Against the backdrop of a global pandemic, America is reckoning with racial oppression in its past and present. What wisdom does Jewish tradition have to offer in this moment? In this episode (recorded at Temple Beth-El’s virtual Shabbat morning gathering on June 13, 2020), Rabbi Knopf and special guest Sherrina Gibson (a Temple Beth-El congregant who is also African-American) discuss the reignited movement for racial justice in America, and the experience of African-American Jews and other Jews of Color.

“Socially Distant, Spiritually Close” is recorded during virtual gatherings of Temple Beth-El in Richmond, Virginia, and is produced by Dr. Gillian Frank. Our theme music is composed and produced by Stephen Frost. Our cover art was designed by Judith Rushin, using a photograph by Miriam Aniel. These teachings, presentations, and conversations reflect the dynamism, warmth, passion, and kindness of Temple Beth-El in Richmond, VA.