Tzedek: Social Justice Action
Tzedek, the Hebrew word for justice, is the social justice arm of Congregation Ner Shalom. Guided by the Jewish value of tikun olam—repairing the world—we respond to suffering and injustice with compassion and equity. Allied with those who struggle, we strive to live our values through action. Tzedek, Tzedek tirdof—justice, justice shall you pursue. Tzedek has several sub-groups and areas of focus listed below along with the contact person.
Tzedek Sanctuary: Focused on two projects. Cotati Cares - supports local businesses in preparing for possible ICE raids. Our volunteers make visits, provide signs, resources, and guidance about employee rights. A second project is Adopt-a-Corner - we provide support, water, snacks, and information about workers’ rights to day laborers of Santa Rosa. Roberta: tzedek4theworld@gmail.com.
The Art of Listening: A peer counseling group offering a structured, supportive space to practice deep listening—a place to lean into your feelings, release what weighs on your heart, and practice courage, empathy, and presence. Meets 2x/month for 4 sessions. Ilene: ileneenglish@gmail.com
Palestine/Israel: Our current efforts center around education, including bringing films/filmmakers to Ner Shalom, and expert speakers on the situation between Palestine and Israel. As Jews, we feel compelled to take action against the violence, suffering, and injustice in the West Bank and Gaza. We also reach out to other congregations in solidarity against the Israeli government’s oppressive actions. Terry: terryngrosslaw@gmail.com or Bev: voloshin@sfsu.edu
LGBTQ: We work to educate, offer hope and respect, and to celebrate all those who identify as LGBTQ. This year our focus has been on the Transgender community, as they have been unjustly targeted by the government. This year we have been fortunate enough to work closely with Celebrate Love, a Trans-support group based in Rohnert Park, led by Athena Rowan-Goez and Cyd Omeallas. Jill Rose: jillsrose@gmail.com
Voting Rights: We work to preserve safe and fair elections, a defining pillar of our democracy. We contact our representatives to support legislation that protects registered voters from losing or compromising this right; provide information to help people check their current voter registration status. We also distribute “get out the vote” packets and hold postcard writing events to increase voter turnout. Abby: 18bogomo@gmail.com.
Support Group: We offer an online support group for Tzedek members to gather, vent, and get emotional support for their activism. The group is facilitated by two members of Tzedek. Jill: jillsrose@gmail.com.
Tzedek meetings are currently scheduled the third Wednesday of each month; time tbd. For more info or to join Tzedek, contact Roberta: tzedek4theworld@gmail.com.
Tzedek, Tzedek, Tirdof - Justice, Justice shall we pursue.
Recommended: Deposit your ballot at an Official Ballot Drop Box There will be 23 Official Ballot Drop Boxes available throughout the County for the June 2, 2026, Statewide Direct Primary Election. They will be open 24/7 from May 5 to June 2 (Election Day) at 8:00 p.m.
Our local day laborers are struggling in an increasingly unsafe anti-immigrant climate, with many now afraid to seek work at centers like Graton and Fulton Corners.
If you have work around your home, consider hiring a day laborer. Day laborers are widely known to be reliable, responsible, and hardworking. Language isn’t a barrier—some speak limited English, and tools like Google Translate can help.
Please click here to learn more about hiring and supporting day laborers.
Jessica Craven, author of Chop Wood Carry Water Daily Actions,
has created this
ICE OUT boycott list.
We encourage you to be intentional with where you spend your money.
Local Immigrant Resources Here
allies for immigrants resources here.
Sonoma Valley Resources
Today we are facing unprecedented challenges on so many levels. Our democracy is threatened: our fundamental rights as Americans are being compromised; our safety nets are unraveling; our communities are facing deportation, and our trust in our institutions is rapidly diminishing.
Many of us are scared, confused, unnerved and overwhelmed. And rightfully so. Some of us are ready to stand up and confront head on the oppressors and criminals. Many of us are both.
Regardless of where you are, you are not alone. You are part of something so much bigger than bigotry and hate and oppression and chaos. You/we stand tall upon the brave shoulders of those who have come before us and hopefully others will stand upon our shoulders. You/we have the strength of community to hold and nurture us; to laugh and cry and offer tender, quiet solace when needed; and you/we have the opportunity to be part of the opposition, voices for justice in 2025.
If you are interested in joining Tzedek or have questions, please contact Roberta at tzedek4theworld@gmail.com for information.
Please check this Tzedek page regularly for information, actions, events and community support.
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead
Tzedek Steering Committee:
Abby Bogomolny, Heidi Doughty, Ilene English, Rhonda Findling, Eszter Freeman, Jane Lawhon, Jill Rose, Rita Rowan, Roberta Teller, Centa Therese, Shoshana Fershtman (Emerita), Elaine Leeder (Emerita)