Disabilities

Disability Rights and Jewish Values

From RELIGIOUS ACTION CENTER

Historically Jews have reached out to help facilitate the full participation of individuals with disabilities in religious and public life. Judaism teaches, "You shall not insult the deaf, or place a stumbling block before the blind," (Leviticus 19:14). The Reform Movement has taken considerable steps to ensure that Jewish learning and worship are accessible to individuals with special needs, that disability awareness is included in religious school curriculums and that the structure of synagogues accommodates those members with special needs.

Yesodot

Yesodot ("Foundations") is an innovative Jewish community family support program for families with a child, youth or young adult with a disability. Yesodot provides social and recreational programs and family support for families; offers educational workshops and speakers; and disseminates information. Yesodot develops resources, participates in public awareness activities, and fosters community inclusion. Based on the idea that families know their own needs and can best determine their own supports, Yesodot is run by its member families. Yesodot is a service of Jewish Vocational Service, a nonsectarian, nonprofit organization.

National Jewish Council for Disabilities/Yachad

NJCD/Yachad enhances the life opportunities of people with special needs, insuring their participation in the full spectrum of Jewish life.

Parashat Naso and Disabilities

By RABBI BRADLEY SHAVIT ARTSON

The weekly Torah portion preceding Shavuot, parashat Naso, addresses the issue of dealing with individuals with physical disabilities. Rabbi Bradley Shavit Artson provides an insightful commentary. Yesodot ("Foundations") builds Jewish community foundations for people with disabilities by strengthening and empowering them and their families and by developing connections within and without the Jewish community.