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-- Snapshots -- Past Newsletters -- Society
By Laws
The Ethical Culture Society of Essex County
516 Prospect Street, Maplewood, New Jersey 07040 Phone 973-763-1905 Email: ecsec.nj@gmail.com
Board of Trustees: Elaine Durbach, President; Jacqueline Herships, Vice-President; Diane Beeny; Tom Cunningham; Jill Farrer;
William Graves; Lisa Novemsky; Andy Weinbergerr, Terri Suess.
Leader Emeriti: Martha Gallahue and Jim White
Liz Cunningham, Office Manager
Updated 11-20-24Sunday Morning Program
Marshall Raking Leaves
Join us for the Final Book Discussion of
The 1619 Project with Jim White
Monday, December 16, 2024
By Zoom
Take Action:
Social Action Committee's
Ideas for THINGS TO DO
News About Members, Friends, and Our Speakers:
-- Anisa Mehdi's movie
-- Read Birgit's Blog about
Marshall. There's Music.-- Comunity Coalition on Race Announces
Retirement of Audrey Rowe
Jim White and Eileen Karlson are appearing in.....
Join our email list!
Write to: ecsec.nj@gmail.com
Welcome to the Ethical Culture Society of Essex County, New Jersey, meeting on land previously appropriated from the Lenni Lenape people. Ethical Culture is a Humanist Religion, part of the American Ethical Union. We meet in person and by Zoom on Sunday mornings from September through June. Come visit us soon!
Schedule Changes: 1619 Discussion postponed till 11-18-24
Coming Up Fall 2024
Recent Programs 2024
2023-24 Programs
2022-2023 Programs
Social Action Committee: Minutes and More
Social Action Committee Resources Page
Curremt Sunday Morning Program
View this email in your browser
Dr. Carolyn Parker: See the Light, Be the Light, Share the Light
This is a Zoom Only event. You must register to get the Zoom link. The registration link is below.
Light, in reality and as a metaphor, holds a central position in our lives. What light do we see in Ethical Culture? How do we incorporate it into our lives? What does this even mean in the aftermath of a historic election that has divided families and communities across the nation? In a time of (metaphorical) darkness, Ethical Culture can be a beacon, calling us together, lighting our way forward.
Dr. Carolyn A. Parker is an Ethical Culturist, coming late to the community but long holding the beliefs and values that led her to the Ethical Society of Austin and (now) the New York Society for Ethical Culture. She is an activist, with experience in advocacy at local, state, and national levels. Her education gave her a background in the liberal arts and social sciences, supporting her work in teaching, writing, and organizational management with an international perspective. Dr. Parker is currently the ESOA representative to the AEU Board and Secretary of the National Ethical Service. She writes two blogs: Happy(Ethical)Human and Biblioblog for Ethical Culture.
Link to register for Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_OovjBYp5QRut5XyVPjOiVw
Coming Up: Sunday, Dec. 1, 11am - Hikaru Hayakawa - Climate Cardinals, and the campaign to make environmental information available around the world.
Tech Help
Since the Pandemic, we've all had to adjust to new technology, like Zoom meetings and virtual platforms, to help us stay connected. We are offering tech help to any members who need assistance in learning how to use these online programs in order to participate in Ethical events and platforms. Please let us know if you would like tech support and we'll connect you with someone who can help. Send an email with a request to ecsec.nj@gmail.com.
Ongoing Collections
Food Bank- Please remember to bring canned or boxed food items for the food pantry box in our front hall. Donations go to the New Jersey Food Bank. (Please be careful not to donate expired items, which could cause adverse effects.)
Please note: we are no longer collecting batteries or children’s books.
Volunteer Opportunities
We need help! Please call the office if you can aid with any of these endeavors:
- Occasionally provide local transportation to people who cannot get to events
- Be part of a caring committee to identify/contact those who are ill or ailing
- Lend your expertise to research/grant applications
516 Prospect St., Maplewood, NJ 07040
973.763.1905 essexethical.orgNews About Members and Speakers
Anisa Mehdi Has Produced a New Movie She Spoke to Us
about: (See the promos here and here).
Sunday Morning Programs Coming Up!
