Shmuly Yanklowitz

Shmuly Yanklowitz represents a new wave of religious leadership, one that sees social justice as a non-negotiable extension of faith. Ordained as an Orthodox rabbi, his work consistently pushes at the boundaries of tradition, advocating for a more inclusive and socially engaged Judaism. He is the driving force behind Uri L'Tzedek, an organization that mobilizes young Jews around workers' rights and ethical consumption, and he has been a vocal critic of industrial animal agriculture, framing it as a moral crisis. Yanklowitz's activism is grounded in both Talmudic scholarship and hands-on service, whether visiting immigrants in detention centers or organizing community support for the homeless. His voice, amplified through numerous books and frequent media appearances, argues that spirituality without action is incomplete, making him a polarizing yet pivotal figure in contemporary American religious life.