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UAHC Releases Sing Out for Justice Sing Out for Justice, an exuberant collection of contemporary and traditional social justice songs performed by the artists who made this music famous, has just been released by the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism for the Union of American Hebrew Congregations. The recording captures the electricity of a once-in-a-lifetime concert featuring Peter Yarrow (of Peter, Paul and Mary) singing duets with his daughter Bethany; Debbie Friedman; Linda Hirschhorn; Doug Mishkin; the duo Kol B'Seder (Dan Freelander & Jeff Klepper); and other artists. They were recorded live before 4,500 leaders of the Reform movement at the UAHC's Dallas Biennial on November 1, 1997. In addition, Theodore Bikel and the group Beged Kefet contributed studio recordings to Sing Out for Justice. "Sometimes the songs remind us of the origins of our efforts on behalf of positive social change," comments Peter Yarrow. "Some people will be inspired by these songs to begin their process of tikkun olam. Others will be reassured that we have, indeed, been working together effectively on behalf of critical issues for many years. Undoubtedly, the songs will help re-energize and recommit us to the task of working towards the objectives of the Religious Action Center: social justice, community, and peace in the world. I am proud to be a part of this remarkable project." Proceeds from the album benefit the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism (RAC), which has served as the hub of Jewish social justice and legislative activity in Washington, DC, for over 35 years. "When we are tired and fear we cannot go on, the music of justice serves to lift our spirits, renew our vision, and redirect our struggle," said Rabbi David Saperstein, director of the RAC. "Music alone cannot clothe the poor, shelter the homeless, or conquer the tyrant. Only we, inspired by the music, can do that," he added. The RAC operates under the auspices of the UAHC, which represents 1.5 million Reform Jews in 875 congregations throughout North America, and the Central Conference of American Rabbis, comprised of 1,800 Reform spiritual leaders. The selections on Sing Out For Justice reflect many musical traditions. Some songs are well known to the Reform movement through summer camps and synagogue services (such as Debbie Friedman's Save a Life and Doug Mishkin's Olim) while others grow from the powerful roots and soaring emotions of spirituals (Peter Yarrow's River of Jordan), folk (Bob Dylan's Blowin' in the Wind), and blues (Linda Hirschhorn's Homeless Blues). Sing Out For Justice is available on compact disc for $25 and audiocassette for $18; the price includes shipping and handling, as well as a $10 tax-deductible contribution to the RAC. It can be ordered via the URJ PRESS's toll free phone number at 1-888-489-UAHC or the website at http://www.URJPress.com. More information about the RAC as well as samples from the recording are available on the RAC's website: http://www.rj.org/rac. Complete play list: River of Jordan (Performed by Peter & Bethany Yarrow)
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