LYNN — The Essex County Community Organization (ECCO) announced Friday that Rabbi Margie Klein Ronkin is the Lynn-based organization’s new executive director.
Klein Ronkin brings more than 15 years of experience, including serving as director of clergy and leadership development at ECCO for the past decade.
“I can speak personally to Rabbi Margie’s deep understanding of systems of oppression, as well as her incredible skill in uplifting and centering the voices of those directly affected by racial and economic injustice,” said the Rev. Andre K. Bennett. “I first met her many years ago when she invited me into ECCO’s work. I remember my first impression of her as a keen listener, a visionary, and persistent voice for liberation. It was those qualities that drew me toward greater involvement in ECCO.
“Over the years, I have been struck again and again by Rabbi Margie’s commitment to the leadership of people of color in our movement for justice. She believes in each leader’s power as an individual and in the just future that the ECCO community is building together across race, class and faith. And, she knows that we need all of us — people of color and white allies — if we are to win racial justice in our communities and our nation.”
ECCO said in a press release that Klein Ronkin has been the driving force behind many of its critical victories, which have included passing historic criminal-justice reform in Massachusetts, establishing a $15 minimum wage and passing a paid family leave bill.
Under her leadership, ECCO’s clergy caucus has thrived, the organization’s peer-to-peer fundraising has flourished, and its ranks of powerful leaders have grown more than it could have hoped for, the organization said.
“We are confident that Rabbi Margie is the ideal person to lead ECCO to new heights, and are grateful to each of you for your patience and trust through this process,” said Bennett. “I am excitedly looking forward to this new era in ECCO and our continued journey together as we work to create the beloved community.”
ECCO is a diverse network of congregations and organizations across the North Shore that are building relationships and power to put human dignity at the center of public life. It works together across race, class, and faith lines to ensure that residents can thrive, grow, and dream.
