By Sadie Shapiro, JCAN NYC 2025 summer intern
This isn’t just a climate event, it’s a mitzvah.
On Sun Day, communities across New York gather to demand bold climate action and celebrate clean energy solutions like solar power.
But for Jewish communities, this is more than just a general cause. It connects directly to core Jewish values and teachings.
Teshuvah in Action: Turning Toward a Better Future
In Judaism, teshuvah (repentance) is more than just saying "sorry." It’s a four-step process:
Recognize the harm
Take responsibility
Repair the damage
Commit to do better
Sun Day is a tangible way to actively do this. We recognize the damage caused by fossil fuels and climate injustice. So we take responsibility, as individuals, as communities, and as Jews. We show up to repair. And we commit to a better, more sustainable path forward.
Why Should Jews Care About the Environment?
Judaism has long-standing values that encourage caring for the world around us. Here are a few key ideas that relate directly to climate action:
Tikkun Olam — This means “repairing the world.” It’s a central idea in Jewish life and is about doing our part to fix what’s broken—whether that’s injustice, pollution, or damage to nature.
Bal Tashchit — This is a commandment that teaches us not to waste or destroy the earth’s resources unnecessarily. It’s a reminder that how we treat the environment matters and that we should act with care and intention.
Shmirat HaTeva — This means “guarding nature.” Judaism teaches that we are caretakers of the planet—not its owners. We have a responsibility to protect it, for ourselves and for future generations. The Earth is not ours to exploit—it’s ours to protect.
Lo Ta’amod Al Dam Re’echa (Do Not Stand Idly By):
Climate change is not just an environmental issue—it’s a justice issue. From heat waves that disproportionately affect communities of color to flood-prone housing and polluted air, Jewish ethics demand that we act. We cannot stand idly by.
Why Show Up for Sun Day?
Sun Day is a way for Jewish communities to live out these values in a visible and meaningful way. By participating, we:
Show that Jewish voices are part of the climate movement
Build connections between Jewish identity and caring for the Earth
Help push for policies that protect people and the planet
Encourage more Jews to see environmental action as part of their spiritual and communal life
You don’t have to be an expert to get involved. Just showing up, listening, and lending your presence makes a difference.
Let’s Be Part of the Solution
Caring for the environment isn’t separate from being Jewish—it’s part of it. Sun Day is one opportunity to take that seriously and join others who are working toward a better future.
Join us. Let’s take action together.