The Dayton Jewish Observer, March 2025

Beth Jacob Congregation's Purim stained-glass window.

Biblical scholar Robert Alter leads Judaic symposium

Prof. Robert Alter, noted for his translation of the Hebrew Bible among his more than 20 books of criticism, translation, and commentary, will present two lectures about the Hebrew Bible for the 45th Ryterband Symposium in Judaic Studies, at Wright State University, Wednesday, March 26.

At 4 p.m., he'll discuss How to Read Biblical Narratives; his 7 p.m. lecture will be The Challenge of Translating the Bible.

accompanied by illuminating commentaries, capture both the artistry and intricacies of the original Hebrew Scriptures."

Alter is a professor in the graduate school and Emeritus Professor of Hebrew and Comparative Literature at the University of California at Berkeley, where he has taught since 1967.

Both sessions will be held in Discovery Room 163 at the Student Union and are free and open to the public.

Wright State Religion Prof. Mark Verman, who facilitates the annual Ryterband Symposium, describes Alter as one of the most widely renowned literary critics in the United States.

"His exquisite translations of the Tanakh (Hebrew Bible),

He has written extensively on literary aspects of the Bible, the European novel, contemporary American fiction, and modern Hebrew literature. His publications include The World of Biblical Literature (1992), Imagined Cities: Urban Experience and the Language of the Novel (2005), The Book of Psalms: A Translation with Commentary (2007), Pen of Iron: American Prose and the King James Bible (2010), The Art of Bib-

lical Poetry (1985), and The Art of Biblical Narrative (1981), which won the National Jewish Book Award for Jewish Thought. The Ryterband Symposium is a collaboration of Wright State University, the University of Dayton, and United Theological Seminary.

Parking at Wright State is available at the visitor lot across from the Student Union. For more information, contact Verman at mark.verman@wright. edu.

Reach for the Stars with Hadassah

Dr. Jack Bernstein will show images of his astrophotography when Dayton Hadassah presents its next program, Reach for the Stars, at 2 p.m., Sunday, March 23 at the Wright Memorial Public Library in Oakwood. Refreshments will be served. The library is located at 1776 Far Hills Ave., Oakwood. Registration for this free event is required by March 16 to hadassahdayton@gmail.com or 937-275-0227.

Doug

Prof. Robert Alter

Dr. Jack Bernstein

Astrophotography by Dr. Jack Bernstein

ADL, two legal firms, sue Blood Tribe hate group on behalf of Springfield for ‘campaign of harassment and intimidation’

By Marshall Weiss, The Observer

The Anti-Defamation League and two legal firms — Paul Weiss and Taft — filed a civil lawsuit on behalf of the city of Springfield, its elected officials, and several residents against the Blood Tribe White-supremacist hate group Feb. 6 in Dayton’s U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio.

According to the ADL, the suit seeks compensatory and punitive damages for “the campaign of harassment and intimidation they unleashed against the people and city of Springfield, Ohio beginning in July 2024.”

Specific incidents the lawsuit cites include the Blood Tribe’s Aug. 10, 2024 march in downtown Springfield with its members “waving swastika flags, brandishing weapons at residents, and yelling racial slurs.”

It also notes that after the march, the city received at least 33 bomb threats to locations such as elementary schools, hospitals, private homes, and government buildings.

Blood Tribe’s spate of actions in Springfield came in the wake of negative national media attention focused on the city’s soaring Haitian population — much of it from then Republican vice presidential candidate JD Vance’s stump speech references.

Baseless claims about Haitian immigrants in Springfield, according to NBC News, had already been circulating on right-wing social media platforms.

Both The Dayton Jewish Observer and Columbus Jewish News interviewed an eyewitness to the Aug. 10, 2024 march who said that when police were not watching the dozen Blood Tribe march-

ers, four of them aimed their rifles at her family in their car and at two cars in front of them as the four shouted, “Go the f— back to Africa!”

The lawsuit states that Blood Tribe engaged in and incited a campaign of harassment and intimidation “motivated by ethnic and racial hatred against those who supported Springfield’s Haitian community in the face of Defendants’ racist attacks.”

