The January 24 discussion will be at Mount Zion from 6:15-7:45 p.m. Facilitator: Diana Dean
The January 28 discussion will be at Mount Zion from 12:30 – 2:00 p.m. Facilitator: Jessica Griffith
The Thursday, February 8 discussion will be at Roseville Public Library, Board Room 2nd Floor from 7:00-8:30 p.m. Facilitator: Michael Kuhne
Mount Zion is now a Union of Reform Judaism Immigrant Justice Congregation. This means that we will be supporting immigrant justice in a multitude of ways. Many of us are interested in learning more about the challenges faced by immigrants, documented as well as undocumented. In response, Rabbi Spilker and the Tzedek committee have copies of the book, Enrique’s Journey, available to congregants interested in joining in a conversation on immigration.
This book, by journalist Sonia Nazario, offers an intimate and detailed account of the efforts of a young boy who is determined to travel from Honduras to the United States in search of his mother. Through Enrique’ tribulations, readers gain insight into the motivations and challenges of immigrants in today’s world.
To receive a free copy of the book, we ask that you commit to attending one of three book discussions during January. Please send an e-mail to Julie Beckman expressing interest. These conversations are an excellent way to learn and to meet with others who want to work for greater justice for our immigrant neighbors.
Goals
- to foster conversation among the congregants reading the book
- to engender a sympathetic and compassionate perspective with the hope that it will lead to constructive action
- to develop a deeper knowledge of the global context that drives migrants to seek a safe home and a livable wage
1. The Pew Hispanic Center estimates that in 2012 there were more than 11 million unauthorized immigrants in the United States. Are you aware of these immigrants in your community? Had you considered their paths before reading this book? Do you know how and when your own family came to the United States?
2. During Enrique’s travels, acts of kindness come from both likely and unlikely places. Which particularly stood out to you?
3. Some immigration observers say the United States has a “broken immigration system.” What do you know about our current policies on immigration? As Jews, we are reminded to love the stranger among us “When a stranger sojourns with you in your land, you shall do him no wrong. The stranger who sojourns with you shall be to you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself for you were strangers in the land of Egypt” (Leviticus 19:33). What immigration policies do you think would best reflect these Jewish values?
4. Immigrants often come to the United States with hope for a better life. What do you think defines a “better life”? What chance do Enrique’s children have for one?
5. We do not hear much in our news about what these migrants are running from. What conditions at home make risking this horrific journey the better option for them? As global citizens, how should we address these inequities?
6. What other questions did the book raise for you?
