Dear BWC Community, 

We know this is not the post election morning we were hoping to wake up to. Many of us may still be reeling, and we might be experiencing anger, sadness, fear, numbness, confusion, frustration or heartbreak. However the election results are landing with you, know that as a community we are here for each other. 

We have been reflecting on our founding charge, as laid out in our 1901 Declaration of Principles: 

“The Workmen’s Circle knows that the aid which it can bring to the worker today is no more than a drop on a hot stone. It will do in time of need. But that there shall be no need–this is the true ideal.”  

To take care of each others’ needs, and to work for a world where everyones’ needs are taken care of–that has been the purpose of BWC for 123 years. In that time, Workers Circle members have lived through times of war, uncertainty, revolution, ascendent social movements, state repression, and moments of major gains and losses for working people and for oppressed groups. And still, our purpose of building a Jewishly rooted community that holds each other and stays true to our vision for the world we want to live in has been consistent. We have each other and this history to lean on today. 

In the days, weeks, months and years ahead we will continue to hold each other and continue fighting for the liberation of all people. As we grapple with results of this election, here are some resources we’d like to offer: 

• Check out this fantastic resource list compiled by BWC social work intern Julie Feinberg. If you are feeling like you don’t know what to do right now, this is a place to start. 

• Join us for a “Keep Moving Forward” post election shabes on Friday. You can register here. There are only a few spots left for the in-person gathering, but there will be a virtual option at 7 pm as well. 
  
  
• Read these resonant reflections from BWC president Rachel Hess. 

You are not alone. Remember today to drink water, to spend time outside, to connect with others and ground in the fact that our first job is to take care of ourselves and each other. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me, the BWC board and staff, and reach for this community. It is what we were made for.

Onwards,

Rebecca Zimmerman Hornstein
Executive Director

Rachel Hess
Board President