Morris Allen

Graphic by Angelie Zaslavsky
Rabbi Morris Allen has been our rabbi for nearly 30 years. He has overseen the growth of our synagogue from about 50 families to nearly 400 families. Our members are very committed, with about 250 people regularly attending Shabbat morning services. But Rabbi Allen’s real impact has been on our lives. He has shown us an authentic, traditional, egalitarian approach to Judaism and our community, empowering us to “own” our Judaism. Through his many initiatives, he has enabled us to learn to daven and lead services, read Torah, and study and keep kashrut. Personally, Rabbi Allen has made me a better person. He has enriched me, my family, our shul, and the larger Twin Cities Jewish community, teaching us how relevant Jewish practice and observance is for today’s world.
— Stuart Bear + 5 other nominations
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
That’s why I’m paying it Forward, by matching $36,000 of reader gifts. It’s an investment in the Forward’s newsroom, to continue telling the American Jewish story with truth and independence.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
