Related Blog Posts on Gender-based Violence

Gun Violence Prevention: We Must Take Action

Judy Wexler

The issue of gun violence became personal for me on July 4, 2022. On that day, this national crisis seized upon the quiet suburb where I grew up—about eight miles from where I currently live. During the Independence Day Parade on Central Street in downtown

Still Asking Why

Liz McOsker
Emily McOsker
I am very proud to be Emily McOsker’s mother. She is a very strong woman. In 2021, Emily was stalked. Fortunately, the perpetrator was identified, arrested, prosecuted, and incarcerated. Emily is sharing her story with us.

April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month

Shoshana Dweck, VP of Social Justice, Temple Shaaray Tefila, Bedford Corners, NY
Talia Shapiro Blank
April marks the annual recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM). WRJ is committed to addressing the discrimination many of us, unfortunately, have witnessed or experienced. As we look around our synagogues, it’s important to be aware that if you dig deep enough, you will find many people have stories. When we allow space for vulnerability and sharing, it keeps people from suffering in silence and allows room for change. For that change to make a lasting impact, it takes commitment from all members of a congregation or community.

Is it Ok to Hug You?

Trina Novak
Trish Joseph
Do you belong to a “Hug and Kiss” congregation? In our communities, we greet each other with big hugs often accompanied by a kiss. This is part of our culture. These actions are fine if the two people are in consensual agreement. But, what happens when community cultural behaviors cross the line?

Breaking up with Rape Culture

Kate Franklin

If you would have told 18-year-old Kate that she would one day openly talk about the most painful, and for a long time, “shameful” experience of her life to hundreds and hundreds of people, her jaw would still be on the floor. I am a survivor of sexual assault