NCJW Greater Dallas

02/02/2023

It's , please share these stories.
During this legislative session, NCJW Dallas will be also working on securing gun sense legislation in Texas.

If you want to join our advocacy efforts in March, please check our social media and website for updates and registration soon.

More information will be sent via our weekly newsletter sent on Friday. Visit our website to subscribe and/or check past editions.
📌https://mailchi.mp/ncjwdallas/subscribe-weekly-updates
📌https://www.ncjwdallas.org/weekly-updates/

The story of gun violence in the U.S. is often told through the tragic deaths that come with numbing regularity. But an often overlooked part of today’s gun violence crisis is nonfatal gun injuries, which occur with disturbing frequency and outnumber gun deaths.

This National Gun Violence Survivors Week, share the stories of those who live every day with the physical, emotional, and even financial impacts of gun violence: momentsthatsurvive.org

02/02/2023

starts today. As Judaism and the pursuit of social justice, including racial justice, are so interconnected, we all need to remind ourselves why racial equity, diversity matter.

02/01/2023

The EACH Act would be a critical step toward ensuring reproductive freedom FOR ALL. Join our ranks and urge your legislators to pass this legislation!

We're celebrating the introduction of the EACH Act this Congress! If passed, the bill would guarantee insurance coverage for abortion, end the harmful Hyde Amendment, and expand reproductive freedom. This is important progress in our fight to protect abortion access, and we will continue to push our lawmakers to pass legislation like the EACH Act to ensure that abortion access is protected reproductive healthcare.

01/31/2023

Some heartwarming pics to melt the ice: Texas Legends player James Banks III visited 6th graders Eladio R Martinez Learning Center a couple of weeks ago. Banks taught the students that school is just as important as sports and shared his motto:
“My discipline and my responsibilities are ALL MY responsibility.”

***Thank you, West Dallas Initiative Cochair Lori Karp, for making this happen - mentorship is golden!***

01/27/2023

Every year on January 27th, we pause for International Holocaust Remembrance Day to commemorate the day Auschwitz was liberated, marking the end of the Holocaust. the 11 million lives taken during the Holocaust and honor the the survivors who lived to tell their stories. This year, falls on the eve of and we carry the memory of those subjected to violence and persecution with us as a reminder of our obligation to make this world more just for all.

01/27/2023

The first NCJW Dallas Evening Branch Reunion was such hit and the genuine joy in the room was contagious.

Thank you to all of you who've made it and shared heartfelt stories about support, mentorship, dedicated community service and professional development. Deep connection and genuine sisterhood took center-stage and inspired us all.

01/27/2023

Never forget.
Light a candle.
Don't stay silent.
Share the lessons of the past.

01/27/2023

"The mind is not a vessel to be filled but a fire to be kindled, " Plutarch once said. 💯

By helping guide preschoolers and their families during HIPPY field trips, we're doing just that: igniting their passion for learning. Thank you to those of you who volunteered last Friday at the Perot Museum and will do it again tomorrow.

Stay tuned for the next opportunities to volunteer with HIPPY this spring! You ARE making a difference.

01/22/2023

Tell Congress to expand abortion access, not limit it. - National Council of Jewish Women

ROE v. WADE should have turned 50 **TODAY**!

Roe v. Wade, the constitutional right to abortion access, would have turned 50 on January 22, 2023. Instead, the Supreme Court overturned this right, leaving it to individual states or Congress to decide the fate of our right to reproductive healthcare. Please join us and email your lawmakers encour...

01/19/2023

EXCITING! After shifting to virtual meetings due to COVID, NCJW Dallas Food+Fit=Fun started in-person cooking and fitness lessons with HIPPY families. These highlights from the last cooking lesson at Richardson ISD filled filled our hearts. (And also made us hungry 😋.)

01/18/2023

Thank you to those who joined yesterday’s CATALYSTS event, featuring Dallas ISD Superintendent, Dr. Stephanie Elizalde. The event generated many considerations about pursuing and ensuring quality education FOR ALL.