November 10 Open discussion for Post Electon (Bill Graves has agreed to run it)
November 17 Amanda Guttierez Her Seton Hall thesis: Forced (selective) sterilization - Rescheduled from Oct. 13
Sunday, Nov. 24, 11am - TBS
Sunday, Dec. 1, 11am - Hikaru Hayakawa on fostering environmental literacy around the world.
Social Action Committee
Next MeetingNext Social Action Committee Meeting
Friday, December 6, 2024 at 5:00 pm.By Zoom
FOLK FRIDAY
Second Fridays
December 13, 2024
Ethical Culture Society
516 Prospect St
Maplewood, NJ 07040
7:00 PM to 8:30 PM
lnovemsky@comcast.net 973 763-8293
bring acoustic string and rhythm instruments
join in playing, singing, or listening with us
bring some refreshments to share
Everyone is invited!
Sing along and jam!
Goals 2 Groups
With Jackie HershipsSecond Saturdays at 2:00 p.m.
For more information, click here.
View this email in your browser
Doing It
Get unstuck in a friendly atmosphere.Join our Doing It Workshop with Jacqueline Herships
to Clarify your Vision - Develop your Goals - Take the next steps.
Explore where you are now - what’s next - what you would love to be, do, have.
Walk-ins are welcome - Call or email first if possible, but not necessary.
Bring a yearning, a hunch, a wish, a goal, even an idea.
Sessions are $10 per (and more if you are able :-)
At the Ethical Culture Society of Essex County
516 Prospect Street, corner Parker, Maplewood.Workshops are ongoing – you can join at any time, call to confirm.
All donations go to Ethical Culture Society of Essex County, a 105c nonprofit organization.
Jacqueline has a long history helping her clients to facilitate connections and develop visibility. Her fields of involvement are broad and include technology, the environment, the green arena, community and urban redevelopment, journalism / lifestyle, the arts, and business development.
She has been a contributing writer for the NJ Star-Ledger. She was the co-founder of Professionals in Media, the publicist and board member of the International Furnishings and Design Association; she is an advisor to the South Orange Historical and Preservation Society, a member of the Senior Citizen Advisory Committee to the Township of South Orange and on the board of The Ethical Culture Society of Essex County.
Jacqueline is certified in the Riesenberg Method for articulating vision, solving problems and setting goals.
Ms. Herships works remotely, in person, and with groups.
She can be reached by phone or email at 973-763-7555 or jackieherships@gmail.com
Recent Programs 2024
.Ongoing Book Discussion of 1619
Led by Jim White
More information here.
Snap Shots of Recent Events
Halloween at 516 Prospect Street: Gabe and Elaine celebrating as Marshall would have enjoyed.
11-3-24 Student Panel
Vijya Campagne joined the Society: from 5-19-24 annual meeting
.
For actions you can take now,
see our Social Action Resources page.
Recent Programs
Amanda Guttierez: A Personal Insight on Eugenic Practices
This is a hybrid event: in person at the Ethical Culture Society and also via Zoom. The Zoom link is below.
Drawing on her own family's experience with the California Eugenics Program, which forcibly sterilized her great-grandmother after immigrating from Mexico, Amanda's research, "Rethinking the Legacy of Eugenic Practices: How Local Communities Can Find Healing When Adequate Government Intervention Falls Short" explores the historical and lasting impacts of eugenic sterilization practices in the United States, particularly focusing on California and Puerto Rico.
This thesis examines how these practices, which disproportionately targeted marginalized communities, have left behind a legacy of medical mistrust and generational trauma. By applying the "imperial boomerang effect framework," this thesis demonstrates how colonial tactics of oppression were refined abroad and then used domestically.
This work proposes using transitional justice mechanisms such as education, empowerment through safe spaces, and commemoration to help affected communities find healing without relying solely on government intervention.
