From the Desk of Rabbi Samuel M. Cohon | Rabbi of Congregation Beit Simcha and host of The Too Jewish Radio Show + Podcast

Shabbat Shalom
Shabbat Shalom

From the Desk of Rabbi Samuel M. Cohon | Rabbi of Congregation Beit Simcha and host of The Too Jewish Radio Show + Podcast

This week we read the wonderful Torah portion B’Shalach, the great conclusion of the tale of the Exodus from Egypt. The story is familiar from Hebrew School, Torah classes, sermons, Passover Seders, movies, even cartoons. The Israelites, under the leadership of Moses—with help from his brother Aaron and sister Miriam—have been liberated from the dark night of Egyptian slavery. God has sent 10 plagues to destroy the will of the oppressors, and now our people escapes Egypt after 400 years of slavery with bundles of clothing, unleavened matzah baked in haste, and trinkets of gold and silver given them by their former slavers.

 

The Israelites approach the Sea—some say the Sea of Reeds, some the Red Sea—when the evil Pharaoh has a change of heart. He decides, cruelly, to follow the Israelites with his chariot army and re-enslave them. Stuck on the shore of the Sea between the oncoming enemy and deep waters, God miraculously saves the Israelites by dividing the sea and allowing them—us—to cross on dry land, the waters closing up behind to destroy their Egyptian pursuers. 

 

As they look back on the now unparted waters the Israelites celebrate, and sing a great song, “Who is like You, God, among the gods? Who is like You, adorned in holiness, awesome in praise, who does wonders?”

 

That song is part of every evening and morning service in Jewish tradition, the Mi Chamocha, and it is usually sung to a melody that is upbeat, joyous, energizing. For in that very moment our people fully comprehended the miraculous saving power of God, the amazing ability to be redeemed from death and destruction.

 

While it doesn’t always turn out that way, it does remind us that, in Jewish belief God can do anything, and has done so for our people at rare and remarkable times. It’s not something to count on in daily life—although David Ben-Gurion, the founding Prime Minister of Israel and the true father of the country, memorably said, “In Israel in order to be a realist you must believe in miracles.” That capacity is actualized in this portion to demonstrate freedom can come even to the most downtrodden and enslaved people in the world. 

 

Ben-Gurion also said, “Anyone who doesn’t believe you can’t change history has never written his memoirs.” One of the great aspects of B’shalach is that as soon as the story of the Exodus and the crossing of the sea is told in prose form, there is an immediate reinterpretation into poetry. And we have been reinterpreting this fantastic tale ever since. We’ll do it again not only this Shabbat, but again on Passover.

 

Freeing the oppressed thus lies very close to the heart of Judaism and Jewish life. It is also a wonderful lesson that has been taken to heart by nearly every liberation movement since the Exodus, over 3000 years ago. No matter how dark the prospects for freedom may seem, sometimes—often—God makes it possible for slaves to become free, for autocrats, dictators and cruel leaders to be overthrown. 

 

In the same way, God can make it possible for any of us to free ourselves from the bonds imposed upon us in our own personal lives, allowing us to achieve spiritual liberty and to reach a time of true celebration.

 

On this Sabbath celebrating liberation, it is customary for synagogues to hold a joyous Shabbat of Song, a Shabbat Shirah. Attend Friday night services this and you can enjoy a musical reminder of the power of divine liberation from autocracy.

It is because of the Jewish values that guide our work that we at the J have built a space where everyone belongs. This is not just something we say, but a concept that is foundational to everything we do. From the scholarships we offer for membership and childcare, to the essential programs in our Disability Services and Healthy Aging departments, and the Arts and Culture events that start conversations that build bridges, we truly live our mission to foster wellness and broaden communal harmony by welcoming people of all ages and identities to participate in a community that not only welcomes them with open arms, but supports them through all stages of life. “Tzedek, tzedek, tirdof” — “justice, justice, you shall pursue” — is a biblical command we find in Deuteronomy that is resonate in our work and the world today, particularly as we celebrate Black History Month and Jewish Disability Awareness, Inclusion, and Acceptance Month (JDAAIM) in February. 

 

This week at the J, participants in Disability Program Services sharpened their culinary skills in weekly Cooking Club — this week with a delicious recipe for Guacamole! DPS has been busy preparing for the next phase of JJobs, a vocational training program that provides interns from the department the opportunity to build confidence, independence, and job skills. Phase 2 is the launch of a coffee cart that will serve patrons of the J with delicious local coffee, matcha, and more. Stay tuned for more information in the coming weeks! 

On Thursday, we joined our friends at the Tucson Jewish Museum + Holocaust Center for a screening of Nelly + Nadine, an unlikely and harrowing love story between Belgian classical singer, Nelly Mousset-Vos and Nadine Hwang, the daughter of a Chinese ambassador to Spain. Nelly and Nadine meet in the darkest of times on Christmas Eve, 1944. Through their newly recovered personal diaries and Super-8 home movies, the film takes audiences on a personal journey through the nearly forgotten history of one of the greatest love stories never told.

