Makloket L’Shem Hamayim: Argument for the Sake of Heaven

As part of Refugee Action Week, we are hosting a diverse variety of events that center on issues all around the world. We are so excited to invite *Jewish educators,* Jessie Sander and Elana Lipkin, to campus to lead a workshop on Jewish Values and Anti-racism. *This workshop was intentionally designed to be open to everyone in the campus community of all religions and political viewpoints. It was titled "Makloket L'Shem Hamayim" in order to center the fact that the main goal of this event is to engage in the Jewish tradition of dialogue and civil discourse "for the sake of heaven" with students, faculty, and staff across the spectrum.*

Jewish values and antiracism align closely with the principles of welcoming and supporting refugees. Throughout history, the Jewish community has experienced displacement, persecution, and discrimination, making them empathetic towards those facing similar challenges. The concept of Tikkun Olam, or repairing the world, is central to Jewish teachings and urges followers to act with compassion and righteousness towards those in need. Antiracism efforts also recognize the inherent dignity and worth of all individuals, regardless of their background or nationality. By advocating for the rights and inclusion of refugees, we embody these values and work towards creating a more just and equitable society for all.

Jessie Sander (she/her) is a Jewish special educator who works in synagogues and alternative Jewish education programs in Brooklyn. She holds a degree in Africana and Puerto Rican/Latino Studies from CUNY Hunter and a Master’s of Teaching Students with Disabilities from Pace University.  Jessie is currently studying at Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership to receive a Master’s of Jewish Professional Studies. Jessie is committed to creating more equitable, accessible, and anti-oppressive Jewish spaces for people of all ages.

Elana Lipkin (they/she) received their BA in Sociology and Women's Gender and Sexuality Studies from American University in 2019 and her Masters of Science in Social Work from Columbia University in May 2022. Elana is a queer, abolitionist social worker who works on an IMT team with folks who are unhoused and have serious mental illnesses and organizes with Survived and Punished NY. They celebrate radical Judaism and how powerful radical, queer Jewish community is!