Before we begin our Seder, we must acknowledge a few things about our space and our world:

We recognize that this is a pluralist Jewish space. All Jewish journeys are welcome at this Seder. Those of us here who do not identify as Jewish recognize that we are being welcomed as a guest into an intimate part of Jewish culture and understand that we should be respectful and nonjudgemental. Jewish culture values questions, especially on Passover, so if you want to know something, just ask!

We recognize that the injustices of the world are many, but the Passover motif reminds us of the words of Pirkei Avot: “It is not your duty to complete the work, but neither are you free to desist from it.” Together, this Passover, let us use our collective power to further the cause of justice and freedom. (Adapted from Eli Allen.)

We recognize that today there are still people in chains around the world and no one can truly be free while others are in chains. Where there is poverty and hunger and homelessness, there is no freedom. Where there is prejudice and bigotry and discrimination, there is no freedom; where there is violence, torture and war, there is no freedom. And where each of us is less than he or she might be, we are not free, not yet. (Adapted from Leonard Fine.)

We recognize that while the Jewish people may be free, not everyone has cause for celebration. Many people, even in a supposedly free society such as the United States, are bound by the hardships and challenges of their circumstances. We come together today with them in mind, determined to realize our vision of a day when we will all be truly free from the oppression of hunger and poverty. (Adapted from MAZON.)

Finally, we recognize that Lesley University sits on Massachusett, Pawtucket, and Naumkeag land. This land belongs to Indigenous people and has been unjustly settled upon by intruders. This land acknowledgement is meant to inspire us to take action in returning land to Indigenous nations and to support Indigenous organizations and campaigns.


haggadah Section: Introduction