Amanda Gutierrez holds a Master of Arts in Diplomacy and International Relations from Seton Hall University, with a concentration in Global Negotiations and Conflict Management and a regional focus on Latin America and the Caribbean. As a first-generation college graduate, Amanda's research and advocacy are driven by her connection to the systemic barriers marginalized communities face. She has extensive experience in communications, program management, and advocacy, working with organizations such as the U.S. House of Representatives, Religions for Peace, and LatinoJustice. Amanda is passionate about using her skills to promote equity and justice, particularly in reproductive rights.
elaine durbach is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Sunday, Oct 13 platform
Time: Oct 13, 2024 11:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89214897085
Meeting ID: 892 1489 7085
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Meeting ID: 892 1489 7085
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kmXhIoZeT
View this email in your browser
Taking Stock of the Post-Election SituationThis is a hybrid event: in person at the Ethical Culture Society and also via Zoom. The Zoom link is below.
After the storms of the election campaign, we will gather to share our impressions, and seek clarity on what lies ahead and how best to handle it. Longtime ECS member Bill Graves will lead the discussion.
elaine durbach is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Sunday Platform, Nov 10. 2024
Time: Nov 10, 2024 11:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86759003033
Meeting ID: 867 5900 3033
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Meeting ID: 867 5900 3033
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Coming Up: Friday, Nov. 8, 7:30pm - Folk Friday
Sunday, Nov. 17, 11am - Amanda Guttierez - Rescheduled from Oct. 13
Sunday, Nov. 24, 11am - TBS
Sunday, Dec. 1, 11am - Hikaru Hayakawa on fostering environmental literacy around the world.
High Schooler's Panel: The World Through Young EyesThis is a hybrid event: in person at the Ethical Culture Society and also via Zoom. The Zoom link is below.
A group of high schoolers, led by Hannah, granddaughter of our beloved member Zia Durrani, will share their perspective on the challenges facing them - socially, academically, and in the wider world.
elaine durbach is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Sunday platform Nov 3
Time: Nov 3, 2024 11:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83412498668
Meeting ID: 834 1249 8668
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Meeting ID: 834 1249 8668
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/keusEnNErK
Coming Up: Friday, Nov. 8, 7:30pm - Folk Friday
Sunday, Nov. 10, 11am - Post-Election Colloquy -Member-led colloquy on the post-Election situation. Looking, as ever and regardless of the outcome, to bring out the best in our world and ourselves.
Sunday, Nov. 17, 11am - Amanda Guttierez - Rescheduled from Oct. 13
Tech Help
Since the Pandemic, we've all had to adjust to new technology, like Zoom meetings and virtual platforms, to help us stay connected. We are offering tech help to any members who need assistance in learning how to use these online programs in order to participate in Ethical events and platforms. Please let us know if you would like tech support and we'll connect you with someone who can help. Send an email with a request to ecsec.nj@gmail.com.
Ongoing Collections
Food Bank- Please remember to bring canned or boxed food items for the food pantry box in our front hall. Donations go to the New Jersey Food Bank. (Please be careful not to donate expired items, which could cause adverse effects.)
Please note: we are no longer collecting batteries or children’s books.
Volunteer Opportunities
We need help! Please call the office if you can aid with any of these endeavors:
- Occasionally provide local transportation to people who cannot get to events
- Be part of a caring committee to identify/contact those who are ill or ailing
- Lend your expertise to research/grant applications
516 Prospect St., Maplewood, NJ 07040
973.763.1905 essexethical.org
Sunday, October 27, 2024
11:00 AM
Jean Vitrano
Mindfulness Teacher
Jean Vitrano, Mindfulness Teacher, interviewed by Meredith Sue Willis
.Jean Vitrano integrates her 25+ years of training in mindfulness practices, meditation, movement, and body therapies to assist individuals in living with greater awareness, ease, and joy. Jean facilitates ongoing meditation and mindfulness groups, classes, and workshops at her Maplewood Studio and online. With an emphasis on discovering one's own insight, Jean invites curiosity, kindness, and compassion in everyone who seeks to live a mindful life. Understanding that we all discover our inner wisdom, in our own time, she creates safe communities for people to explore, listen, and share. Jean will be holding a Beginning Meditation Series this November.
