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Everyone has the power to make change in the world! Sometimes it can seem daunting because there is so much work to do. What if we break it down into smaller actions? If everyone chooses a few small actions, that can lead to big change in your communities. Use these texts to discuss ways you can help repair the world, advocate for change, and inspire others to do the same.

D’varim 30:11-14

Surely, this Instruction which I enjoin upon you this day is not too baffling for you, nor is it beyond reach. It is not in the heavens, that you should say, “Who among us can go up to the heavens and get it for us and impart it to us, that we may observe it?” Neither is it beyond the sea, that you should say, “Who among us can cross to the other side of the sea and get it for us and impart it to us, that we may observe it?” No, the thing is very close to you, in your mouth and in your heart, to observe it.

Ibn Ezra on D’varim 30:14

For the heart is the core of the commandments. Some commandments require the uttering of statements which serve to reinforce the heart. Others consist of deeds so that a person will utter the required statements.

Shabbat 54b:20

Anyone who is able to protest against the transgressions of one’s household and does not, is punished for the members of the household; anyone who is able to protest against the transgressions of one’s townspeople and does not is punished for the transgressions of the townspeople; anyone who is able to protest against the transgressions of the entire world and does not is punished for the transgressions of the entire world.

Pirkei Avot 2:16

Rabbi Tarfon used to say: It is not your duty to finish the work, but neither are you free to desist from it.

Vayikra 19:16

Do not deal basely with members of your people. Do not stand idly by the blood of your fellow: I am Adonai.

Questions to consider

1. When was a time you had to stand up for something you believe in? What did that feel like? (Was it easy or challenging? Did you have support? What was the outcome?)
2. What does the world of your dreams look like? What are some small steps you can take to make that world possible? What about larger steps?
3. How can you inspire others to turn hope for a better world into action?
4. Have you ever organized your friends, family, or community, to give back to others? (Mitzvah project, fundraiser, community service, etc) What was that like? What was the response from your community? If you haven’t, what is something you would like to get your community involved in to make a difference?
5. How can you use these ideas of advocacy, action, and justice, in your community to create spaces where everyone feels like they belong.