Dr. Elizalde’s philosophy echoed the values that NCJW Dallas has been enacting for 110 years - social justice, fairness, empathy, and empowerment. We are excited about future partnerships and ready to roll up our sleeves and continue working together so that our kids feel included in opportunities, motivated to learn, and become successful.

01/16/2023

"Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter."- DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.

At NCJW Dallas, we are laboring every day to live by 's words.

01/12/2023

👪HIPPY NEEDS PEROT VOLUNTEERS ON Jan 20 & 27 from 9:30-Noon! (*Come for all or just part of the time.)
SIGN UP HERE: https://bit.ly/3X41ivp
💡 YOUR ROLE: To assist a HIPPY instructor with guiding the assigned preschoolers and their families from floor to floor.
💡 YOUR REWARD: To have a fun, informative day interacting with HIPPY families and to socialize with your volunteer friends.

01/11/2023

JUST IN: NCJW's 110 Anniversary Is Building Brighter Future With The "Supreme" Importance Of Friendship - My Sweet Charity

💗Thank you MySweetCharity for spreading the word about our upcoming Building Brighter Futures Luncheon!
PLEASE CHECK OUR EVENT PAGE: https://www.ncjwdallas.org/birthday/

We are beyond excited to be able to learn from NPR's Nina Totenberg, honor Regina Montoya and brighten up the room with WFAA's Cynthia Izaguirre. Our success will translate to better opportunities to build brighter futures for all our Dallas neighbors. Hope to see y'all there, on March 31!

Established in 1893 by Hannah G. Solomon, the National Council of Jewish Women is “the oldest Jewish women’s grassroots organization in the country.” For the past 110 years it has been loyal to its “belief in education, advocacy and community service.” To celebrate this milestone, they’v...

01/10/2023

📢 TWO DAYS LEFT!
NCJW Texas Legislative Training: Ready, Set, Advocate!
Texas Impact Briefing for NCJW Texas
January 12, 2023 | 7-8:30 pm

REGISTER NOW:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ready-set-advocate-briefing-for-ncjw-in-texas-tickets-488365312797

01/06/2023

If you are looking for a way to honor , our partners from America's Dinner Table are continuing their tradition. Join the table, join the conversation, make the connection.

Spend MLK Day engaging in conversation on the impact of race and racism to improve understanding across racial and ethnic backgrounds and experiences. Scan the QR code or click to register: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZcudO-tpjgqGtIwhBtZMCKm7Tx56INqUjw4

01/06/2023

👪 Have fun with HIPPY preschoolers and their families at the Perot Museum! Every field trip enriches their early childhood education and sets them up for sustained academic success.
*WHEN: Jan. 20 and 27 | 9:30 - noon.
*WHERE: Perot Museum, Dallas
SIGN UP TO BE A VOLUNTEER GUIDE: https://tinyurl.com/k39w6c3a

01/05/2023

The FDA just made it possible for pharmacies nationwide to fulfill prescriptions for mifepristone, one of the two medications used in self-managed abortions! (Misoprostol, the other, is already available.)

Both meds are safer than Tylenol and available over-the-counter in many other countries. But the reality is there are still too many administrative challenges, like requiring specific pharmacist certifications, to expect large pharmacy chains to offer these pills right away in the US.

This announcement helps more people receive abortion care in the way that works best for them — in person, by mail, or at the pharmacy. But let’s be clear: there are still too many obstacles and we will continue to push for simple access for all Americans to have self-managed abortions with pills.

01/04/2023

📢 NCJW Legislative Training: Ready, Set, Advocate!
Texas Impact Briefing for NCJW Texas
January 12, 2023, 7-8:30 pm
REGISTER HERE: https://tinyurl.com/2r8nvjzz

To successfully advocate for our communities, it is essential we are informed about how this upcoming legislative session.
THIS IS YOUR CHANCE TO LEARN HOW THIS YEAR’S ‘SAUSAGE’ IS LIKELY TO BE MADE!

01/03/2023

How the iconic Barbara Walters led the charge against antisemitism and social injustice (sometimes)

On Dec. 30, 2022, we said goodbye to Barbara Walters, the first Jewish co-host, as well as first female co-host, of an American TV news program. Her courage and dedication to good journalism have been tough acts to follow and her generosity unmatched.

