Here’s a little summary of an article that appeared in Chicago Jewish News recently. I’m into the eco-kasher thing. I mean, I’m really into it. I find it fascinating to research not only my food, but all of my purchases to make sure I vote with dollars. That is, I make sure I give my money to companies I believe in.
Sometimes, it proves tricky, as I find myself having to pick between lesser evils to support a good policy and things of that nature. But, we wrestle with things, that’s just how we roll, no? Anyway, you can catch the full text of the article by Sue Fishkoff here but here’s the short version…
The United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism and the Rabbinical Assembly is working to create a further level of kashrut certification, a certification for food produced in a socially just way, with particular attention paid to food produced and gathered in safe, fair working conditions. The article continues, “The new label isn’t intended to replace existing kosher certification, which is under Orthodox supervision, but it constitutes a broader definition of kosher food that incorporates ideas of social justice from the Torah and Talmud.”
This initiative is not the first time Jewish groups have attempted to expand the definition of kashrut, either. The reform movement challenged the definition of kashrut in joining the Chavez refusal of non-union grapes and lettuce thirty years ago. The Renewal movement is generally credited with the eco-kashrut and kosher-vegetarian movements that began nearly twenty years ago.
Some orthodox and conservative leaders hesitate and point out that there would be great expense and effort associated with an expanded definition of kashrut to include eco-kashrut, but most can agree* that it is a worthy pursuit and initial reports from kosher food producers seem favorable.
So, now, we wait and see what happens at the Rabbinic Assembly in the spring. But, maybe it’s worth considering doing, whether it passes or not. What better way to spread the feeling of tikkun olam than by starting with the very basics.
(*We, the tribe, never collectively agree on anything.)