“It is unacceptable that outside extremists targeted and descended upon this city, sowing fear and attempting to halt the business and lives of an entire community,” said Steve Sheinberg, ADL chief legal officer, in ADL’s Feb. 6 press release about the lawsuit. “Their threats and haContinued on Page Four

Did you know that we are commanded to be happy on Purim? But how can we make ourselves be happy with so much sadness in the world, in our own backyard, among those we care about? An answer, I found, comes from Jerusalem-based author and blogger Ilana Kurshan. She writes that if Purim is about being happy, "then the mitzvot (commandments) of Purim must give some indication of what Judaism's conception of happiness is all about." Happiness, she writes, is about community. "All the mitzvot of Purim involve other people; they must be performed in a communal context." These mitzvot are matanot l’evyonim, giving to those in need; mishloach manot, sending gift baskets to friends; sharing in the seudah, the festive Purim meal; and listening to the public reading of the Megillah. "The Jewish conception of happiness, as we learn from the mitzvot of Purim," Kurshan explains, "is about surrounding yourself with other people, and involving yourself in their lives."

Marshall Weiss

Members of the Blood Tribe neo-Nazi hate group marching with assault rifles across from Springfield Police headquarters on N. Fountain Ave., Aug. 10, 2024.

Blood Tribe

Continued from Page Three

rassment are not just morally abhorrent, but also a clear interference with community members’ civil rights and the city of Springfield’s necessary work on behalf of its residents. We filed this lawsuit today to hold them accountable for the harm they have caused to this community.”

Springfield Mayor Rob Rue, the target of Blood Tribe harassment at his own home, according to the lawsuit, said in the release that the lawsuit sends a clear message “that hate, intimidation, and violence have no place in our community.”

The negative national attention about Springfield over the summer would come to a head Sept. 10, 2024, when then Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump made the false assertion during a prime-time presidential debate, “In Springfield, they're eating the dogs — the people that came in, they're eating the cats. They're eating — they're eating the pets of the people that live there and this is what's happening in our country, and it's a shame.”

Vance amplified that false claim on X the next morning.

Blood Tribe upped its harassment later that month.

The lawsuit states that a dozen Blood Tribe members congregated outside the mayor’s home on Sept. 28, 2024, led by Drake Berentz. Wearing masks and carrying swastika flags, they told Rue to “enjoy your peace now” and walked to City Hall, “where Berentz announced that ‘Springfield is property of Blood Tribe’ and that ‘we are ready to face the enemies of the American people in the streets, until the problem is dealt with.'”

led its

supported the Haitian community and sent those residents suspicious packages intended to look like bombs, “left harassing voice mails, sent hateful emails, demeaned the residents and their families on social media platforms, used dating apps to send men looking for drugs and sex to their homes late at night, and publicized their personal information, such as their telephone numbers, email addresses, and home and work addresses, all the while actively encouraging others to harass and intimidate them.”

Those who brought the lawsuit seek a jury trial on nine counts: conspiracy to violate civil rights; failure to prevent interference with civil rights; public nuisance; telecommunications harassment; menace; incitement to violence; ethnic intimidation; conspiracy; and intentional infliction of emotional distress.

DAYTON

Editor and Publisher Marshall Weiss mweiss@jfgd.net 937-610-1555

Contributors

Martin Gottlieb, Candace R. Kwiatek, Rabbi Nochum Mangel

Advertising Sales Executive Patty Caruso, plhc69@gmail.com

Administrative Assistant Samantha Daniel, sdaniel@jfgd.net 937-610-1555

Billing Sheila Myers, smyers@jfgd.net 937-610-1555

Proofreaders

Linda Brotkin, Rachel Haug Gilbert, Steven H. Solomon

Observer Advisor Martin Gottlieb

Published by the Jewish Federation of Greater Dayton

Dan Sweeny President Marni Flagel President Elect Meredith Levinson Secretary Neil Friedman Treasurer Ben Mazer VP Personnel

Teddy Goldenberg VP Resource Dev.

Mary Rita Weissman Immed. Past Pres. Cathy Gardner CEO

The Dayton Jewish Observer, Vol. 29, No. 6. The Dayton Jewish Observer is published monthly by the Jewish Federation of Greater Dayton, a nonprofit corporation, 525 Versailles Dr., Dayton, OH 45459.

wireless hotspots, streaming services, adaptive technology, and more. Learn more at DaytonMetroLibrary.org or by calling the Ask Me Desk at 937.463.2665.

According to the ADL, Blood Tribe is a neo-Nazi group with semi-autonomous chapters in the United States and Canada. It was formed online in 2021 and started showing up at anti-LGBTQ+ events in 2023. Blood Tribe champions “hard-line White supremacist views and openly directs its vitriol at Jews, ‘non-Whites,’ and the LGBTQ+ community.”

