Click here to read what the Havurah Climate Action Team has been talking about.

Watch a video of them and others at the Global Climate Strike here.

HCAT Breakout Group on Yom Kippur

Yom Kippur break’s engaging discussion about meaningful actions we can take to address the climate crises started in the traditional way of having a chevrutah, where people are studying in pairs and reading Jewish texts.

“The whole world of humans, animals, fish, and birds all depend on one another. All drink the earth’s water, breathe the earth’s air, and find food created on the earth. All share the same destiny — what happens to one happens to all.” — Tanna d’bei Eliahu (10^th century)

This is just one of several relevant quotes about taking care of our common home, embracing an ecological spirituality, and developing a justice. These texts, ranging from the 4th-21st century, showed us we have a long Jewish tradition of being reminded of the interconnection of humans and the environment, and the need to be good stewards of the natural world.

In small groups of 8-10 we shared our answers to “What gives you hope?” and “What actions are you already taking?” A common source of hope is the involvement of youth in the climate movement, both in Portland and worldwide. Individual actions ranged from driving electric cars or taking public transportation to using reusable “go boxes” at New Season’s deli, eating less meat, reducing use of disposable plastic silverware and cups, and installing solar panels or investing in community solar. It was agreed that political action is also needed such as: contacting your representatives, voting in elections, and making structural and corporate changes. Many of us are involved with community activities and organizations that are making a difference.

A troubling aspect for some of us is our air travel. We were encouraged to offset that carbon emission by contributing to the Oregon Youth Conservation Corp’s efforts to plant trees in Oregon.