Jean studied with the late Buddhist Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh and has been influenced by the teachings of Tara Brach, Sharon Salzberg, Pema Chodron, and the work of Eugene Gendlin (Focusing). Most recently, she has studied mindful communication and Nonviolent Communication with Oren Jay Sofer. Jean holds a BA from NYU and has had careers as a professional contemporary dancer and 20 years as a Licensed Massage Therapist. Jean is also a graduate of the Feldenkrais Method Training Program. Jean lives in New Jersey with her husband and teenage children.
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Sunday, October 20, 2024
In light of the passing of our long-time and beloved building caretaker, there will be an informal meeting at the Society at 11 AM on Sunday, October 20, 2024 to be with friends and share thoughts and feelings. After about half an hour of open sharing, we'll have an opportunity to talk about loss for those who wish to.
This is a hybrid event: in person at the Ethical Culture Society and also via Zoom. The Zoom link is below.
elaine durbach is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Sunday, Oct 20 platform
Time: Oct 20, 2024 11:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89214897085
Meeting ID: 892 1489 7085
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Meeting ID: 892 1489 7085
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kmXhIoZeT
11:00 a.m.
Amanda Guttierez: A Personal Insight on Eugenic Practices
This is a hybrid event: in person at the Ethical Culture Society and also via Zoom. The Zoom link is below.
Drawing on her own family's experience with the California Eugenics Program, which forcibly sterilized her great-grandmother after immigrating from Mexico, Amanda's research, "Rethinking the Legacy of Eugenic Practices: How Local Communities Can Find Healing When Adequate Government Intervention Falls Short" explores the historical and lasting impacts of eugenic sterilization practices in the United States, particularly focusing on California and Puerto Rico.
This thesis examines how these practices, which disproportionately targeted marginalized communities, have left behind a legacy of medical mistrust and generational trauma. By applying the "imperial boomerang effect framework," this thesis demonstrates how colonial tactics of oppression were refined abroad and then used domestically.
This work proposes using transitional justice mechanisms such as education, empowerment through safe spaces, and commemoration to help affected communities find healing without relying solely on government intervention.
Amanda Gutierrez holds a Master of Arts in Diplomacy and International Relations from Seton Hall University, with a concentration in Global Negotiations and Conflict Management and a regional focus on Latin America and the Caribbean. As a first-generation college graduate, Amanda's research and advocacy are driven by her connection to the systemic barriers marginalized communities face. She has extensive experience in communications, program management, and advocacy, working with organizations such as the U.S. House of Representatives, Religions for Peace, and LatinoJustice. Amanda is passionate about using her skills to promote equity and justice, particularly in reproductive rights.
elaine durbach is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Sunday, Oct 13 platform
Time: Oct 13, 2024 11:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89214897085
Meeting ID: 892 1489 7085
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• +1 507 473 4847 US
• +1 564 217 2000 US
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• +1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)
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• +1 253 205 0468 US
• +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)
• +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
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Meeting ID: 892 1489 7085
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kmXhIoZeT
View this email in your browser
Calvin Chatlos: The Power of Worth, Dignity and a Spiritual Attitude
This is a hybrid event: in person at the Ethical Culture Society and also via Zoom. The Zoom link is below.
Understanding and operationalizing the experience of worth and dignity is the key to opening a genuine spiritual core that we are beginning to understand through neuroscience.
This platform will describe a transformational power that opens when we meaningfully commit to the worth and dignity of every person (including ourself), which is the spiritual attitude in life. This platform will be an overview of the philosophy, meaning and application of Being Ethical Culture.
Dr. Chatlos is a Professor of Psychiatry at Rutgers-RWJ Medical School, specializing in adult, child & adolescent, and addiction psychiatry. His introduction to Ethical Culture in college led to his exploration of how to practically empower worth and dignity, eventually leading him to explore faith experience and spirituality. Personal and familial challenges with psychosis, panic attacks, bipolar disorder, and major depressive disorder led his personal journey to understand spiritual experiences with mystical characteristics including states of bliss and discovering personal purpose. Recently, he conducted a groundbreaking study demonstrating the intentional promotion of spiritual experiences/awakening in a short-term psychotherapeutic intervention. Dr. Chatlos is recognized as a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association and a Distinguished Fellow of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.
