For the last twenty-eight years Elaine Leeder has been working in prisons, first at Elmira Correctional Facility, then San Quentin, and now in prisons all over the state of California. Her teaching, then running self-help groups and now doing Restorative Justice Victim/Offender Dialogues, has shown her that there is redemption, remorse and contrition behind the walls. People can be transformed even in the most oppressive of circumstances.

Leeder will discuss the Jewish values and spirituality - Teshuvah, Chesed and Tikkun Olam - that deeply inform her work. She will describe the forgiveness she sees in victims (or victims’ families) for some of the most horrendous of crimes like murder, kidnapping, rape and robbery. Her presentation will focus on real situations that will inspire and touch you and you in profound ways. Her own growth has been deeply informed by these powerful stories.

This talk is co-sponsored by the Institute for Jewish Spirituality and Society, Congregation Shir Tikvah, and Congregation Beth Israel.

Doors 6:30, Talk 7:00 pm

All Ages, Free