Carolina Jews for Justice/West and Just Economics present programs on poverty Sept. 6 & 17

Press release from Carolina Jews for Justice/West:

As part of a state-wide “Call for Action for Raising Wages,” starting with Labor Day, Carolina Jews for Justice/West will be collaborating with Just Economics, to present two programs addressing the economic challenges of living in poverty in Buncombe County.  On September 6th a short film, “Faces of Poverty,” produced by Just Economics will be screened followed by a Q&A. The meeting will take place at Congregation Beth HaTephila, 43 Liberty Street in Asheville from 7:00 PM-9:00 PM.  There is no charge to attend.  All are welcome.

“At the core of its vision of a just society, Judaism demands compassion for the economically less fortunate:  You shall open your hand to your brother, to the poor and needy in your land.  Deut.15:11. Other passages of Torah require that the worker’s wages be sufficient to sustain life.  Our ethical mandate does not permit us to turn aside from our obligation to help those in need,” says Judy Leavitt, Chair, Steering Committee, Carolina Jews for Justice/West.

In addition, on Sunday afternoon, September 17th from 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM we will continue our focus on hunger and poverty with a “Poverty Simulation” led by Just Economics.  The meeting will be held at Congregation Beth Israel, 229 Murdock Street in Asheville.  This thought-provoking and illuminating simulation makes real what it is like to live as a poor person in Asheville today.  The cost is $10 and participation will be limited to the first 45 registrants.  To secure your place, mail check payable to Carolina Jews for Justice by September 13 to Carol Falender at 52 Griffing Circle, Asheville 28804.

“To act in a way that makes a difference, we must understand the condition of those who need our assistance and advocacy,” Leavitt added.

To RSVP for either or both meetings please email: CJJWest@CarolinaJewsforJustice.org.

Carolina Jews for Justice (CJJ) combines advocacy and education to organize a non-partisan Jewish voice in North Carolina.  We work to influence policy at the local and state levels and encourage individuals and Jewish institutions to take a stand in our community.

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About Edwin Arnaudin
Edwin Arnaudin is a staff writer for Mountain Xpress. He also reviews films for ashevillemovies.com and is a member of the Southeastern Film Critics Association (SEFCA) and North Carolina Film Critics Association (NCFCA). Follow me @EdwinArnaudin

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