Why We Gather
Source: The Freedom Haggadah (Jewish Council on Urban Affairs & Beth Shalom B’nai Zaken Congregation)
Passover celebrates the redemption of the Jews from enslavement in Egypt. This
traditional story of defiance against brutality and slavery has inspired countless men and
women to achieve freedom in our own times.
As the haggadah says, “B'khol dor v’dor chayav adam lirot et atzmo k’ilu hu yatza
mi’Mitzrayim,” – “from generation to generation, each of us is obligated to see ourselves
as though we personally had just been freed from slavery.” We must remember the past
to understand today and to protect our tomorrows.
Therefore, in each generation and each year, we retell the story of the exodus to our
children and to our grandchildren, in order that they, too, will understand the pain of
slavery and the value of freedom.
Our story is the story of all people who have ever been in bondage, and this story
compels us to work toward freedom for those who remain physically, spiritually, or
economically enslaved.i
Let us therefore celebrate our freedom and strengthen ourselves to join the fight against
injustice wherever it exists. In the words of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.,
“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable
network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny.”ii
Please keep Dr. King’s words in mind as we go throughout our Seder. Our theme for the
night is justice for all, and we will reflect on the different ways in which we can work for a
more just city.
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Passover Guide
Hosting your first Passover Seder? Not sure what food to serve? Curious to
know more about the holiday? Explore our Passover 101 Guide for answers
to all of your questions.