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Or Tzedek is a Program of the Jewish Council on Urban Affairs
E-News – July 2010
Update: TWO SESSIONS COMPLETED, ONE MORE TO GO
We’ve just wrapped up our second Or Tzedek session of the 2010 season, and our final session of the summer is quickly approaching (Aug. 8).
Jam-Packed with Learning and Action
Participants have been engaging in jam-packed social justice programming while exploring their Jewish identities in the process. We can’t wait for the arrival of the next group of amazing teens to continue what has been an inspiring summer of learning and social action.
Teens met Rep. Jan Schakowsky of Illinois’ ninth district, and learned about her career as an influential progressive political leader. Schakowsky discussed her experiences as a woman and a Jew in civic life, and Or Tzedek teens shared personal stories with her in this informative session.
Learning About the Struggles of Others
 Teens met with undocumented young people living in Chicago who shared how their immigration statuses have impacted their everyday lives. The undocumented youth discussed how their legal status prevents them from obtaining drivers’ licenses and financial aid for college; and how they live with constant fear of being separated from their families. Participants learned that undocumented youth struggle for the same conveniences of life that we often take for granted.
Or Tzedek participants focused not only on collaborating with low-income people, but also on the Jewish imperative that directs us to work to prevent poverty. Teens collaborated with workers fighting for decent healthcare, living wages and job security. The participants listened, strategized and ultimately took direct action in protest while raising awareness on Chicago’s Michigan Avenue.
 Advocating for Affordable Housing
Participants learned about the social justice implications related to housing by approaching the issue from several unique perspectives. Teens engaged with public housing residents and advocates, held sessions with housing experts, and met with organizations that work with homeless youth.
Did you know that the average age of a homeless person in Chicago is 11?
Teens advocated for the preservation of affordable housing by knocking on doors and canvassing alongside grassroots organizations.
Unique Activities and a Unique Shabbat
 These action-packed sessions included many other unique activities, including environmental justice organizing and programs with inspiring advocates, organizers and community leaders. Teens explored these social justice issues through a Jewish lens by engaging in text studies and workshops led by a variety of rabbis and Jewish educators, and by participating in Or Tzedek’s unique Shabbat experience.
UPCOMING OR TZEDEK EVENTS
Take Action: Volunteer with Northside P.O.W.E.R.!
Northside P.O.W.E.R., a grassroots community organizing group in Rogers Park, is educating and engaging 49th Ward voters about the Rental Improvement Fund (RIF) Campaign.
The RIF program will offer grants to landlords to make capital improvements on rental units or apartment buildings in exchange for keeping rents affordable for the next 10 years. This means fewer condo conversions and prices that force out Rogers Park residents.
Sunday, July 11, 1 - 3 pm AND Sunday, July 25, 1 - 3 pm
7659 N. Paulina (off of the Howard red line stop)
For more information, contact Leah Roth-Howe, Or Tzedek Coordinator at: 312-663-0960 or leah@jcua.org.
Or Tzedek Summer Reunion
Or Tzedek is already four years old, and we already have established a young Jewish voice for social justice. At the 2010 reunion we will:
- Reconnect with old friends, and meet new ones
- Strategize how we can continue to create a more just Chicago throughout this year – we need your voice for that
Save the Date: Sunday, Aug. 22 in the afternoon (exact time and location TBD)
If you are an Or Tzedek teen or parent from past summer programs or projects, or any other teen interested in social justice, join us and feel free to bring along some friends. The more people involved, the better the event!
For more information, contact Leah Roth-Howe, Or Tzedek Coordinator at: 312-663-0960 or leah@jcua.org.
UPCOMING jcua EVENTS
Jewish-Muslim Text Study on Environmental Justice
Date to be announced. For more info, contact jmcbi@jcua.org
"Iftar in the Synagogue": Aug. 19
 Iftar in the Synagogue brings together Jews and Muslims every year to celebrate the Muslim holiday of Ramadan and the coinciding Jewish holidays (see video!). It's a place to bond with diverse and exciting people and work with leaders of two communities.
When: Thursday, Aug. 19 (evening)
Where: Anshe Sholom B'nai Israel Congregation, 540 W. Melrose, Chicago (map it)
SUPPORT OR TZEDEK
Each year, Or Tzedek continues to grow. It continues to inspire more and more young people who may pursue social justice throughout their lives.
The program highly subsidizes some participants so that it can be available to students from all financial backgrounds.
Or Tzedek would not be possible without your generous donations. Please consider a gift to JCUA that will that will help support Or Tzedek and JCUA's numerous other programs and work.
FOR MORE INFORMATION...
For info about Or Tzedek and related programs, contact:
Leah Roth-Howe
Or Tzedek Coordinator
(312) 663-0960 ex. 112
leah@jcua.org
www.ortzedek.org 
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