In our Changemakers We Admire series, we highlight partners planting seeds of transformation in their communities. Each month, we ask the same three questions to a community member to explore what drives their work, what might surprise us, and the future they’re helping cultivate. This month, we’re spotlighting Colorado Jewish Climate Action through a conversation with Founder and Executive Director Moshe Kornfeld.
1. What drives your work in this community?
“I’m driven by a desire to help leave a better world for future generations. Having been steeped in Jewish wisdom and community my whole life, I realized I could make the greatest impact as a climate organizer beginning within the Jewish community. I’m continually inspired by the people who come to this work from so many different backgrounds. Building a livable future requires a broad, diverse climate movement, and I’m honored to help grow that movement here in Colorado.”
2. One surprising thing people might not know about you or your work?
“Before founding Colorado Jewish Climate Action, I spent more than a decade in the academy in the field of cultural anthropology. I also served for several years as a cantor at a local synagogue. I draw on both my anthropological training and my love of music in my work as a climate organizer.”
3. If you could plant one seed for the future, what would it be?
“I believe cultural and spiritual climate solutions are essential. We must remember that we are not separate from nature, but deeply interconnected with it. In Hebrew, the word for human, Adam, shares a root with adamah, meaning soil. Humus—the rich organic layer of soil formed through the decomposition of plant and animal matter—offers a powerful parallel. Reflecting on the relationship between human (Adam) and humus (adamah) invites us to see ourselves as part of the ongoing regenerative cycles of birth, decomposition, decay, and rebirth. That perspective can ground a more humble, connected, and sustainable way of living.”
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CJCA is building a Jewish and interfaith climate movement in Colorado.
Curious to learn more? Explore their website here: https://www.coloradojewishclimateaction.org/