The lawsuit notes that Blood Tribe identified Springfield residents who

The lawsuit names Blood Tribe founder Christopher Alan Pohlhaus, and Blood Tribe leader Drake Berentz, whom Rue ejected from an Aug. 27, 2024 city commission meeting during public comments when Berentz said, “I’ve come to bring a word of warning. Stop what you’re doing, before it’s too late. Crime and savagery will only increase with every Haitian you bring in.” The suit identifies Berentz as the leader of the Aug. 10, 2024 march, which Berentz also stated at the city commission meeting.

Also named are seven “John Does” who have harassed Springfield residents.

American Jewish humor & survival topic of UC scholar's talk at UD

University of Cincinnati Associate Prof. and Jewish Foundation of Cincinnati Chair in Judaic Studies Jennifer Caplan will present the talk, No Joke: Jewish Humor and the Survival of American Judaism, at 5 p.m., Monday, March 3, at University of Dayton's Sears Recital Hall in the Jesse Philips Humanities Center. A scholar of American Judaism and popular culture, Caplan is the author of Funny, You Don't Look Funny: Judaism and Humor from the Silent Generation to Millennials. The talk is free and open to the public. Visitor parking is available at Lot C. For more information, contact UD Religious Studies Assistant Prof. Abraham Rubin at arubin1@udayton.edu.

Views expressed by columnists, in readers’ letters, and in opinion pieces do not necessarily reflect the opinion of staff or layleaders of The Dayton Jewish Observer or the Jewish Federation of Greater Dayton. Acceptance of advertising neither endorses advertisers nor guarantees kashrut.

The Dayton Jewish Observer Mission Statement To support, strengthen and champion the Dayton Jewish community by providing a forum and resource for Jewish community interests.

Goals

• To encourage affiliation, involvement and communication.

• To provide announcements, news, opinions and analysis of local, national and international activities and issues affecting Jews and the Jewish community.

• To build community across institutional, organizational and denominational lines.

• To advance causes important to the strength of our Jewish community including support of Federation agencies, its annual campaign, synagogue affiliation, Jewish education and participation in Jewish and general community affairs.

• To provide an historic record of Dayton Jewish life.

Blood Tribe leader Drake Berentz, who says he

Aug. 10, 2024 march in Springfield, speaks at a Springfield City Commission meeting, Aug. 27, 2024.

City of Springfield

Springfield Mayor Rob Rue

Assoc. Prof. Jennifer Caplan

Neo-Nazis wave swastika flags and antisemitic banner on I-75 overpass

By Sam Fisher cincyjewfolk.com

Around a dozen neo-Nazis demonstrators displayed swastika-emblazoned flags on an I-75 overpass between Lincoln Heights and Evendale near Cincinnati on Feb. 7. The neo-Nazis wore balaclavas and red masks. Many were armed, and some openly carried AR15-style assault rifles.

The group also had a banner that read “America is for the White Man,” and featured antisemitic imagery.

“Messages of hate like this have no place in our region,” said Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval on X. “It was shocking and disgusting to see swastikas displayed in Evendale today. This is not what we stand for, and it will never be what we stand for.”

According to Hamilton County dispatch, officers were on the scene to “keep the

peace.” Members of the Lincoln Heights community gathered on the sidewalks around the neo-Nazis. At about 3 p.m., as the neo-Nazis began packing up into a U-Haul to leave, approximately 20 counterprotestors broke through the police security barricades and rushed the neo-Nazis.

In videos posted to social media, community members of Lincoln Heights can be seen burning a swastika flag.

“Acts of antisemitism and racism and bigotry are an affront to all of our values, the values of humanity, inclusivity, and respect that defines our Cincinnati community,” said Cincinnati Jewish Federation CEO Danielle Minson.

White supremacist and neo-Nazi activity has been on the rise around the country and in Ohio over the past two years. In 2024, a group marched through Columbus carrying

demonstrators on an

similar swastika flags. And the city of Springfield has been the target of neo-Nazis with Blood Tribe, who have marched and attempted to intimidate the Springfield City Council and Haitian immigrants. The KKK and other White supremacist groups have repeatedly spread

A Place For Friendship At Bethany Village

At Bethany Village, residents like Mary nd connection, comfort, and community every day. Whether it's learning to embrace life's changes together or lending a helping hand, our community is built on trust and care. Discover a life enriched by friendship, wellness, and purpose at Bethany Village.