May her memory be a blessing.

The legendary interviewer and TV personality from "Today," "ABC Evening News," "20/20" and "The View" has died at the age of 93.

01/03/2023

📢WINTER MEETING 2023 - "Catalysts" Series
Learn about the state of public education in Dallas from DISD Superintendent, Dr. Stephanie Elizalde.
✅ WHEN: January 17, 2023 | 10:30 am – noon
✅ WHERE: Topletz Auditorium - Congregation Shearith Israel
REGISTER HERE: https://tinyurl.com/vu5673h2

Hope to see you there!

01/03/2023

✨Happy New Year! We're looking forward to doing more good this year and hoping you'll join our efforts!
Learn more at ▶ www.ncjwdallas.org

12/29/2022

🎇 2023 IS ALMOST HERE!
Explore our 2022 Impact Report and feel proud:
https://www.ncjwdallas.org/2022-impact-report/

🎁 Kick off a meaningful 2023 by helping us build on what we accomplished together in 2022.
YOU CAN DONATE HERE:
https://www.ncjwdallas.org/donate/

12/26/2022

HABARI GANI? (Swahili for "How are you?")
To all of you who started celebrating Kwanzaa today, may you be filled with wisdom and light this week!



*Click below to learn about the 7 Principles of Kwanzaa.

Can you list all 7 principles of Kwanzaa?

The “Nguzo Saba” or as it translates from Swahili to English as “The Seven Principles of Kwanzaa” is a value system and set of principles which outlines the mission statement and intentions of Kwanzaa. From December 26 to January 1, a different principle is celebrated each day, highlighting African-centered themes and traditions.

Kwanzaa founder Dr. Maulana Karenga describes the principles as “…the core and consciousness of Kwanzaa. They are posed as the matrix and minimum set of values African Americans need to rescue and reconstruct their life in their own image and interest and build and sustain an Afrocentric family, community and culture.”

The Nguzo Saba are listed as:
🔴 Umoja (Unity)
⚫ Kujichangulia (Self-Determination)
🔴 Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility)
⚫ Ujaama (cooperative economics)
🔴 Nia (purpose)
⚫ Kuumba (creativity)
🔴 Imani (faith)

During Kwanzaa someone will informally ask, “Habari Gani?” or “What's happening?” in Swahili throughout the day. Somone will respond with the principle for the day, which today is “Umoja” which translates into English as “Unity”. To learn more about Kwanzaa’s history, cultural expressions, and to find fun activities for new families & children, as well as more information on the 7 principles, join our virtual Kwanzaa celebration: nmaahc.si.edu/kwanzaa

📸 Pinback button celebrating the seven principles of Kwanzaa. Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture

12/25/2022

Merry Christmas from NCJW Dallas

For those who celebrate, we send wishes for a Merry Christmas!
May your holiday be peaceful and joyous,
and your time filled with renewed energy for the year to come!

12/23/2022

🎁To spread more cheer these holidays, we also donated Christmas presents along with hats and scarves to the women and children at the Mosaic Family Services shelter. As Jessica Paz, the Assistant Shelter Director of the MOSAIC Multicultural Family Violence and Human Trafficking, said, "They were thrilled to receive them! What a joy they had in their faces!"

12/20/2022

Without our hard working volunteers, we would not have been able to bring some holiday magic to our West Dallas neighbors. We teamed up to select and pack holiday gifts that will be picked up today.

THANK YOU for donating your time this Hanukkah!

12/18/2022

Holiday Gifts for West Dallas Families

We're in West Dallas packing holiday gifts for our neighbors. What a perfect start to sharing our light this Hanukkah!

12/16/2022

HAPPY HANUKKAH AND BRIGHT HOLIDAYS!
May this be a Celebration of Togetherness, Health, Joy, and Peace.
May the light of Hanukkah shine on you all year long!
May YOU SHARE THE LIGHT with others!

