National Women's Month

Megillat Esther is not called Megillat Mordechai for a reason. It is Esther who models an approach to a crisis by involving those around her in a solution. Although Esther is the one who steps up, she could not have done it without the support of others.

With the story of Esther still ringing in our ears, I invite you to celebrate National Women’s Month by going to the following websites:

• The NATIONAL WOMEN'S HISTORY ALLIANCE announced the women's history theme for 2023: “Celebrating Women Who Tell Our Stories.”
• The JEWISH WOMEN'S ARCHIVE has an opportunity for you to tell your story" "Story Aperture." Go to the webpage to learn about this initiative and download the app to tell your story. Each of our journeys is unique and sharing it with others can make a difference, especially sharing our journey with those who love and care for us.

It is also my privilege to share with you that I was at an event this past Wednesday night honoring the work of women in our Riverdale community. It was a first time event and what joy to have two of our own being singled out for honors. Our own Madeline Ritter was honored for her leadership of the Riverdale Choral Society and creating a chapter of Bend The Arc in Riverdale. Madeline is testament to the ways in which each of us is multi-faceted. Shira Silverman was also honored for her work in the community in bringing the Sunday Market to a new level of inclusion and relevance. The event was sponsored by The 4Bronx Project and Female Fight Club. In a room filled primarily with women, it was a potent reminder of what we can accomplish together and the importance of sharing our stories. 

So this Shabbat, share your story, listen to a woman’s story, remember a story of long ago told by a woman, or simply honor the women in your life for the work they do and have done in ways you find appropriate.