Participating in the Or Tzedek program during my high school career truly shaped me into the person I am today. I learned about JCUA and Or Tzedek through my very good friend who recommended that I join, because of my interests and Jewish identity. I took their advice and joined Or Tzedek in the fall of 2021, which was my sophomore year of high school. Through joining Or Tzedek I learned about social justice issues that were prevalent in the Chicagoland area, and what I could do to be proactive in initiating change in my community.

The Or Tzedek program introduced me to the many different elements that come together when you are organizing. For example, I learned how to conduct a 1:1, a one-on-one is a conversation or discussion you can initiate with someone to use as a tool for networking and organizing. Additionally, being a part of Or Tzedek allowed me to learn how to canvass for campaigns and political candidates that align with my morals. 

Or Tzedek set up my connection with JCUA and gave me the opportunity to understand who I was as an organizer. Without being in Or Tzedek I wouldn’t have had the confidence to apply to be a Summer Intern in the summer of 2022, or serve as the youth liaison for the Community Safety Committee (CSC) for two straight years.

Being a member of Or Tzedek empowered me to seek change in my communities. One of the moments I felt most empowered while being a part of Or Tzedek was when we all went to City Hall and got to witness the inter-faith Bring Chicago Home event. Not only did Or Tzedek help me build my confidence but it also allowed me to build strong relationships, and most importantly strong friendships.

As I look back on my memories of being in Or Tzedek, I am constantly reminded that  I am more resilient, brave, strong, and proud of myself because I had the privilege of being in the Or Tzedek program.