Happy Easter and Chag Sameach

Dear Friends,

As the Jewish members of our community prepare their seder tables and Christian members prepare for Easter dinner, I am reminded of the lessons each holiday teaches us about the nature of oppression and what we can do as a community to overcome.

Easter is the story of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, after his crucifixion at the hands of the Romans. The miracle of the resurrection is the most important miracle of the Christian faith. When Jesus rose from the dead on the first Easter morning, he showed his followers that the hope he proclaimed in his Gospel message was real, and so was God's power at work in the world. Jesus serves as a key example that in the face of adversity, it is through love, forgiveness, and nonviolence, that we all wield true power, the kind that topples the institutions of oppression and sets us all free. 

Similarly, freedom from oppression is the central theme of the Jewish holiday of Passover. The story of Passover commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. As someone who has dedicated her career to public service and helping individuals and families escape the chains of poverty, I find this holiday particularly moving. This celebration of freedom and family begins with the lighting of candles. As you light them, I urge you to recommit yourself to fanning the flames of justice for those who continue to face intolerance and persecution.

From my family to yours, I’d like to wish you a Happy Easter and Chag Sameach.

Sincerely,
Gwen    

Where to Turn for Help When Filing Taxes

As the deadline for filing taxes draws closer, I wanted to share with you some free resources that you can take advantage of if you need help. For almost 50 years, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide has offered free tax preparation for low- and moderate-income taxpayers. While their volunteers are especially trained to help with individuals 60 and older, their services are available to taxpayers of all ages. We have several of these sites in Milwaukee County. You can look through an extensive list below to find the location nearest you.