Topic: Sunday Oct 6 platform
Time: Oct 6, 2024 11:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84414067067
Meeting ID: 844 1406 7067
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Meeting ID: 844 1406 7067
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kyC7H8ncK
Coming Up: Friday, Oct. 11, 7:30pm - Folk Friday
Saturday, Oct. 12, 2pm - Doing It Workshop with Jacqueline Herships
Sunday, Oct. 13, 11am - Amanda Gutierrez, a recent Seton Hall graduate, shares her thesis, discussing "Involuntary Sterilization - A Family's Tragic History."
Sunday, Oct 20, 11am - Colloquy led by members of the Ethical Living Committee: "If I Knew Then What I Know Now - Learning from our life experience".
Tech Help
Since the Pandemic, we've all had to adjust to new technology, like Zoom meetings and virtual platforms, to help us stay connected. We are offering tech help to any members who need assistance in learning how to use these online programs in order to participate in Ethical events and platforms. Please let us know if you would like tech support and we'll connect you with someone who can help. Send an email with a request to ecsec.nj@gmail.com.
Ongoing Collections
Food Bank- Please remember to bring canned or boxed food items for the food pantry box in our front hall. Donations go to the New Jersey Food Bank. (Please be careful not to donate expired items, which could cause adverse effects.)
Please note: we are no longer collecting batteries or children’s books.
Volunteer Opportunities
We need help! Please call the office if you can aid with any of these endeavors:
- Occasionally provide local transportation to people who cannot get to events
- Be part of a caring committee to identify/contact those who are ill or ailing
- Lend your expertise to research/grant applications
516 Prospect St., Maplewood, NJ 07040
973.763.1905 essexethical.org
View this email in your browser
AEU All-Society Platform: Building an Intergenerational Movement for Climate Justice
This is a Zoom event. Please note: participants must register in advance.Click Here to Register & Access Zoom Link: Register Now
As Climate Week comes to a close, a panel convenes to look at the unique intergenerational nature of the Climate Justice Movement. Humans of all ages are teaming up to meet the ethical imperative of Climate Justice and to grow this movement. This panel will explore the intergenerational modes and methods that youth and elders have employed, in connecting across their generational divides for this global movement.Dialogue will aim to reveal some of the struggles, frustrations, joys and learnings from this cross generational collaboration. While different generations may be coming from different points of reference, different inspirational motivation, and different stylistic tendencies, how are they implementing solidarity, and guiding themselves modalities of curious and compassionate interactivity and care, with a common mission? In climate justice circles, this summer has been “the summer of heat.” How are they each navigating the ethical dilemmas they confront in the world through this movement?
Panelists represent Third Act and Fridays For Future (two organizations that Ethical NYC partners with, to support this Climate Justice Movement), as well as No Brooklyn Pipeline, and Climate Families.
After the platform, there will be zoom break out groups for the audience to gather in small discussion groups, and look at how your communities foster intergenerational connection and collaboration, and also how your communities approach the global ethical imperative of climate justice involvement.
Panelists moderated by AEU President and Science Researcher Khandra Sears include: Helen Mancini (high school ~ Fridays for Future), Adérìnsọ́lá Marian Babawale (college ~ Fridays for Future Alum, No Brooklyn Pipeline), Pat Almonrode (Third Act), Eliza Clark (Climate Families), and Monica Weiss (Third Act).
This forum is open to all humans, so we ask all interested people to amplify it on social media platforms. All Ethical Societies are encouraged to publicize this event to their communities, and even host watch parties if possible.
Panelists:
Helen Mancini is a senior at Stuyvesant High School and a climate and social justice organizer with Fridays For Future NYC where she has planned four global school strikes and many local rallies. She was also a speaker and lead organizer for the 2023 March To End Fossil Fuels which mobilized 75,000 people.
Adérìnsọ́lá Marian Babawale (She/Her/Hers) is a 22-year-old Abolitionist & college student majoring in Global environmental studies liberal arts. She is a poet, sustainable fashionista and artist who also considers herself a steward of the land and a solution based organizer, advocating for Eco & housing justice as well as food sovereignty. Ade’s climate activism has included involvement with FFF and the No Brooklyn Pipeline Movement and she has given speeches and taught climate songs at climate rallies and marches.
