JUF February Focus: Disability Awareness

February is Jewish Disabilities Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion Month – an important time to think about the differences we each have and what brings us together. Whether you are looking for ways to support people in your life with disabilities, resources for yourself or others, or more knowledge about this important issue, we hope you take something valuable away from this email.

Meet Rachel: a young adult living her best life with help from Keshet

Rachel lives at one of Keshet’s three residential homes for young adults with special needs. Hear about her job, friends, relationship and what she wants you to know about inclusivity – something she practices herself every day.

When one size doesn't fit all

Rena Rosen, Inclusion Coordinator at JCC Chicago, started a Facebook group to connect crafters with individuals with unique hand structures who need winter gloves – and it’s only grown from there. Check out this bustling Facebook group that has provided gloves, hats, socks, and even baby booties to over 150 people in more than a dozen countries.

Twelve simple ways to be more inclusive

Looking for some simple ways on how to help make the world a friendlier place for people with disabilities? Read on for steps you can take to be more inclusive—today! 

Chicago's own Marlee Matlin dishes on her new film

Jewish Morton Grove native Marlee Matlin is starring in a new Oscar-nominated movie. The deaf Oscar-winning actress, producer, and activist gives the scoop on the film CODA—a story centered around the only hearing member of a deaf family. 

Teaching acceptance and inclusion all year long

February may almost be over but learning and acceptance can take place year-round. Check out this compilation of Jewish children’s books that highlight inclusion from PJ Library.

A moment of reflection with Rabbi Paul F. Cohen

In Proverbs, we read: “The soul of a person is the lamp of God.” (20:27) February is Jewish Disabilities Awareness, Advocacy, and Inclusion Month. Each of us is born with unique abilities, a beautiful and sacred soul that is God’s lamp. This lamp is also ours to use to illuminate the abilities we have and must use to our fullest and shine a light on the unique abilities of others. God calls us to be more “aware” and to “advocate” for each other using our voices and our actions. May we be as inclusive as we possibly can be to cause the light within to burn ever brighter to illuminate God’s sacred Presence in our world.  

Rabbi Paul F. Cohen, D.Min., D.D., Senior Rabbi of Temple Jeremiah in Northfield