Ruth Bader Ginsburg was my inspiration. As a young Jewish girl, she represented everything that I have ever wanted to be. She was strong, she was fearless, she was passionate. She was a trailblazer. When I think of everything RBG stood for, it feels so similar to the organization that has made me who I am today.

Going back to our roots, Anita Perlman was a gamechanger. She worked in the face of adversity to build BBG, and create a home for young Jewish women around the world. Similar to RBG, she didn’t let her gender get in the way of her goals. RBG went to law school with a majority of men, despite the backlash she faced, and Anita created BBG even though people told her she couldn’t.

Looking at BBG now, one section of the Red Book jumps out at me as I remember the Notorious RBG. Right inside the front cover reads one of our eight menorah pledge principles: “Philanthropy: We shall always be concerned with the underprivileged and distressed. We shall offer our help to those in need, recognizing that the ability to help others is a blessing and a responsibility.” In the Supreme Court, RBG’s vote influenced landmark cases that advanced the rights of women, racial minorities, and LGBTQ+ communities. Specifically, she helped allow women to sign a mortgage without a man, have a bank account without a male co-signer, have a job without being discriminated based on gender, and be pregnant or raise children and work.

Following her passing on September 18th and the first night of Rosh Hashana, RBG’s memory serves not only as a blessing but as a revolution. RBG sparked a flame and inspired millions of young women around the world to be fearless and passionate leaders.

On behalf of myself and many others, thank you, Ruth. Thank you for embodying BBG, and thank you for giving me a role model. Thank you for standing selflessly for things bigger than yourself. Thank you for everything you’ve done. We will honor your legacy and keep fighting for equality. We owe it to you.