound impact of empathy and inclusivity on individual and societal transformation.About April: April Easter is a licensed clinical mental health counselor supervisor and licensed clinical addiction specialist based in Asheville, North Carolina. With over two decades of experience...2024-08-1928 min
Uri L'Tzedek: Orthodox Social JusticeStigma in the Jewish Community- What's the big secret about addiction? An Interview with Rabbi Chaim TureffHow and why do we maintain the status quo which makes it difficult for those struggling with addiction to come forward? In this podcast, we look at the Torah as a guide to remind us of how to help those struggling with addiction and to open the door for those that are struggling in private.Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s YouTube channel:youtube.com/channel/UC_htFNr9duz-KJiXdtW8pIw ...2024-08-0529 min
Uri L'Tzedek: Orthodox Social JusticeShould we publicly advocate that Hasidic children receive a secular education?Beatrice Weber joins Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz for an interview to discuss how the value of כל ישראל ערבים זה בזה (every Jew is responsible for one another), is crucial in advocating for Hasidic children to receive a basic education.Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s YouTube channel:youtube.com/channel/UC_htFNr9duz-KJiXdtW8pIw - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -STAY CONNECTED:Website: utzedek.org New...2024-07-2919 min
Uri L'Tzedek: Orthodox Social JusticePursuing Justice Even When it's Hard: Overcoming Racism and Antisemitism with Rabbi Jonah PesnerRabbi Jonah Pesner on Pursuing Justice Even When it's Hard: Overcoming Racism and Antisemitism Rabbi Pesner reflects on the Reform Movement's long-time racial justice commitments and the more recent challenges from rising bigotry and authoritarianism. He also addresses the dynamics that have emerged in the US since the Hamas attacks. Lastly, he discusses how we can engage the community in a conversation about steps to build collaboration with others, even in today’s polarized environment.Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s YouTube channel:ht...2024-07-2351 min
Uri L'Tzedek: Orthodox Social JusticeWas Avraham right to listen to God? ‘Yirat Elokim’ – Fearing God as the Development of a Moral Conscience - with Dr. Tanya WhiteDr. Tanya White at Uri L’Tzedek on “‘Yirat Elokim’ – Fearing God as the Development of a Moral Conscience”This shiur explored the idea of ‘yirat elokim’ as the development of moral conscience. Using the Akeida narrative as a framing paradigm it journeys through an exploration of the concept of yirat elokim in Torah including Yosef, the Hebrew midwives and Amalek (as the anti-paradigm). Integrating psychological, philosophical and traditional commentary our analysis will question the premise of Divine authority as a premise for ethical behavior and show how a deeper understanding of biblical narratives can help us navi...2024-07-151h 05
Uri L'Tzedek: Orthodox Social JusticeMental Health in the Jewish Community - A Panel with Uri L'TzedekFrom addiction to depression, mental health issues are present at all levels of our community just like every other. Come hear from experts in the field as they discuss mental health care in the Jewish community. Find out what you can do to support loved ones and receive insight into their experiences.Watch the video recording of this class on Uri L’Tzedek’s YouTube channel:youtube.com/channel/UC_htFNr9duz-KJiXdtW8pIw STAY CONNECTED:Website: utzedek.orgNewsletter: utzedek.org/subscribeFacebook: facebook.com/uriltzedekYouTube: youtube.com/c...2024-06-2059 min
The UPLift with Tzedek: Real Talk for Real ChangeTzedek Transitions: From Staff to SocietyHappy Pride Month and Happy Juneteenth! Both celebrations commemorate the relentless pursuit of liberation, honoring the places we've been and progress we've made while pushing for continued change. In this episode, we're serving Funder-Frontline Realness in welcoming Zeke Christopoulos, our new Director of Mindful Operations & Finance. As a Middle Eastern, Jewish, queer, trans person, Zeke brings a depth of intersectional personal and professional experiences to Tzedek.Get to know Zeke in this candid conversation offering a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of visibility and representation within minoritized communities. This Big Talk goes deep, from...2024-06-1936 min
The UPLift with Tzedek: Real Talk for Real ChangeA Culture of Care: Insights from the Last 8 YearsWhat does it mean to build a culture of care? This month, we answer this question as we say goodbye to our outgoing Director of Mindful Operations & Finance, Lindsay Majer, who shares her experiences and reflects on her growth during her eight-year journey at Tzedek. In this episode, Lindsay opens up about the complexities of crafting people-centered policies that align with organizational values and withstand legal scrutiny. This candid conversation offers a glimpse of the struggles around identity, privilege, and trust innate to equity work as we examine what it truly means to create and maintain an o...2024-05-2026 min