Jewish Values in Action: Repro Shabbat

February 2024

By Nicole Sidman

On Friday, Feb. 9, Temple Beth El will join synagogues nationwide in observing Repro Shabbat. Initiated by the National Council of Jewish Women in 2021, this annual event celebrates the Jewish value of reproductive freedom. Repro Shabbat aligns with Parashat Mishpatim, the Torah portion containing verses foundational to Judaism’s stance on reproductive health, rights, and justice.

Rabbi Lexi Erdheim emphasizes the event’s significance: “Centering a Shabbat experience around reproductive rights and justice affirms that every human being, created b’tzelem Elohim, in the image of God, has a sacred right to control their own bodies, lives, and futures.”

Repro Shabbat has seen a significant increase in observance among synagogues and Jewish communities, growing four-fold since its inception. This year, Temple Beth El is proud to partner with the Girls Just Want to Have Choices TriBE, co-led by Crissa Klein and Anik Harrison. Klein shares her connection:

“From a young age, my mother taught me the importance of championing women’s rights, including healthcare access. Informed decisions about our bodies and medical choices, deeply rooted in Jewish teachings, should be accessible to all. PostDobbs decision, our TriBE, in collaboration with Temple Beth El, is committed to advocating for reproductive rights as a core part of our religion.”

The evening will begin with a worship service led by the Girls Just Wanna Have Choices TriBE, followed by an oneg and a screening of “Under G-d,” an official selection of the 2023 Sundance Film Festival. This documentary examines the national Jewish response to the overturning of Roe v. Wade and explores religious freedom’s role in reproductive justice.

We invite you to join this crucial conversation and film screening. To register, please visit www.bit.ly/reproshabbat23.