Dear John,

The last year has seen unprecedented and unrelenting attacks on refugees and asylum seekers in the United States and around the world and an alarming increase in anti-Semitic violence. Against this rising tide of hate, the Jewish community has stood strong in our commitment to welcome.

HIAS’ second annual National Refugee Shabbat will take place on March 20-21, 2020. I invite you to once again join thousands of individuals and hundreds of congregations to raise awareness, celebrate our advocacy efforts, and recognize the powerful work that has been done to welcome refugees and asylum seekers to our communities. 

Our Sukkot celebrations this week help us recognize our own fragility and remind us that, for so many, shelter remains impermanent. This holiday, express your commitment to standing with today’s refugees and asylum seekers by registering for National Refugee Shabbat 5780/2020.

Moadim l’simcha – may this be a season of joy for all,