Scan the QR code to see how residents like Mary find purpose, joy, and support at Bethany Village — where aging is a journey shared together.

(937) 731-3900

BethanyLutheranVillage.org/neighbors

antisemitic and racist fliers in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky.

According to the Anti-Defamation League, White supremacist incidents have been rising yearly since 2022. The ADL recorded a spike in incidents in the final two months of 2024.

“We will not be intimidated,” Minson emphasized in her statement. “Our response to hate is to reaffirm our commitment to strengthening community bonds, advancing education, and advocating for a society free of antisemitism and all forms of hate and bigotry.”

Neo-Nazi

I-75 overpass between Evendale and Lincoln Heights, Feb. 7.

Survivors who wrestled with their conversions to Christianity form basis of UD assistant professor's first book

By Marshall Weiss

The Observer

University of Dayton Religious Studies Assistant Prof. Abraham Rubin's first book release brought him to New York for a Feb. 3 lecture at the Center for Jewish History sponsored by the Leo Baeck Institute for the Study of GermanJewish History and Culture.

In Conversion and Catastrophe in German-Jewish Émigré Autobiography, published by University of Toronto Press in association with the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, Rubin profiles four German Jewish Holocaust survivors — all men of letters — who converted to Christianity after they were out of harm's way.

For the rest of their lives,

however, they felt compelled to recount and justify how and why they became Christians. "They were out of reach of the Nazis, and they still decided to convert," Rubin says. "The question is why they decided to do it, and how they tried to frame that story to multiple audiences, because they knew this was a very controversial move to make in the wake of the Shoah, where you're considered a traitor to your people."

Rubin, who arrived at the University of Dayton in 2022, says his book digs into their published and unpublished conversion narratives.

"A lot of the times, they say, 'Well, this conversion has allowed me to become a better Jew,' which is a very familiar story to Christianity. That's

essentially the basic narrative of Christianity. It's called supersessionism or replacement theology: that the Mosaic revelation has been surpassed with the coming of Jesus."

He says their conversions were a way to distance themselves from their stigmatized, persecuted identities as Jews.

"You think of these people as standing outside the fold of Jewish history," Rubin says. "What do they have to do with us? They no longer identify as Jews. And the answer is, they have a very intense and ongoing dialogue with other paths that Jews in the modern era have taken. And part of their own attempt to justify their own religious choices is by debunking other alternatives.

"One of the things that comes up again and again in all of these stories is the vilification of other Jews. Sometimes there are these very shocking passages."

One figure Rubin profiles, Karl Jakob Hirsch — a greatgrandson of Rabbi Samson

Raphael Hirsch of Frankfurt — wrote in 1946 that the Holocaust was a punishment, the Jews' path from the crucifixion of Jesus in Golgotha to Auschwitz.

Rubin says Hirsch's message was well-received when it was published in immediate postwar West Germany.

"It's kind of a theological gloss on the Shoah that appeals to the German audiences."

Hirsch and the other three, Rubin says, thought they might find common ground with their former German audiences, at least by embracing their faith. They didn't succeed.

In their post-conversion writings, all were critical of their parents' liberal Judaism, the Judaism common in Germany in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Rubin adds.

"Many times they present their own embrace of the Christian faith as a more authentic Jewishness than their parents'."

Rubin, who was raised in Haifa, Israel, specializes in Ger-

man Jewish thought.

"German Jews in the 20th century are constantly trying to make sense of, how do we define our Jewishness, how do we understand ourselves as Jews, as Germans? I was just fascinated by how this drama unfolds and continues after 1933, even in cases where Jews are no longer self-identified as Jews. Some of these very central questions of German Jewry continue to unfold in the German Jewish diaspora."

ShushOz!

Assistant Prof. Abraham Rubin

Israeli Diaspora minister tells US Jewish leaders he opposes advancing ceasefire and hostage deal

Israel is currently negotiating the second stage of the ceasefire, in which all remaining living Israeli hostages are meant to be released while Israel fully withdraws from Gaza.

By Ben Sales, JTA Israeli Diaspora Minister

Amichai Chikli told a gathering of American Jewish leaders Feb. 16 that he will vote against future stages of the IsraelHamas ceasefire deal.

