Jews for Racial and Economic Justice, is a ten year old Jewish activist organization, who's primary goal is to develop alliances between Jews and other communities within New York City. By making alliances with labor organizations, the African American, Asian American, and Latin communities, JFREJ attempts to create a more nurturing environment within which all people can live.

The organization itself is a very diverse group of individuals ranging in age, sexual orientation, and religious standings Jews for Racial and Economic Justice notes the importance of an alliance between Jews and Blacks because of the forms of persecution both groups have been forced to endure. JFREJ strengthens the bond between Jews and African Americans by participating in active in social change, rather than passive reform.

For example, last year, 125 members of JFREJ, including 15 Rabbis, were arrested after the Amabdu Diallo incident. Even though this was an African American led campaign, the JFREJ organization felt that it was necessary to portray to the media and the public, that even though the Diallo incident did not directly affect the Jewish community, it is important for everyone to take a stand.

Therefore, instead of only blacks complaining about the situation the JFREJ organization was able to convey an attitude that everyone has a stake in such happenings and everyone should speak out against similar injustices. When Jews for Racial and Economic Justice began in 1990, there were very few Jewish groups in New York City committed to issues affecting working people and people of color.

Today, however, JFREJ has built strong relationships with progressive Jews and a variety of community organizations. What makes JFREJ unique from other Jewish organizations is that when they take a different prospective in how they evaluate issues. JFREJ does not only ponder whether a particular issue is good for Jews alone, but whether it is beneficial for the entire city . While other Jewish groups feel comfortable dealing solely with religious Jews, JFREJ recognizes that there are many nonreligious Jews that want to help in doing something progressive and Jewish.

There are also a number of gay and lesbian leaders, which they feel is very important. Today there are over 900 members and 5,000 supporters, through which they spread the progressive Jewish voice. Jews for Racial and Economic Justice, is committed to doing outreach with youth; they encourage young leaders to take a stand by designing and leading projects and educational events. One of their major accomplishments and contributions to the community has been done by bringing together Jewish and African American high school students of public schools in Brooklyn.

Not only were the students able to overcome their differences in class, race, and neighborhood, but they were able to create an amazing show that brought over 500 viewers. The show exemplified the ways in which kids from different backgrounds can come together and create something constructive and inspiring. There are many ways in which one can become involved in Jews for Racial and Economic Justices. To learn more about the organization visit www.jfrej.org or reach them at (212) 647-8966.