Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/772020
22 January 12 • 2017 jn O n Dec. 26, nearly 150 Jews and allies joined together for Detroit Jews for Justice's second annual Festival of Rights. At Red Door Digital, a commu- nity space in Detroit's North End, people gathered for live music, political education and, of course, latkes. It was an opportunity for those who have been working hard to celebrate accomplish- ments and introduce friends to this powerful community. In addition to our regular cam- paign and solidarity work, we announced two new projects: a series of learning opportunities around the anniversary of 1967 and a caucus for Jews of color. Leaders facilitated stations where folks could learn about some of the organization's core issues, like regional transit and water justice. We were joined by friends from the Motor City Freedom Riders, the Ecology Center and the People's Water Board. Traditional and less traditional Chanukah songs, like Peter, Paul & Mary's "Light One Candle," were especially resonant. I shared some reflections on the history and meaning of Chanukah and what it can teach us at this moment in the history of our country. Chanukah means "dedica- tion." It gives us an opportunity each year to rededicate ourselves to struggles for justice. At the Festival of Rights, new and old leaders committed to stretching ourselves in the coming year — to show up for learning, for action, for play and for the nitty-gritty. As the song goes: Kol echad hu or katan, v'kulanu or eitan — Each of us is a small light, all of us are a great light. • Rabbi Alana Alpert is director of Detroit Jews for Justice. For information, visit www.detroitjewsforjustice.org. The chanukiah was lit at the Festival of Rights. jews d in the RABBI ALANA ALPERT SPECIAL TO THE JEWISH NEWS Festival Of Rights HENRY FORD HEART & VASCULAR INSTITUTE If your heart could talk, what would it say? Come find out. With our comprehensive Heart Smart ® Screening, you'll get detailed diagnostic imaging and lab work, including a 7-point heart screening. And immediately afterwards, one of our cardiologists will meet with you to discuss your results. Put your heart at ease and make your appointment today. COMPREHENSIVE HEART SMART ® SCREENING 7-point heart screening One-on-one physician consultation $ 99 HenryFord.com/HeartScreening (866) 381-0005 YOUR HEAR T HAS A S T OR Y TO TELL. We're here to listen. 2140370