Jewish Alliance for Law & Social Action » Sheila Decter

Interfaith Press Conference on Anti-Muslim Bigotry

Sheila Decter — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 14:58:01 +0000

Today, at the statute of Quaker religious leader in front of State House, 1 p.m.

Interfaith leaders will once again ask for full religious tolerance and an end to the religious discord that has characterized these last few months.

Massachusetts Debate tonight – Governor’s Race

Sheila Decter — Tue, 07 Sep 2010 14:53:24 +0000

7 p.m. WBZ. Listen to candidates for Massachusetts Governor’s Race

Primary next Tuesday, September 14th.

Many congressional reps, and state representative and senatorial races have opposing primary candidates.

Wainwright A Model for Corporate Social Responsibility

Sheila Decter — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 19:38:17 +0000

Join us to thank Bob Glassman and Wainwright Bank as they explore a merger with Eastern Bank

Special JALSA Event

: Tuesday, October 5 at Goulston & Storrs, Boston, 5-7 p.m.

Learn More

Concern for Increased Rhetoric and Violence Against Muslim Communities in US.

Sheila Decter — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 14:41:18 +0000

JALSA is concerned about the continuing escalation of rhetoric and violence against Muslim centers of worship around the country. Arson, physical attacks, and graffiti cannot be explained by concerns about the feelings of families of Ground Zero victims. Right wing commentators and political activists are drumming up the level of rhetoric for their own ends. This is not in keeping with American traditions of freedom of religious worship, a constitutional liberty that has provided the Jewish community great protection.

Listen to report by Rachel Maddow.

Ballot Issue Puts Affordable Housing at Risk

Sheila Decter — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 12:11:38 +0000

Ballot Question #2 puts affordable housing at risk in Massachusetts.

40B Statute is essential at protecting the building of affordable housing in all communities. This proposed ballot initiative would repeal this affordable housing law, the single most effective tool in creating affordable housing in the state. This law allows the development of affordable housing in communities that really need it, often providing the only new development for housing for seniors, teachers, and other municipal workers who could not otherwise live in those communities. JALSA is part of a large coalition working to save that statute.

An Interfaith Petition is now available for leaders of different faith communities. We stand together against efforts to repeal the Massachusetts Affordable Housing Law, a critical means of expanding affordable housing opportunities for thousands of people who need it.

Housing is a basic human need. The Massachusetts Affordable Housing Law, also known as Chapter 40B, has created affordable homes for tens of thousands of Massachusetts residents. Seniors, working families, veterans, and people with disabilities are just a few examples of people who need more affordable options to own or rent a home. Without this law, fewer people will be able to attain an affordable home to serve as a foundation for human dignity, health and well-being.

Social justice and the dignity of all persons are fundamental values for communities of faith and they call us to speak out: All people should have the opportunity to live in affordable, safe housing. We stand in solidarity to protect the Massachusetts Affordable Housing Law and invite members of all faiths to join us and Vote ‘No’ against repealing this critical law on Question Two in November.

Interfaith Leaders: You may sign onto the interfaith letter by going directly to the website: http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/protectaffordablehousing/

General Volunteer Support: You may volunteer to help work on this campaign by signing up on the Protect Affordable Housing website directly or calling the JALSA office, 617-227-3000.