In our tradition it is taught that one life lost is an entire world lost. The pain of intergenerational trauma is one that our community is familiar with and for many reasons we mourn for the discovery of 215 children in an unmarked grave outside a residential school in Kamloops. We have sent a letter of support on behalf of the community to Grand Chief Watchmaker of the Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations. If you think our government should be making further investigations, you can write to your MPs.
If you want to further educate yourself about Indigenous history and culture the University of Alberta offers free courses. On June 21 the Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society has an Indigenous People’s Day celebration you can attend to immerse yourself and show support as well.
Temperatures in Edmonton are rising, and If you found this past week too hot to handle, we have an event for you on Sunday that will keep the heat going! Talking about “Occupation” and exploring it from different angles will not be our usual talk about Israel…join us for the last guest in our Jewish Speakers Series, Robbie Gingras, straight from the Galilee. It is not too late to register.
We continue with our advocacy efforts to combat antisemitism locally, provincially, and nationally. Supporting students on campus and in high schools has been a focus as well and we appreciate all who continue to share articles on social media and take a moment to write to their politicians as well.
Fun fact about Israel- did you know it is the only country in the Middle East to recognize same sex marriage? This week marks the beginning of Pride month and we want to take a moment to say Happy Pride! Please join us next weekend June 11-12 along with Temple Beth Ora for Pride Shabbat on Friday night and Saturday morning. While an in-person event is still not possible, we look forward to finding meaningful ways for our community to engage in Pride celebrations in the coming year.
This is your last chance to fill out the strategic planning survey – we are close to 450 surveys and each and every one matters. Can you help us with one last push by sharing the survey link with friends and family? Every voice is important and we want to hear from as many as possible by Sunday, June 6! Bonus – there is also a chance to win gift cards and we will be excited to announce the winners next week!
Are you a newcomer to Edmonton (last three years) or a young adult in your 20s? We have focus groups (and some Starbucks gift cards for participants) so let us know if you are interested!
Shabbat Shalom,
Stacey