Learn how you can share the Hanukkah light with NCJW Dallas:
https://mailchi.mp/ncjwdallas/six-ways-to-share-the-light-this-hanukkah

12/16/2022

CELEBRATE MEANINGFUL GIVING!
Last week, Joyce Rosenfield and Laurie Robinson delivered hats and scarves made by the Legacy Knitters to Gabe Allen Elementary students in West Dallas. Also West Dallas Initiative cochairs Michelle Rosenberg and Lori Karp are ensuring that teachers and staff receive holiday gift cards and cookies.

12/16/2022

🎁THIS SUNDAY❗ Help bring holiday magic to West Dallas families!
WHEN: Sunday, December 18 | noon-5pm
WHERE: West Dallas Multipurpose Center
SIGN UP HERE: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70a0f4cafa72da13-holiday#/

*You don't need to be there the entire time. Just specify your time availability in the comments.

12/13/2022

🎁 West Dallas Initiative NEEDS YOUR HELP with holiday magic!
If you can help on SUNDAY, please sign up here:
https://m.signupgenius.com/#!/showSignUp/70a0f4cafa72da13-holiday

12/13/2022

Biden signs Respect for Marriage Act, reflecting his and the country's evolution

"The road to this moment has been long, but those who believe in equality and justice – you never gave up," Biden said.

Yes, at NCJW Dallas, we've been advocating for equality and justice for 110 years. Today is a good day!

The bill signing comes after months of work on Capitol Hill and years of changed attitudes — even as the threat looms that the conservative Supreme Court could roll back same-s*x marriage rights.

12/11/2022

On Thursday, our volunteers delivered knit hats and scarves, snack treats and poinsettia plants to Stevens Park Elementary students and staff. They looked so happy!

12/09/2022

CONGRATULATIONS, CAROL!
This week, Carol Tobias was honored by the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation as an Unsung Hero for her service as HIPPY Cochair. For over 15 years in this role, Carol has built on the successes of her predecessor, Syl Benenson, and continues her passionate advocacy for early education alongside Cochair Jane Lachman.

Watch our short celebratory video. 👇

12/09/2022

This Wednesday, we discussed The Accommodation by Jim Schutze with Dr. Carol Francois and Rabbi Nancy Kasten and took home important lessons:
✅ Dallas ranks below New York, LA and Chicago in terms of low-income vs. high-income inequity;
✅ Dallas citizens need to press for sustained funding for adequate and fair solutions;
✅ Direct input from affected neighborhoods in South Dallas is crucial to generating effective solutions;
✅ Partnering with boots already on the ground matters!

Thank you to all of you who joined!

12/09/2022

🧶The Legacy Knitters just donated 430 sets of hats and scarves to our West Dallas Initiative and 40 sets to the Mosaic Family Services. Nonie Schwartz and President Debbie Greene wanted to express their deep gratitude. 🙏

SOME BACKGROUND ❤️
“Our knitters do such a wonderful Mitzvah, which means ‘good deed’ in Hebrew,” said Rivae Campo, volunteer coordinator at The Legacy Willow Bend. “These women knit and crochet every Monday as a group, and work individually in their spare time, to create these precious articles intended to give warmth, joy, and comfort for those that need it most."

12/08/2022

NAACP Celebrates Release of Brittney Griner

We needed some good news!

NAACP President & CEO: “Nothing can replace the time that she has lost, but we hope that her family can find comfort in the fact that Brittney will be free to celebrate the holidays with them.”

12/08/2022

Respect of Marriage Act

HURRAY! The Respect for Marriage Act will finally head to President Biden's desk and officially codify the rights to same-s*x and in*******al marriage into federal law.

*RATIONALE: The Supreme Court’s majority opinion to overturn Roe v. Wade, used the same legal logic to threaten the federal rights for people to marry whomever they love, regardless of race or s*x. The passing of the would ensure fair and equal protection of these rights, which in today's climate of growing violence against the LGBTQ community and people of color is essential.

12/08/2022

Antisemitism is rampant in our feeds, our conversations, and our streets. Today’s roundtable on antisemitism with the was a significant step, and we thank the Biden administration for speaking out against Jew hatred — but we should all call out antisemitism more, at every level of leadership and every aspect of government.