 

Every day, we nurture these values from the very beginning in our Early Childhood Education program. Through daily moments of curiosity, creativity, and connection, children build the foundations for lifelong learning, kindness, respect, and community. In caring for our youngest members, we affirm our belief that inclusion, justice, and belonging are not abstract ideals, but lessons lived and learned from the very start. Registration for new families seeking to join our award-winning program opens on Sunday — we’d love for your kids to join us! 

 

As we move into Shabbat and reflect on these lessons of justice and belonging, we invite you to consider what small and big things you can do in your own life to help build a more just and compassionate world for all. To learn more about JDAAIM and explore some resources that work to that end, check out this blog post on the J’s News + Media page. Shabbat Shalom. 

Reminders, Resources + Learning

Each week we share resources for more learning:

 

This week’s resources:

Last week’s resources: 

 

Is there a topic you’d like to learn more about? Email Jenn Selco with requests. 

January Staff Spotlight Round-Up

Whether through a swimming lesson, an art class, or simply a smile, each day the Tucson J staff brightens the lives of our members and guests. We are proud of the variety of skills and stories that our staff bring to their work, and celebrate this each week through our Facebook and Instagram “Staff Spotlight” series.  

 

Continue reading on for a preview of our January spotlights, and check out the full posts at all @tucsonjcc accounts!

Gabi Tronziger | Youth Gymnastics + Dance Coach

“I am super excited to be coaching dance and gymnastics here at the J!

 

I began dancing at the age of 4, studying various dance forms such as contemporary, jazz, hip-hop, and tap. Complementing my dance experience, I also trained in gymnastics, which provided me with a solid foundation. My dance and gymnastics background has allowed me to coach with a broad perspective, developing each student’s technique, confidence, and creativity.

 

My personal commitment is to inspire dancers and gymnasts at all levels, creating a fun and supportive atmosphere here at the Tucson J. Going forward, I’m excited to continue to grow as a coach while pursuing dance and gymnastic training.

 

I hope to see you or your kids in the gymnastics room or in the dance studio soon!”

Jo Dee Lawson | ECE Teacher

“Hi! My name is Jo Dee, and I have been working at the J for 18 years. I have worked with 3’s and Pre-K children and am now working with Pre-K on the THA campus. My absolute favorite part of the day is seeing the lightbulb go off as the children learn something new. It’s as if you can see the wheels turning, their eyes get big, and their face lights up, and then the excitement comes as they explode with their newfound knowledge. Boom!

 

 

Outside of the J, I enjoy getting my hands dirty in the garden, camping, birding (amateur), hiking, being creative, reading, and my brand-new E bike (also amateur)! I am also very active in my church and love spending time with my fur babies.”

Alba Elena Montalvo Canez | DPS Program Manager

Q: Tell us about your background and role at the J! 

A: I’m a Tucson Native, and I’ve worked in different fields, but none of them compared to this job. I’ve worked at the Tucson J’s DPS program for about 3 and 1/2 years. I was introduced to this field by one of my friends, and I’ve been grateful since! Hoping to continue learning and experiencing new things in this field.

 

Q: If you could instantly learn any skill, what would it be and why? 

A: How to crochet, because I want to knit a sweater.

 

Q: What is your favorite part of your role? 

A: The best part of my job is the chance to connect with everyone! No two days are alike, but each one brings joy.

Zach Glicksman | Chief Operating Officer

Watch Zach’s video Q+A here! 

Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion Month at the Tucson J

Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion Month (JDAAIM) is celebrated every February by Jewish communities worldwide and realized year-round at the Tucson J. The month creates awareness around the stigma and stereotypes people with disabilities face, builds solidarity, empowers people with disabilities, and works to ensure their inclusion in Jewish life and community.  


Everyone belongs at the Tucson J, and we celebrate, support, and recognize the uniqueness of every person. Our programs and spaces are designed with accessibility in mind, so that everyone can thrive and grow while they are at the J.  

Eight Guiding Principles on Inclusion 

JCC Association of North America’s Eight Guiding Principles on Inclusion are foundational to the work of the JCC Movement. Rooted in Jewish values, they provide a shared language and direction to these vitally important endeavors. The principles originally were developed as a collaborative effort among JCC Association staff, leaders in the field, and external partners and professionals, including people with lived experience of disability. Although these principles were created specifically for the inclusion of people with disabilities, their core values are universally applicable to all areas of inclusion. The Tucson J is committed to living these eight principles:  


Shlemut — Wholeness 

People with disabilities are whole people who do not need to be cured or fixed. We view disability as a rich and essential part of human diversity.   JCCs strive to be places where our whole selves are celebrated. 


B’tselem Elohim — Inherent worth 

We respect the inherent dignity and autonomy of each person. We value people because of who they are, not because of how much they produce or accomplish. Each person has something to learn, something to teach, and something to contribute to community. JCCs strive to be places where each individual is valued.   


