4 | DECEMBER 31 • 2020 contents OUR JN MISSION: We aspire to communicate news and opinion that’s trusted, valued, engaging and distinctive. We strive to reflect diverse community viewpoints while also advocating positions that strengthen Jewish unity and continuity. As an independent, responsible, responsive community member, we actively engage with individuals and organizations dedicated to enhancing the quality of life, and Jewish life, in Southeast Michigan. Views 6-10 12 The Right to Read Seven Detroit students and a Jewish attorney with Michigan roots sued the state for education access. Behind the landmark lawsuit and its aftermath. 15 The Man Behind the COVID-19 Vaccine Trials Virologist credits Detroit upbringing with skills he used to expedite vaccine. 16 Hillel Head of School Reflects on “Rollercoaster” First Year Katz began planning the school’s fall reopening in April. 17 Turning Up the Heat New Jewish climate justice group ‘Dayenu’ mobilizes Michigan voters. 18 Alumni Step Up The Friends of Pasteur School help needy families during the pandemic. 20 A Bar Mitzvah Like No Other A very socially distant bar mitzvah celebration. Eretz 22 Abraham Ambassadors Two local businessmen, serving as diplomats in Arab nations, play role in Middle East peace accords. Moments 24 Moments Spirit 25 Torah portion Community Directory 26 Listings Technology 31 Jews in the Digital Age: New App Enhances Prayer During Pandemic ARTS&LIFE 32 Andrew’s Top Movie Picks of 2020 34 Suicide Hotline Inspires Play Ann Arbor native wins national writing competition. 35 Danny Raskin’s 2020 Recap 36 Celebrity Jews Online Events 37 Etc. The Exchange 38 Soul 40 Looking Back 46 18 32 20 Shabbat Lights Shabbat Starts: Friday, Jan. 1, 4:52 p.m. Shabbat Ends: Saturday, Jan. 2, 5:59 p.m. * Times according to Yeshiva Beth Yehudah calendar. ON THE COVER: Cover photo/credit: Osborn High Counselor Andrea Jackson, gradu- ate Jamarria Hill and attorneys Mark Rosenbaum and Michael Kelley. Courtesy of Detroit Literacy Group Cover design: Kaitlyn Schoen thejewishnews.com Follow Us on Social Media: Facebook @DetroitJewishNews Twitter @JewishNewsDet Instagram @detroitjewishnews Dec. 31, 2020-Jan. 6, 2021 / 16-22 Tevet 5781 | VOLUME CLVIII, ISSUE 22 For the Joys of Independent Senior Living We have adopted new standard of care in our daily operations by implementing COVID- specific initiatives for our residents’ well-being including: Ÿ Contact-free “EasyMove” program Ÿ On-site COVID-19 rapid response testing Ÿ Proper use of PPE Ÿ On-site electrostatic cleaning Even now, All Seasons is designed to delight every one of your senses…every day! Ÿ An expansive menu of freshly prepared meals and daily chef specials, served in one of our dining rooms or delivered to your home several times per day Ÿ Individual chauffeured transportation Ÿ A variety of thoughtfully planned activities Ÿ Outdoor fitness classes Ÿ Fine arts performances Ÿ A host of technology-based forms of enrichment Ÿ Family engagement app IN THED JEWS