Social Action

Social Justice at CBI - It’s in our DNA

At CBI, we have a history of making a difference. Not only were we the first Jewish congregation in Austin, we were the first synagogue in Austin with a female rabbi, with a female cantor, with a gay rabbi, with a gay cantor. We pioneered the MLK Social Justice Weekend and we are long-time supporters of the Central Texas Food Bank, and Interfaith Action of Central Texas.

As our daily headlines list the brokenness of our world, we come together as a congregation to lay the groundwork of a better normal ahead. We undertake this work with a seriousness of purpose and light hearts. 

Vision 

The Social Action Committee is an inclusive group of volunteers at Congregation Beth Israel. Through education (limud), direct action (gimilut hasadim) and advocacy (tzedek tirdof), we promote social justice at both a local and societal level. This includes providing direct service, as well as working to influence policies and structures, so the Jewish value of Tikkun Olam can be realized in the public square. As a URJ Brit Olam congregation, we are deeply connected to the work of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism (the RAC) and RAC-TX. As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, our work is completely nonpartisan.

Mission

Social justice is a deeply-held Jewish value. Through social justice, we strive to change policies, structures, and institutions, and social norms so that they work on behalf of the common good. Social Justice also includes direct service and awareness initiatives that play a role in changing hearts and minds that can lead to systemic change. The Social Action Committee is an inclusive planning group that provides opportunities for all congregants to get involved, surfaces issues of concern, and organizes for action that leads to effective social change.