Join National Council of Jewish Women, KC Section (NCJW) for two free, virtual educational programs in January and February.

“Grandparents Against Gun Violence: Before and During the Pandemic” will be held at 7 p.m. this evening, Jan. 21.

This program will feature Judy Sherry, president of Grandparents Against Gun Violence (GAGV) and Carla Oppenheimer, GAGV board member.

GAGV began in 2013 following the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. Since its inception, GAGV has grown dramatically and is involved in numerous community activities, including presenting an annual Community Forum on gun violence, distributing free gun locks and educational materials through their Lock It for Love project, and engaging in advocacy as part of their commitment to push for common sense gun laws.

Just like NCJW and other community organizations affected by the pandemic, GAGV adapted to the needed restrictions and continued their activities to keep their members engaged. You will learn about their work to prevent gun violence and how you can get involved in this relevant and important community issue.

RSVP to Oppenheimer at or visit NCJW’s website prior to the event to receive a Zoom link.

The second program is “Abortion, Judaism and the Law,” which will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 17.

It may be 2021 but it seems the fight is never over for a woman’s right to choose. Join NCJW to hear a panel discussion on Judaism and Women’s Right to Choose & Legislative Call to Action. Learn from front-line advocates where Judaism stands on this important topic and specific legislation that calls us to action.

Panelists with Q&A following include:

Julie Burkhart, founder and CEO of Trust Women of Wichita, KS; Rachel Sweet, Regional director of public policy and organizing at Planned Parenthood Great Plains; and Nadine Johnson, executive director of ACLU Kansas.

As part of this presentation, you will receive two handouts: Jewish law and abortion health care and a step-by-step instruction on HOW to find your local and state representatives, WHAT their voting record has been, and WHO to call to voice your opinion.

To get the link for this free program, you must register at www.eventbrite.com/e/abortion-judaism-and-the-law-tickets-134522846455.

To learn more about local NCJW programs, how to become involved and how to become a member, visit www.kansascity.section.ncjw.org.