Rabbi Michael Lerner, a prominent figure in political and social activism, has passed away, leaving behind a profound legacy. Born in Newark, New Jersey, Lerner’s journey towards becoming a noted author and activist included degrees from Columbia University, the University of California, Berkeley, and the Wright Institute in Berkeley.
Lerner’s activism began in the 1960s with the free speech movement at Berkeley. His outspoken stance against the Chicago Seven trial led to scrutiny by FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover, despite his nonviolent approach. Though he faced charges of inciting a riot, these were eventually dropped, reflecting his commitment to peaceful protest.
His most significant legacy is Tikkun, the interfaith magazine he founded in 1986. Tikkun, known for its progressive stance and advocacy for social justice, garnered numerous accolades, including the Magazine of the Year: Overall Excellence award from the Religion Newswriters Association in 2014 and 2015. Unfortunately, Tikkun ceased publication in April 2024 due to financial challenges.
Lerner was also a prolific author, with notable works such as “The Left Hand of God: Taking Back Our Country from the Religious Right,” “The Socialism of Fools: Anti-Semitism on the Left,” and “The Geneva Accord: And Other Strategies for Healing the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict.” His critical views, especially regarding Israel, sparked both support and controversy.
Recognized for his influential work, Lerner was named one of the world’s top 100 visionaries by Utne Reader and received the Gandhi, King, Ikeda Community Builders Prize from Morehouse College. Ordained as a rabbi in 1995, he led Beyt Tikkun synagogue in Berkeley and served on the Board of Rabbis of Northern California.
In a memorable quote from “The Left Hand of God: Taking Back Our Country from the Religious Right,” Lerner reflected on societal values: “This focus on money and power may do wonders in the marketplace, but it creates a tremendous crisis in our society. People who have spent all day learning how to sell themselves and to manipulate others are in no position to form lasting friendships or intimate relationships.”