Left to right: Susan Pintchovski, Bettie Forman, Ellen Sable and Lea Isgur, part of the NCJW group at a “Boot Vouchers” Rally at the Texas State Capital where they advocated for Texas Public Schools. Courtesy: Bettie Forman

By Bettie Forman

The National Council of Jewish Women Austin had a remarkably busy fall of events and advocacy, starting with a lunch and virtual visit with NCJW’s Israel Program Director, Kalela Lancaster. The discussion centered around NCJW initiatives in Israel concerning women’s rights. The group had no idea that in a short amount of time, the focus of NCJW in Israel would be the Israel Granting Program Emergency Appeal, where they are building resources to address the most urgent and acute needs, while planning for the long crisis ahead with the war and hostage crisis.

The October program was focused on the women’s health care crisis, with special guest speaker Michele Scherz from the Center for Reproductive Rights. The Center for Reproductive Rights is a global human rights organization of lawyers and advocates who ensure reproductive rights are protected in law as a fundamental human right for the dignity, equality, health and well-being of every person.

November brought a lively visit with Texas State Senator Sarah Eckhardt, discussing a variety of issues and policies coming from our State Capital.

Future events include the Annual NCJW Chanukah Party, benefiting Dress for Success in December and the first annual NCJW Mahjjong Fun Day on February 4, 2024. Program topics in the spring include immigration issue and HIAS in Austin, and a visit with a representative from the Texas Holocaust, Genocide, and Antisemitism Advisory Commission.

For more information on NCJW, visit www.ncjw.org and www.ncjwaustin.org