Who We Are
The Black Jewish Alliance 831 is a community partnership based in Monterey County (area code 831). It is a collaborative effort between the NAACP Monterey County Branch #1049 and Congregation Beth Israel. The alliance brings together members of the Black and Jewish communities along with allies to explore interwoven histories and address modern challenges.
The group honors a legacy of “Shared Struggles and Collective Hope,” drawing inspiration from the historical synergy between Jewish activists and Black civil rights leaders. They recognize that while both communities have distinct identities, they share a narrative of diaspora, resilience, and a pursuit of liberation.
Our Commitment
The alliance is committed to building a coalition that moves beyond historical nostalgia to address the urgent issues of today. Their core commitments include:
Combating Hate: Standing united against the resurgence of both antisemitism and systemic racism.
Social Justice Advocacy: Working together on critical community issues, including voting rights and racial equity.
Education and Dialogue: Hosting “Community Conversations” and educational screenings (such as the PBS series Black and Jewish America) to foster a deeper understanding of shared values like Tikkun Olam (repairing the world).
Strengthening Local Ties: Bridging the divide between local congregations and civic organizations to ensure that both communities flourish through mutual support and authentic relationship-building.
The alliance serves as a platform for honest conversation, aiming to turn historical empathy into active, modern-day solidarity.
Black-Jewish Helix of Hope
Van Jones comments begin at the 40-minute mark
4 Part PBS Series Freely Available
Join us for the Discussion Series
LINKS TO RECORDINGS
EPISODE ONE: From intersecting histories of persecution to diverging fates on American shores, Episode One traces the early forces that shaped the Black and Jewish connection in the U.S. Journeys of exile, faith, resilience, terror, migration, early civil rights partnerships, and tests of solidarity define the relationship by the early 20th century.
This Episode is only available to those with the PBS Passport
"Strange Fruit"
EPISODE TWO: Explores the alliances between Black and Jewish communities in the first half of the 20th century, and their divides. From the Harlem Renaissance and Great American Songbook to fighting Nazis, it examines influential collaborations, frictions, and the lasting cultural and social impact of their intertwined histories.
This Episode is only available to those with the PBS Passport
"The Grand Alliance"
EPISODE THREE: Recalls the 1950s and 1960s “Grand Alliance” between Black and Jewish communities. From Brown v. Board of Education to
Freedom Summer, Jews were key allies in the Black-led civil rights movement. But by the end of the 1960s, fractures grew as overseas conflict and the domestic realities of race and class pushed the communities apart.
"Crossroads"
EPISODE FOUR: Explores the evolving Black and Jewish alliance from the 1970s onward. From affirmative action and political milestones to
Middle East tensions and rising hate, it examines challenges, shared struggles, and the lessons of solidarity in a divided America.
ANN JEALOUS, MY CIVIL RIGHTS JOURNEY, CBI 1/17/25
Cantor, Alisa Fineman’s Introduction and Ann’s comments at 42:00-1:25:00. Using CC will enable you to read along.