Pat Almonrode is an attorney and a longtime climate activist. He has worked with 350NYC and other local and national groups, and is currently co-facilitator of Third Act NYC, as well as Third Act Lawyers. Pat has been particularly interested in the intersection of law and climate advocacy, and in the role of the faith community in the climate movement. He was instrumental in organizing faith participation in the 2014 Climate March that brought more than 350,000 people to the streets of NYC, and more recently has been involved in the elders’ actions that have been part of “The Summer of Heat,” a months-long series of protests targeting Citigroup, the world’s largest financer of new fossil-fuel infrastructure projects. He lives on the Upper West Side with his wife, Susan Gargiulo, and is active in local Democratic politics.
Eliza Clark is from New York City and lives in Manhattan with her husband and three daughters. She was inspired to take an active part in the climate movement by the example of her teenage daughter Helen Mancini who is a lead organizer with Fridays for Future NYC. Her background is in education and academia. She has a PhD from Harvard University in American Studies and her areas of research include the 19th century women’s movement and the intersection of social and political movements with family life. She has taught history and writing at both the college and high school levels; she has also spent many years as a primary parent and caregiver. She joined Climate Families NYC in 2022 and now serves as one of its volunteer Co-Chairs. She regularly participates in climate actions with her 6-year-old who has befriended many other kids in the group. She and Helen wrote about the urgent need for parents to get involved in climate activism in Teen Vogue.
Monica Weiss is a long time Ethical Culture member, retired educator and climate activist. Since retiring from teaching she has trained as a Climate Reality Leader, completed the Project Drawdown Workshop, and is on the 350NYC Steering Committee and the Third Act NYC Coordinating Committee. Committed to empowering youth, Monica has focused much of her activism on creating welcoming spaces for many youth groups to meet and organize at New York Society for Ethical Culture including Fridays For Future, since 2019.Panel Moderator: Khandra Sears
Khandra Sears is the American Ethical Union’s Board President. Khandra’s relationship with Ethical Culture began as she pursued an undergraduate degree in microbiology and began to question what faith and the Bible meant to her. As she moved to Baltimore to earn a PhD in Microbiology at the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM), she started to attend Baltimore Ethical Society Platforms and went on to join them as a member. Currently, Khandra works at UMSOM as part of a research team that develops live oral vaccines primarily against non-typhoidal strains of Salmonella enterica but also against other enteric bacteria. Since gastroenteric infections are still a leading cause of illness and death in children in resource-limited regions, she takes pride in the fact that she is working to address this issue and ultimately improve human lives.
September 22, 2024
Social Action Committee
2024 Local Hero Michelle Bobrow.
.
.Michelle Bobrow has given years of leadership in areas that range from advocacy for abused and neglected children in Essex County, New Jersey to advocacy against eminent domain abuse, and work for open government and citizen participation in government. There is much much more: long service with the Miriam Sisterhood at Oheb Shalom Congregation; chairing the National Council of Jewish Women, NJ State Public Affairs Committee; serving on local and state association boards and teaching courses on parliamentary procedure and running effective meetings. In her work at the Essex County Election Board, she has overseen the polling sites in Maplewood as the Master Poll worker. We are especially grateful for her long years of involvement in the League of Women Voters as a Vice President of Voter Service for the League of Women Voters of New Jersey and as an officer of the Maplewood League of Women Voters since the 1970’s.
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Erika Erickson Malinoski: Thinking Nationally, Acting Locally -- How to Bring Change from the Grassroots Up
This is a hybrid event: in person at the Ethical Culture Society and also via Zoom. The Zoom link is below.
South Orange activist Erika Erickson Malinoski believes that action is the best antidote to the pre-election tension so many of us are feeling. She will lead us in an exploration of the real meaning of democracy and how tiny, everyday actions add up to a big difference.
