Inclusion

Our TBZ community is inclusive and unique. Our members are diverse seekers and believers with a range of abilities and disabilities, committed to a range of Jewish practices and philosophical traditions, and energized by the potential of spiritual connection and social justice. TBZ is a place to find oneself and to be at peace among others. At TBZ we can freely proclaim” Hineni” – “Here we are!”- and remind ourselves of the special bond we have together and our commitment to being a place of full participation for people with all kinds of disabilities.

In 2017 Temple Beth Zion was honored to become a Congregational Partner of the Ruderman Synagogue Inclusion Project (RSIP), a joint program between the Ruderman Foundation and Combined Jewish Philanthropies. The mission of RSIP is to create communities where people of all abilities are valued equally and participate fully. We have used the grant in a variety of ways: to create accommodations designed to foster inclusion and accessibility for all our members. (see below)

More recently, RSIP has turned its attention to the issue of mental health and has come up with a range of initiatives. We are excited to announce that TBZ has joined with RSIP, and other synagogues in the greater Boston area, to focus on the often hidden and stigmatized area of mental illness.  Our goal is to increase our general awareness of this issue and to learn what we, as individuals and as a community, can do to support those with mental health needs.

Throughout the year, we have promoted understanding of the issue of inclusion by hosting talks and workshops. Through these community-wide learning programs, we hope to make clear our commitment to include everyone in our community with a caring and open heart.

The Inclusion Committee welcomes your support and warmly invites you to join us.  If you are interested in participating or would like to share any feedback or concerns, please contact us. We assure you that all communications will be kept confidential.

Accessibility and Accommodations at TBZ

• Elevators are available on every level of the synagogue.
• Assistive listening devices and magnifiers can be found on the credenza outside the sanctuary.
• Large print prayerbooks for Friday night services are available on the bimah. Please ask one of the ushers.
• Focus/fidget tools are available on the credenza outside the sanctuary. Please return after use.
• Mezuzot are also placed at wheelchair-height on the doorposts of the sanctuary and the community room.
• Preferred seating for people with wheelchairs, walkers, visual or hearing impairments, and other needs is available in the sanctuary. Please ask ushers for assistance.
• Accessible restrooms are located on all floors. Changing tables are located in the restrooms on the sanctuary level and third floor, including the step up level. All gender restrooms are located on the sanctuary level and third floor. 
• Nursing mothers will find privacy and comfort in a lounge on the third floor.
• A break room for children and parents is available on the third floor. The service can still be heard through speakers located in the room. Childcare is available in room Alef on some Shabbatot. Please check the schedule.
• Highchairs are available during Kiddush for families with small children.
• A Kiddush table for those with food allergies or sensitivities has been set aside with gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options. Please partake only if you have such concerns.

Resources

• Inclusion Flyer
• Mental Health Resources