Part of what contributes to the richness of any region is the diversity of stories, people, landscapes, cultures, and beliefs within it. Our founder, Jack Murdock, believed in the importance of honoring the stories and backgrounds that shape the people of the Pacific Northwest, and part of this work includes celebrating cultural and religious expressions and how they contribute to the common good.
Jewish American Heritage Month, celebrated across our nation since it was designated in 2006, has become one meaningful month to focus our attention and learning on the experiences, past and present, of our Jewish American communities. Our engagement this month should be the starting place for year-round curiosity and care. We are grateful that there are many nonprofit organizations across our region to equip us for meaningful engagement throughout the year. Here are just a few:
Based in Jewish community values, BB360 (expanded from B’nai B’rith Overnight Camp) inspires individual growth and enduring connection through youth-centered summer camps and year-round programs for all ages. BB360 is a nationally recognized leader in providing an inclusive place for those of all abilities to have fun and spread simcha (joy). Learn about their programming and find ways to connect on their website.
Home of the Anne Frank Human Rights Memorial in Boise, ID, Wassmuth Center for Human Rights seeks to promote respect for human dignity and diversity through education and to foster individual responsibility to work for justice and peace. From Kindness Camps to art contests to professional development to educational programs, the Center complements the lessons of the Anne Frank Memorial with opportunities for further exploration. Plan your own visit or learn more about their programming here.
Oregon Jewish Museum and Center for Holocaust Education (OJMCHE) explores the legacy of the Jewish experience in Oregon, teaches the universal lessons of the Holocaust, and provides opportunities for intercultural conversation. For OJMCHE, education is their activism against antisemitism and other forms of racism and bigotry, and they invite the public into that learning through a powerful museum experience and year-round programming in downtown Portland. Discover their upcoming events and plan your visit to the museum on their website.
Camp Solomon Schechter is another camp blending Jewish tradition and culture as the foundation of the camp experience. Located in the heart of the Puget Sound region, this camp offers accessible ways for those in Seattle to have the camp experience without traveling far. When camp isn’t in session, the facilities are used as a retreat center for local groups and the broader Jewish community. Find ways to engage yourself through family camp, adventure camp, and more.
The Holocaust Center for Humanity in Seattle teaches the lessons of the Holocaust, inspiring visitors of all ages to confront bigotry and indifference, promote human dignity, and take action. They work to build courageous communities by honoring the history, stories, and lessons of the Holocaust through education, events, field trips, museum visits, and community programs. See how you can visit and take action on their website.
While these are just a sampling of the ways we can all learn from and engage with our Jewish American communities, we are grateful for how each one honors the past to create a better future. We learn from you, honor you, celebrate you, and stand with you, this month and every month!
