April 2024 Newsletter

EMMA GOLDBLATT

April was a remarkable month for animal advocacy! From engaging Passover discussions to crafting vegan versions of Shabbat classics, it ignited meaningful conversations about conscious consumption and the significance of spreading empathy.

Explore deeper involvement in our community by completing a survey, joining as a member, or supporting one of our numerous campaigns. Also, don’t miss out on the opportunity to apply for our Campus Fellowship and Synagogue Vegan Challenge! Learn more about how to apply by reading this blog. Let’s unite to cultivate positive change together! 💚

Synagogue Vegan Challenge Event Spotlight:

Annual Matzah Bake at Toronto Partnership Minyan

“Over 100 People came and baked matzah in the park! It was a collaborative event between Makom, TPM, PJ Library and MNJCC!. After baking matzah in an outdoor oven, we enjoyed it, with vegan dips.”

Couple’s Cohort Shabbat Dinner at BASE NYC

“We spent time discussing how each couple’s Jewish rituals develop, focusing on kashrut. We explored eco-kashrut, kashrut values, and how kashrut can be an opportunity to connect with God, the earth, each other, and community. It was a wonderful and enlightening evening of conversation around dietary habits and values!”

Kiddush Classics Reimagined at Adat Shalom

“About 200 people attended services this Shabbat. Everyone enjoyed the food. We showed how easy it is to swap out the traditional salad options (tuna and egg) for vegan alternatives that many members of the synagogue could enjoy. Some members who are vegan mentioned how they haven’t been able to enjoy a kiddush lunch in years so it was great to be able to have an option that was comfortable for everyone. Many of the volunteers who help cook for the kiddush luncheons were intrigued and will hopefully start adding some of these recipes into the rotation.”

5784 Temple Beth Tikvah 1st Night Vegan Seder

“We had 91 persons in attendance ranging in age from 2-95 sharing in an earth focused, animal friendly Seder experience. I used the beautiful Haggadah by R. Ellen Bernstein z”l 

The Promise of the Land. 

Lots of teaching around the table with conversations ranging from why the change from traditional symbols to those that bring a more compassionate message; avocado in place of egg, beet in place of  shank bone, etc. to actions we can all take upon ourselves to bring forth a more peaceful world.

Our menu consisted of mock chopped liver, matzah ball soup, portobello mushroom flank steak, potato kugel, eggplant matza Mina, grilled asparagus , glazed carrots with berry matza crumble and coconut macaroons for dessert.  

All left happy, physically full and spiritually nourished.

Please enjoy the photos I snapped before candle-lighting.”


Get Involved

Applications for our 2024-2025 cohort of Shamayim Campus Fellows is now open! 🎒🐮💙

  • The Shamayim Campus Fellowship is a program that gives Jewish vegetarian and vegan college students the tools and support they need to educate their communities about animal advocacy. 
  • Go to bit.ly/shamayimcampusfellows to learn more and apply! 🎒🐮💙

Synagogue Vegan Challenge Cohort #8 2024- 2025: Applications are now open!


The State of the Jewish Vegan Movement with Rabbi Shmuly Yanklowitz


Jun 18, 2024 

Register here!


Watch the recording of our webinar which was a harmonious fusion of yoga and prayer, led by Jewish Vegan Yogi, Kim Siegel, PMP, E-RYT 500, as we honor the sacred bond between humans and animals in celebration of Passover. In this special gathering, inspired by the ancient Jewish tradition of the blessings of the animals, we invite you to partake in a gentle and inclusive yoga practice suitable for all levels.

Become a member and learn more here: Membership


Join us in taking a stand for compassion and sustainability. By pledging to choose fish as friends not food, we affirm our commitment to the well-being of all living beings, ourselves included. So, the next time you sit down to enjoy a meal, opt for a bagel with dairy-free spread & carrot lox, or indulge in a plant-based seafood dish. Let’s spread love—for the fish, for ourselves, and for the planet. Together, we can create a brighter, more compassionate future for all.

Learn more here


Help us to elevate our programs to more effectively advocate for animals! Take the survey here: http://bit.ly/shamayimsurvey


Stay Tuned: New Programming Coming Soon!

  • Exclusive Interviews
  • Holiday Cooking Demos
  • and more!

Make sure to join our mailing list so you don’t miss out on any programs!

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