Racial Justice | Do Not Stand Idly By | Jewish Federation of Cincinnati

As Jews, this is a moment to stand up and speak out. We will not stand idly by.

Where there is hate for others, there is hate for us. Moments of scarcity drive feelings of vulnerability. As uncomfortable as it might be to display our Jewishness outwardly, it is an authentic step towards reconciliation with ourselves and society. We believe Jewish security depends on a just society for all people. We must have the courage to stand up and speak out when we witness injustice because our interdependence is not a choice.

Just as our liberation is entwined with all humanity, especially marginalized groups nationally and throughout the world, we must also recognize our own unique power to actualize change.

Art has the power to provoke dialogue and conversation. Symbols and imagery evoke and inspire emotional connections in a way that words fall short.

This artwork is meant to inspire reflection and conversation as we look to our values for lessons in resilience and tenacity.

The Hebrew text “Lo ta'amod al dam re'echa” comes from Leviticus, and means “Do not stand idly by the blood of your neighbor.” The “eye” graphic represents our desire to hold to an ideal vision for the future: repairing our world – tikkun olam – and pursuing justice. The eye stands for “keeping an eye” on that which is important; pursuing the necessary work of justice we have been instructed to do – tzedeck, tzedeck tirdof. The eyes are the windows to the soul. When we lead our lives with our souls as the priority, loving thy neighbor will come naturally.

We will rise up and surge forward together, leaving no tribe behind, ensuring our tables are always set with a welcome seat for the stranger in our midst.

Do not stand idly by___________ . Our Jewishness compels us to come out and come forward.

Sep 22, 2020 | 7:00 PM
Oct 6, 2020 |  7:00 PM
Oct 20, 2020 |  7:00 P
Nov 3, 2020 |  7:00 PM

Share with Us Your Sign Stories

Whether in your yard, on your car, or in your window, share a picture of you and your art display or send us a video telling us how this initiative has impacted you.

STEP ONE: Stand Up: “Do Not Stand Idly By” Displays

Our Jewishness compels us to come out and come forward in this movement. Reserve a display for your home or vehicle featuring the artwork, inviting your family and neighbors to begin a conversation. You can select a yard sign, window cling, bumper sticker, or car magnet at no cost. If you choose to make an optional donation (suggested $18), your gift will support Elementz, an arts center for children in Cincinnati’s urban core. Displays will be available for pickup in September. We will be in touch with pickup logistics after you make your reservation.

Order Display Artwork Now!

STEP TWO: Speak Out: Conversations about Race

“Justice, justice shall you pursue."

In the midst of overt antisemitism and systemic racism, it’s easy to be confused and to feel overwhelmed. These conversations are an invitation for the Cincinnati Jewish community to collectively experience agency and relationship by processing what’s happening in the current moment and deepening our understanding of and commitment to anti-racism work. Information about joining these virtual conversations will be included when you pick up your display.

This initiative is presented by the Jewish Community Relations Council, part of the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati, in partnership with ish and The Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center. Special thanks to Rabbi Miriam Terlinchamp, Rabbi David Burstein, and Joey Taylor. Artwork is by Cindy Loon.