Arevut — Interdependence 

No one is entirely independent. Every person is dependent on others, in one way or another. Each person functions differently depending on context and environment.   JCCs strive to be communities that acknowledge and celebrate our interdependence 


Negeshut – Accessibility 

We are deliberate and mindful about the environment we shape. As our tradition teaches: “You shall not insult the deaf, or place a stumbling block before the blind.” (Leviticus 19:15) Starting from where we are, we look at how we can shift our policies, communications, programs, processes, and facilities to increase and enhance accessibility to JCCs and their programs—and ein sof (we do not finish). We always strive to become more accessible.   JCCs actively seek to identify, remove, and prevent barriers to full participation and to become more accessible by learning about and practicing inclusive design. 


Al Pi Darko — Inclusive education 

Building upon Proverbs 22:6—“Teach children according to their way,”—JCCs offer inclusive programs that meet the individual learning needs of children, families, and people of all ages. JCCs strive to support and collaborate with program professionals, educators, and families to ensure educational programs are inclusive 


Kavanah — Acting with intention 

JCCs embrace the principle of “Nothing About Us Without Us” and include people with disabilities in all facets of planning and decision-making. We plan with accessibility in mind, so we do not create new barriers. When we are not intentionally inclusive, we may be unintentionally exclusive. JCCs strive to be proactive and anticipate access needs 


Svivat Avodah Tovah — Positive work environment 

JCCs plan for and accommodate staff access needs, from the initial recruitment process to the day-to-day work environment of employees. JCCs strive to be accessible and supportive workplaces in which staff can learn, grow, and achieve 


Tzedek — Justice 

We view inclusion as the work of tzedek (justice) rather than tzedakah (charity). Because ableism is intertwined with other systemic barriers, we draw on an intersectional approach in undertaking this work. Efforts to remove barriers to full participation are acts of tikkun olam (repair of the world), and we seek to center people with disabilities as contributors and leaders in these endeavors.   JCCs strive to be communities engaged in the work of justice for and with people with disabilities. 


Read the JCC Association Inclusion Statement and check out the 8 Guiding Principles Poster Series here. 

Advancements to our Commitment 

Each week through our Disability Program Services department Day Program, we welcome over 70 adults with disabilities to the J to build relationships, practice wellness, exercise their creativity, and contribute to our vibrant community. The program, one of the largest in Southern Arizona of its kind, began as the Taglit Day Program founded in 2008 with support from a committee of dedicated lay leaders. Disability Program Services has grown to serve more people each year and deepened in its impact not only for the participants, but for the entire Tucson community. Over the past several months, with support from grants, outstanding leadership, and a commitment to evolve, the J has expanded its offerings with an enriching vocational training component, JJobs. Interns in the Day Program undergo resume writing, the job interview process, and comprehensive job training ahead of working at the JShop, where community members can purchase a variety of items, including J-branded hats, swim goggles, and even coffee. This new opportunity has not only enhanced the experience of DPS participants, but of everyone who spends time at the J. We all benefit when our peers are uplifted— a beautiful example of arevut (interdependence) and svivat avodah tovah (positive work environment). Learn more about DPS JJobs and the JShop here!  


Last summer, the Tucson J had the honor of hosting 21 JCC Maccabi Access Games athletes—including four from right here in Tucson—the largest delegation since the program was first piloted in 2022. The Access Games offered an inclusive and meaningful way for athletes with cognitive and developmental disabilities to join thousands of their Jewish peers from around the world in experiencing the magic of JCC Maccabi. The program, now out of its pilot phase, also provides JCCs with opportunities to develop and strengthen connections for these teens and their families in their own communities. Check out this story about the 2025 Access Games at the Tucson J here.  


In November, we were proud to once again partner with ACEing Autism, a national nonprofit dedicated to helping children with autism grow, develop, and benefit from social connections and fitness through affordable tennis programming. Over 20 youth aged 5-18 learned new skills, made friends, and most importantly, had a whole lot of fun. The program is supported by a team of Tucson volunteers who paired up with participants to lead them through the clinic. Many of the volunteers were faculty and students from the Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences department at the University of Arizona,which offered a unique and valuable mutual learning opportunity! Families, participants, and volunteers alike found meaningful connection and movement throughout the ACEing Autism experience. Read more about ACEing Autism here and stay tuned for information about the next clinic coming to the J in March!  

Questions for Reflection 


What does JDAAIM mean to you? This month, take some time to reflect on the following questions:  

  • What assumptions do I hold (consciously or unconsciously) about disability 
  • When have I felt included or excluded in Jewish or communal spaces, and what can that teach me about inclusion? 
  • What does a fully inclusive community look like?  
  • How can I help make the J and my communities outside the J more inclusive?  

Resources for Jewish Disability Acceptance, Awareness, and Inclusion Month 

  • Check out this awesome book list for adults from some of our favorite voices in the Disability Rights Movement, including Jewish activist, Judy Huemann (z”l) 
  • Listen to this podcast from the Jewish Women’s Archive about a woman who reads the Torah in Braille 
  • Check out State of Arizona Disability Resources and more here. 
  • Read more about how JCC’s are practicing inclusion here.