A passionate advocate for democracy, Erika co-chairs SOMA Action’s Democracy Action Committee and is also a Trustee. She holds a Masters in Public Policy and Bachelors of Political Science from the University of Michigan. Prior to moving to South Orange in 2019, she taught high school, community college, and middle school math in California as well as serving a stint as a school administrator. She currently writes essays and science fiction in between juggling twin toddlers and a seven-year old. Her most recent publication is onestepleft.org, a "choose your own adventure" guide to electoral activism.
elaine durbach is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Sunday, Sept 15 Platform
Time: Sep 15, 2024 11:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82839618097
Meeting ID: 828 3961 8097
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Meeting ID: 828 3961 8097
Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kcbY6HYfJI
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Opening Platform:
Back to the Future
Looking back with appreciation for what has been achieved this past summer, and forward with hope and determination, we will launch our 2024-25 Ethical year. It promises to be a challenging time, with a greater than ever need for strong community.
Longtime member, Meredith Sue Willis, chair of our Social Action Committee, will lead the discussion, inviting suggestions, ideals, and even wishful thinking to light up the path ahead.
elaine durbach is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: ECS Sunday Platform Sep 8 2024
Time: Sep 8, 2024 11:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
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From April 7, 2024:
Moms Demand Action of Essex County
and Nancy Kislin
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We are a 501 (c) (3) Organization-- Contributions
are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law..
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The Ethical Culture Society of Essex County, a 501(c) (3) organization, is a member of the American Ethical Union (AEU), the smallest named religion in the United States. While we are united through our deep belief in living an ethical life in this world, and in our relation to the natural world, some members believe in a universal life force, others believe in a deity, others are non-theistic.
All are welcome at the Ethical Culture Society.
For over 150 years, Ethical Culture has been on the front lines for social reform and social service and has advocated for human cultural expression through music, art, dance, and theater.
Ethical Culture participated in the founding of the NAACP, the ACLU, Visiting Nurses, and much more. It helped lead the struggles for the eight hour day, an end to child labor, to establish public education, and the first American kindergartens. Today we study ethical analysis and action, work for peace and justice, for full and fair Immigration policies, to roll back climate change and to build a sustainable world.
We present artists, poets, musicians, dancers and dramatists to enrich lives.
Our motto is "Work to bring out the best in others, and thereby in ourselves.".
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An Appeal
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Dear Ethical Culture Members and Friends,
. Thank you for your commitment to the Ethical Culture Movement that strives to bring ethics into all walks of life by "acting so as to bring out the best in others, and thereby in ourselves" and by working in community to positively impact our personal lives, our communities, as well as ethics in business, politics, education, and health care. By being a Member or Friend of the Ethical Culture Society of Essex County, you make this ongoing journey of analysis, inquiry and action for ethics possible.
. As you know, our building at 516 Prospect Street, Maplewood, on the border of Maplewood and South Orange, has provided space for over 70 years for not only our Ethical Culture Sunday morning platform presentations, and our Family Sunday School Program, it has also hosted many important community programs and events including Chamber Music Workshops, AA Groups, Folk Fridays Music, The Human Faith Movement meetings, ethical summer study groups, personal goal setting and achievement workshops, philosophy groups, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. reading groups, as well as a variety of musical recitals, concerts and art exhibits.
The Building also hosts The South Orange Maplewood Coalition on Race offices and events, and has welcomed SOMA Adult School Classes. We have also contributed to the Interfaith Hospitality Network, the Community Food Bank, Community Coat Drives and NJ Peace Action. And over the years we have raised funds for schools in Afghanistan, supported reform movements to end police brutality, and have dedicated ourselves to racial and sexual equality, an end to ageism and to support Labor Movements.
The Ethical Culture Society of Essex County is also the world's first Peace Site, dedicated to finding pathways to Peace. For these and many other reasons having our building as a base for our activities has made the work of the Ethical Culture Society of Essex County possible. Together with our location and our dedicated and active members and friends, we have had positive impacts on our community, our county, state, nation and the world.
As you may have heard, we have large building expenses looming that require our stewardship. We are committed to taking care of one of our most valuable assets, our building. The roof will need replacement, and the exterior walls are desperately in need of maintenance. We also have had an immediate chimney repair required. In addition, our ramp, making the building accessible, has worn out and been removed, prompting research into replacement ramps or possibly a mechanical lift. Combined, these repairs are estimated to cost more than $100,000. This would more than deplete our modest savings, and remove our cushion on hand. It is important that we take action to raise funds now.
