Celebrating Love and Equality at My Jewish, Irish, Same-Sex Wedding
The inscription inside the kippot (head coverings) shared on my wedding day read, "September 2, 2016, Marriage of Michael and MacDara."
Senate Committee Passes DOMA Repeal
The Defense of Marriage Act bars federal recognition of same-sex
Discrimination Begets Poverty
According to the National Coalition for the Homeless, 20% of homeless youth are LGBT (even though only 10
Defying the Nazis: The Sharps’ War
In 2006, the State of Israel proclaimed Martha and Waitsill Sharp “Righteous Among the Nations” – an honor bestowed by Yad Vashem, the Holocaust museum and memorial in Jerusalem, upon non-Jews who risked their lives to save Jews during the Holocaust. The Sharps became two of only five Americans so recognized.
A Legacy of Kindness, Generosity, and Love
Ironically, this week's Torah portion, Chayei Sarah ("Sarah lived"), is not about Sarah's life but about her legacy. Beginning with mention of her death and of Abraham's great mourning for her, the parashah primarily focuses on the Bible's first story of betrothal, namely that of Isaac to his cousin Rebekah. The relationship between their engagement and subsequent marriage, and Sarah's legacy becomes clear as the parashah unfolds.
Apples and a Different Kind of Honey
Every year, I set out apples and honey on our holiday table even though I don’t like traditional bee honey. This year, I have a solution.
Economic Justice on the Ballot
With Election Day coming very soon, it’s important to keep in mind all the items on your ballot that you’ll be able to weigh in on. States ballot measures—sometimes known as referenda, propositions or amendments—are issues of importance that are left to voters to decide.
A Powerful New Exhibit Explores Numbers, Judaism, and Symbolism
As the global language of humanity, numbers have been integral to Jewish life, rituals, belief, and history from antiquity to today. At a new exhibit, more than 50 contemporary artists explore numbers and their symbolic meanings through a range of media.
Hearing Refugees' Stories Compelled My Synagogue to Take Action
While volunteering at a refugee center in Berlin summer, through the auspices of IsraAID, I had the opportunity to hear some poignant, pe
When Can We Lie With a Clear Conscience?
I'm often asked, “Now that you’ve written about lying, do you tell fewer lies?” What nerve!