This past weekend, on the second night of Rosh Hashanah, I stood on the steps of the Supreme Court to honor the memory of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg z”l. Hundreds gathered in Washington DC as part of Saturday’s candlelit vigil to pay tribute to a woman who worked so fiercely for justice. Below are my full remarks. I hope these words bring you comfort in this time of mourning.
“I’m Rabbi Ilana Zietman from GatherDC. I also happen to have grown up in the same synagogue as Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg in Brooklyn, New York.
Just this morning at Rosh Hashanah prayer services, Jews around the world bringing in the New Year recited this famous line: “The great shofar will be sounded and the still small voice will be heard.” This verse reminds us that power comes in many forms, but especially from the often overlooked voices.
Justice Ginsburg was our country’s shofar. She made us pay attention to so many underestimated voices fighting for justice and equality.
As we mourn this great loss, let us also feel empowered by Justice Ginsburg’s resounding legacy. May it ignite us to continue her pursuit of justice for all people and for generations to come. Zichrona L’Vracha, may her memory be a blessing, always.
Tekiah.”
