The Ripple Effect of SEA Change

Maimonides taught that true Jewish life flourishes only in community, where individual acts of faith are woven into a collective purpose. This principle inspires our WHC SEA Change initiative — Study, Engage, Act — as we build on our strengths to nurture belonging and pursue justice, within and beyond our walls.

Our congregation is deeply rooted in tradition, yet open to innovation. SEA Change exemplifies this, drawing on WHC’s strong history of social justice. Like waves reshaping the shoreline, our consistent efforts address inequities while strengthening WHC as a community where every member feels seen, valued, and empowered.

Making Waves

SEA Change combines education and action, helping us live our Jewish values in practical, impactful ways. Working with partners like Action in Montgomery, Jews United for Justice, and Interfaith Power & Light, WHC members and clergy have joined campaigns to expand pre-K, stabilize housing costs, enact paid family and medical leave, and advocate for climate equity. These partnerships amplify our efforts, building bridges with leaders of diverse faiths.

In November, over 700 people, including members from WHC and other SEA Change congregations, came together for a multifaith action to champion affordable housing, climate justice, and expanded pre-K programs in Maryland before Comptroller Brooke Lierman and a dozen state legislators. Standing side-by-side with neighbors from different traditions, we saw the power of collective action. In January and February, WHC members will participate in Statewide Advocacy days in Annapolis with other faith groups. In March, we will deliver Purim bags decorated by our children to D.C. and Maryland policymakers

Cultivating Belonging

This outward impact is matched by the inward growth SEA Change fosters within WHC. It invites us to challenge our assumptions, deepen our empathy, and imagine what true inclusion looks like. Together we’re working to ensure everyone feels they belong at WHC. Affinity groups for LGBTQ+ members and Jews of Color offer vital spaces for connection. Our Shabbat Greeters emanated from SEA Change. Events like Jewish Disabilities Awareness, Acceptance, and Inclusion Shabbat, Pride Shabbat, and Juneteenth Shabbat celebrate the beautiful diversity of our congregation and remind us that inclusion is a central Jewish value. And through efforts to increase accessibility, we are working to ensure that every individual can fully participate in the sacred life of WHC. One of SEA Change’s cornerstone programs is Building Racial Stamina (BRS). BRS equips members to have meaningful conversations about race and equity, fostering a culture of belonging.

A Call to Action

The prophet Amos commands, “Let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like a mighty stream.” WHC SEA Change is our response to this call — a reminder that the pursuit of justice is not a task to complete but a journey to embrace. It reflects the heart of WHC: a community that moves together toward a vision of equity and dignity for all.

Whether you’re passionate about climate justice, economic fairness, reproductive rights, or fostering inclusion, there’s a place for you in SEA Change.

To learn more about SEA Change, visit whctemple.org/seachange or contact Lauren Lieberman at LLieberman@whctemple.org.

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