Shir Hadash in the World
our ADVOCACY
We're passionate about changing the world through individual and communal acts of gemilut chasadim (loving kindness), tikkun olam (repairing the world), and shomrei adamah (guarding the earth). To paraphrase Pirkei Avot, you are not required to complete the work of tikkun olam (repairing the world), but neither are you free to desist from it.
TZEDEK NEWSLETTER
Shir Hadash is excited to launch Tzedek, a monthly newsletter highlighting social justice and social action opportunities in our greater community.
Hear from Rabbi Rafi on the vision for Tzedek.
"In hopes of building community within Shir Hadash — and throughout the South Bay — the monthly Tzedek newsletter features a selection of social action and social justice opportunities in the Bay Area. I invite you to peruse through and see some of the exciting things going on in our region and, if an event catches your eyes, invite a fellow Shir Hadash-nik to join you in your pursuit of tikkun olam - the Jewish responsibility to repair the world."
Sign up below to receive Tzedek on a monthly basis. If you have questions about Tzedek, please email Cayla@shirhadash.org.
SUSTAINABILITY AT SHIR HADASH
At Shir Hadash, social responsibility, tikkun olam and caring for the earth has long been part of who we are. Our community believes sustainability is both a Jewish and a moral responsibility.
Here’s a snapshot of what we’ve accomplished together:
- Solar Power Leadership: First synagogue in California to install panels (2002) and expanded systems in 2018 and 2025—now covering all our electricity needs.
- National Climate Commitment: Early member of the Jewish Climate Leadership Coalition (2022).
- Energy & Efficiency Upgrades: Plans underway for electric heat pumps, LED lighting, and gas-to-electric appliance replacements.
- Water Wise: Low-flow plumbing, smart irrigation, and more native, drought-tolerant plants.
- Sustainable Eating: “Vegetarian first” meals, smaller meat portions, and reduced food waste at community events.
- Values-Based Investing: Eliminated fossil fuel holdings from our investment portfolio.
- Education & Action: Workshops on composting, plastic reduction, water conservation, and more through our Green Team.