Jews for Social Action (JSA)

Jews for Social Action is the social justice group of the North Shore Temple Emanuel, established in 2001. With the motto "You can make a difference", JSA aims to educate both the Jewish and non-Jewish community about social areas of concern and to allow the Temple community to partake in Tikkun Olam.

I Speak My Mind Lectures

The "I Speak My Mind"series of regular Sunday evening talks is open to the wider community and has prominent people talking about issues of current concern. Some of the issues covered to date have been: refugees, Aboriginal issues, depression, dementia, human rights, global warming and a teenager and parent forum. This format has had the added bonus of opening up the Temple to many people from the local community and breaking down barriers.

As a result of these talks and symposia, JSA has established working groups which actively support some of these areas.

Refugee Support

We support the Asylum Seekers Centre (ASC) in Surry Hills with provision of regular lunches, supply of dry foodstuffs, school holiday and other outings, garden assistance, cooking and nutrition classes and computer training. ASC website: www.asylumseekerscentre.org.au.

Aboriginal Support Group

(a) Early Intervention Aboriginal Literacy Project

This literacy project using volunteer tutors, assists Aboriginal children on the North Shore to learn to read, especially those with learning difficulties. The programme has been developed through relationships with Aboriginal groups and Macquarie University.

 (b) Magazines to Outback Communities

This programme provides magazines to remote outback Aboriginal communities to assist with literacy and to provide practical information.

Donations to support this project can be made through Mazon at Emanuel Synagogue - 9328 7833.

Letters for Justice

This group writes letters to government on important social justice issues, such as the proposed changes to the Migration Act that affects asylum seekers' rights.

Youth Off the Streets Christmas Lunch

JSA volunteers support this annual event.

St Canice’s Soup Kitchen "Sunday night cheese on toast", Kings Cross

Volunteers from various faiths are rostered on to support the soup kitchen on Sunday nights.

Liaison with Union of Progressive Judaism Social Justice Project

Contact NSTE Office for more details.

JSA Committee

The JSA committee meets on the fourth Monday of each month at 7.30pm at the NSTE. Everyone is welcome to attend.

Volunteers

Volunteers are welcome to contact the above program leaders.

Please call NSTE Office 02 9419 7011 for additional information about JSA Activities.