JDAIM

 JDAIM

    February is JDAIM (Jewish Disability Awareness Inclusion Month). 


    I fit squarely in the target group for this month as a Jew with a disability. Of course it's nice to think that everyone should want to be kind to people with disabilities in February or every other month and regardless of their faith.

    In Judaism, the Hebrew phrase" B'tzelem Elohim" comes from the Torah. In Genesis 1:27 it is explained that all people are created in God's image. If everyone is created in God's image, then we each should be treated with dignity and respect regardless of our differences. 

    There are all types of disabilities and all types of accommodations that synagogues can offer those who come to worship that carry through the teaching of B'tzelem Elohim. Wheelchair accessibility is obvious. It would probably be easy to find someone to sign the service in ASL for deaf congregants. For those with vision challenges, large print siddurs would be helpful (or with braille for the blind). It would also be easy to offer a quieter space for those who prefer not to be in crowds or overstimulated. Every synagogue should consider implementing these changes and others.



    Hopefully synagogues will be mindful to welcome all to practice their faith in the spirit of B'tzelem Elohim during JDAIM and throughout the calendar year.

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