I met Melanie shortly after she became Jews for Racial an Economic Justice’s staff person. We were both speaking at Beth Am in Inwood; she on behalf of JFREJ and I on behalf of Parents Coalition for Education. It was amazing and inspiring to listen to her—it was also the first time I’d heard of JFREJ, and listening to her was a wonderful introduction.
In the years since I have continued to be inspired by her, both in person and through her writings. I feel immeasurably privileged to have known and worked with her. I go back and reread things she has written and each time they are as fresh as the first time. I will miss her greatly but she will also continue always to be present in so many ways.
—Jon Moscow, JFREJ/JVP