A reform movement is a group of people who come together to try to improve something they think is wrong or unfair. These movements often arise in response to social, political, or economic injustices. They are also sometimes motivated by religious beliefs, such as the doctrine of predestination. In the nineteenth century, evangelical Christianity inspired multiple reform movements, including abolitionism, temperance, and women’s rights.
The idea behind a reform movement is that by convincing others, one person at a time, of the righteousness of their cause, they will inspire those around them to join them. This was the approach taken by many reformers, especially during the Second Great Awakening, when religious revivalist teachings emphasized personal morality and individual responsibility. Reformers would meet at loosely linked conventions, sharing their enthusiasms and political strategies, and jostling for leadership positions in the various causes.
A popular reform movement during this era was the antislavery movement. Its activists created national, state, and local organizations to promote their ideas and mobilize support for their cause. These groups promoted speakers, published pamphlets, and generally coordinated their efforts. They were often rent by factionalism, but they proved remarkably effective at arousing public conscience on the moral issues of the day.
The Reform movement includes Jewish-related organizations that seek to bring Judaism’s lessons into the world, through nurturing individuals, sustaining congregations, and empowering communities to foster innovation and community. Its institutions include synagogues, schools, youth groups, and other organizations. The Reform movement also embraces interfaith families, and strives to reach Jews-by-choice and children raised in non-Jewish homes, by encouraging them to celebrate their heritage through Jewish life.