Social Action/ Social Justice

1973: Beth El members organized Action for Soviet Jewry, which became an international leader in the battle to help Jews escape from the former Soviet Union. In 1987, when Jews were allowed to emigrate, Beth El helped Russian families settle in the Boston area.

1978: Beth El members formed a Tzedakah Collective, still operating and open to anyone who wishes to pool their individual/family charity dollars and join in a thoughtful consideration of where to make gifts.

1979: Beth El members helped resettle Vietnamese Boat People.

1987: Beth El adopted a resolution declaring the congregation a sanctuary for Central Americans in danger of deportation at the risk of their lives.

2001: Following a congregational trip to Cuba, Beth El established a sister-community relationship with the Jewish community in the town of Ceinfuegos, and continues to provide funds, educational materials, Judaica, medicines, and various forms of assistance to Jews there. In 2005, thanks to donations and grants from the Puffin Foundation, Beth El initiated “Lifestories,” which enables Jewish/interfaith Cuban youths to tell their own multi-media stories. In 2009, Rebeca Langus Rodriguez, leader of the Cienfegos community, visited greater Boston and Washington DC. During her stay with us, she was called to the Torah at Beth El and became a bat mitzvah.

In November 2004, Beth El launched the Metrowest Free Medical Program for people of all religions and nationalities who lack access to health insurance. Congregant Dr. Paul Hart directs the program with help from other members who are physicians, nurses, social workers, and lay volunteers. Every Tuesday evening, people come seeking primary care, treatment for acute and chronic illness, physical exams, and immunizations. Volunteers also provide information about social services, free medications, and Spanish and Portuguese interpretation. Dr. David Bechtel now serves as the Medical Director of the program, which provides care for approximately 1,500 low-income uninsured and underinsured clients each year.

In 2006, the Metrowest Free Medical Program was awarded the Irving J. Fain Social Action Award by the Religious Action Center of the Union for Reform Judaism for exemplary work in the area of Social Justice. In 2011, the program was recognized with the Nancy King Award for elimination of racial and ethnic disparities in health care.