The Board has decided to embark on a Capital Campaign to raise funds to meet the costs of these building repairs and improvements. This will be a multi-pronged effort. As Phase One, we called on Board Members, Members last year to kick off the campaign. Phase Two of the campaign is this appeal to our Members and Friends, and Phase Three will be a series of fundraisers and grant requests, reaching out to the wider community for support.
Today, we are appealing to our Members and Friends to give generously to the Ethical Culture Society of Essex County 2023 Capital Campaign. If you have thought of leaving a bequest to the Society in your will, perhaps you would contribute now, as an alternative or in addition to your other plans.
Our first phase of the Capital Campaign has raised almost $20,000 in donations from our Ethical Culture Society of Essex County Board. We hope that with Member and Friends donations we can reach the halfway mark toward our $100,000 goal.
Please consider your own history with the Ethical Culture Society of Essex County and consider making a generous contribution to this capital campaign. Please send your donation now or write your pledge amount to me or Jeanine via email and we will assemble them by the end of February, 2023. We hope that pledges to the capital campaign will be donated via check to the office, by March 2023.
We will then know what we have raised internally, in the aggregate, and we will move forward to the wider community with our appeal. Planned, so far, is a spring on-line art auction, a grant request and a possible ad journal for a late spring event.
Thank you for your contributions to the Ethical Culture Society of Essex County over the years. We are honored to have worked alongside you and to have enjoyed your contributions to our community. As a Member or Friend, please carefully consider this appeal and give generously to bring our building back to good repair. We hope we can continue to offer a home for the next generation of those who will carry the banner of ethical study and action into the future.
Thank you.
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Ethical Culture Society of Essex County, Capital Campaign, Co-Chairs,
Terri Suess
Jeanine RoshPlease make donations payable to
Ethical Culture Society of Essex County
Include on the check "Capital Campaign 2023".
Send donations to
Ethical Culture Society of Essex County
516 Prospect St.
Maplewood, NJ 07040
Monthly Book Discussion Group on The 1619 Project
Led by Leader Jim White
Next Session:
Monday December 16, 2024
7:00 p.m. by Zoom
Chapters 17 & 18
Reading Schedule:
Dates and Chapters to Read:
9-18-23 Chapter 6 Capitalism
0-16-23 Chapter 1 Democracy
11-20 Chapter 2 Race (rescheduled)
2-18-23 Chapter 3 Sugar(from here, tentative dates, two chapters a month. Third Mondays)1-15-24 Chaps 4 & 5 Fear and Dispossession
2-19-24 Chaps 7 & 8 Politics & Citizenship
3-18-24 Chaps 9 & 10 Self-Defense & Punishment
4-15-24 Chaps 11 & 12 Inheritance & Medicine
9-16-24 Chaps 13 & 14 Church & Music
10-21-24 CANCELLED
11-18-24 Chaps 15 & 16 Healthcare & Traffic
12-16-24 Chapterss 17 & 18 Progress & Justice
This book is widely available. Try your local bricks-and-mortar bookstore, or order online from the non-profit bookstore that shares proceeds with various brick-and-mortar stores, Bookshop.org.
Article in the Boston Review on Cedric Johnson
Free .pdf handbook on global slavery
Also, a list of resources from Mia Charlene White, Ph.D., who spoke to us last year.
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Minutes of Past Board Meetings
3-9-22 Board meeting
2-9-22 Board meeting
1-12-22 Board meeting
11-10-21 Board Meeting
10-13-21 Board Meeting
9-8-21 Board Meeting
8-12-20 Board Meeting
8-23-20 Annual Meeting
9-9-20 Board Minutes
9-18-20 Board Meeting
10-14-20 Board Meeting
11-11-20 Board Meeting
12-9-20 Board Meeting
1-13-21 Board Meeting
2-10-21 Board Minutes.
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Past Newsletters
May 2020
April 2020
March 2020
February 2020
January 2020
December 2019
November 2019
October 2019
September 2019
June 2019
May 2019
April 2019
March 2019
February 2019
January 2019
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A Selection of Past Years' Programs:
https://www.essexethical.org/schedule03-04.html
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