As we honor the remarkable legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on his birthday, I think about how his wisdom and kindness still stand out and are desperately needed to guide us through today’s challenging moment. I cannot imagine the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. approving of the way Jews are being treated today. The preacher who wrote “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere” (from Letter from a Birmingham Jail,” 1963)  would speak out about the October 7th Massacre, shouting from the treetops about the hostages, “Bring them home!”

Dr. King did not march alone back then. Jewish leaders Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel and Rabbi Joachim Prinz were great friends and supporters. Dr. King said, “Peace for Israel means security, and we must stand with all our might to protect its right to exist, its territorial integrity. I see Israel as one of the great outposts of democracy in the world, and a marvelous example of what can be done, how desert land can be transformed into an oasis of brotherhood and democracy. Peace for Israel means security and that security must be a reality.” He understood that antisemitism was a heinous form of hatred and believed that Israel deserved peace and security. He spoke at many synagogues back then. Were Dr. King alive today and learned about the diversity and inclusion work Or Ami is doing now, he might have joined Rabbi Paul, Rabbi Lana, and Cantor Kyle to speak from Or Ami’s bimah.

Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday is an opportune moment to reflect on the progress the Jewish community has made in embracing diversity within our communities. Synagogues, as centers of spiritual connection and community, play a pivotal role in fostering inclusivity. Congregation Or Ami stands as a shining example of this commitment, particularly in welcoming Jews of color (JOC) and their families into our community.

In the spirit of Dr. King’s dream, Or Ami has dedicated itself – from our earliest years – to creating an environment where diversity is not just acknowledged but celebrated. This commitment is rooted in the understanding that our strength as a community lies in the rich tapestry of backgrounds, cultures, and experiences that our members bring. In fact, what we used to call our “Inclusion committee” is now known as our “Mosaic committee” because we see ourselves as a mosaic of Moses’ people. 

While it is essential to celebrate the progress made, it is equally important to acknowledge the work that lies ahead. According to recent demographic studies, the American Jewish community is becoming increasingly diverse, with a growing number of Jews identifying as people of color. It is estimated that Jews of color make up a significant and vibrant segment of the Jewish population, contributing to the cultural richness and dynamism of our community. In a study conducted by PEW Research Center in 2019-2020, 13% of US Jews live in multiracial households and 17% live in households where at least one person is Hispanic, Black, Asian, other races or multiracial. In that same study they found, young Jewish adults are more racially and ethnically diverse: 28% of Jews ages 18-29 identify as a Jew of color. Clearly we have work to do to ensure that synagogues fully embrace all Jews. 

Congregation Or Ami’s commitment to embracing diversity, in partnership with the Jewish Federation, aligns with this changing landscape, recognizing the importance of ensuring that all Jews, regardless of their background, find a welcoming space within the congregation. By actively fostering an environment where everyone’s unique identity is acknowledged and respected, Or Ami is taking concrete steps to fulfill the vision of an inclusive Jewish community.

As we celebrate Dr. King’s birthday, let us use this occasion to reflect on the values that define us as a community and renew our commitment to creating a world where everyone, regardless of their background, is welcomed, respected, and celebrated. In doing so, we honor Dr. King’s legacy and contribution to the ongoing work of building a society that reflects the ideals of justice, compassion, and unity for which he so passionately advocated.