Israel is currently negotiating the second stage of the ceasefire, in which all remaining living Israeli hostages are meant to be released while Israel fully withdraws from Gaza. On Feb. 17, negotiators were due to begin discussions of how to implement the second stage, which would begin in early March.

Polls show most Israelis want the deal to advance to the second stage.

Likud party to vote against the first phase of the deal, which began in January and has so far seen 24 hostages released in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian security prisoners.

“I will oppose the second stage of the deal in the government, just like I did the first,” he said, according to reports.

“I cannot vote in favor of the next victims—whether in Gush Etzion, Megiddo, Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Afula or anywhere else.”

'I cannot vote in favor of the next victims — whether in Gush Etzion, Megiddo, Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Afula or anywhere else.'

But Chikli told a delegation from the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations that he opposes extending the deal because Israel would release hundreds of Palestinian security prisoners in exchange for the hostages.

Chikli was one of two ministers in Netanyahu’s

Chikli did not answer follow-up questions about the deal from the gathering, many of whose members have placed the release of the hostages front-andcenter in their activism following Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023 attack.

In its own statement upon the deal’s onset, The Conference of Presidents said it “welcomed” the agreement and called it “just the beginning of a process that will hopefully bring home all of the hostages.”

It added, “We understand their release comes at a high price and with that brings uncertainty for Israel.”

A letter from the Israeli-led group UnXeptable, which opposes the policies of Israel’s current government, had petitioned the conference against inviting Chikli to speak.

After the speech, Amy Spitalnick, CEO of the liberal Jewish Council on Public Affairs, who was present at the speech, said, “Opposition to a hostage deal that is supported by the vast majority of Israelis and Jews puts the hostages’ lives even further at risk.”

Chikli also reportedly praised European far-right parties and their anti-immigration stances.

It is unclear whether the second stage of the ceasefire will take effect. The first stage nearly collapsed in mid-February after dueling statements from Hamas, Israel and the United States, though it ended up proceeding as planned, with the release of three Israeli hostages and hundreds of Palestinian security prisoners on Feb. 16.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also come

out in support of President Donald Trump’s plan for the United States to depopulate and then take over Gaza.

“Just as I have committed to, on the day after the war in Gaza, there will be neither Hamas nor the Palestinian Authority,” Netanyahu said in a statement on Feb. 17. “I am committed to U.S. President Trump’s plan for the creation of a different Gaza.”

But Steve Witkoff, Trump’s Middle East envoy, projected confidence, saying that “phase two is absolutely going to begin.”

Israeli Minister of Diaspora Affairs

Amichai Chikli

Miriam Alster/FLASH90

34 liberal Jewish groups sign statement defending DEI as an ‘invaluable tool’

Statement comes at a time when DEI is under fire from the Trump administration and within some Jewish communities.

By Ben Sales, JTA

Dozens of liberal Jewish groups have signed a letter defending Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives at a time when such efforts are under fire from the Trump administration, and after some Jews have accused DEI programs

of fueling antisemitism.

“Jewish tradition teaches of the Divine spark in every person,” the statement begins. “As Jewish groups that are committed to protecting and advancing the safety and security of our community, we know we have an invaluable

tool to leverage: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives.”

The statement, led by the Union for Reform Judaism, Jewish Council for Public Affairs and National Council of Jewish Women, is the latest by a coalition of Jewish groups vocally opposing signature Trump administration policies.

It follows letters against his immigra-

tion crackdowns and against the barring of transgender girls from women’s sports.

The letter says DEI is an outgrowth of the civil rights movement and of fights against the institutionalized American antisemitism of the mid-20th century. And it pointed to federal agencies canceling Holocaust remembrance activities in order to accord with a ban on DEI programs.

“All these achievements, now regarded with nearly universal pride, were and are about making our communities equally inclusive for all, for the benefit of all,” the statement says. “Why? Because people and society overall are stronger when arbitrary barriers to participation are removed.”

The statement also acknowledges that opposition to DEI isn’t limited to conservatives.

Since Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023 attack on Israel, some Jews have argued repeatedly that DEI is to blame for the widespread protests against Israel on campus.

For example, the journalist Dara Horn wrote that DEI targets “people in our society (who) have too much power and too much privilege” — which plays into antisemitic tropes about Jews wielding too much control.

But the statement says Jews should not give up on DEI, including because doing so would put LGBTQ Jews or Jews of color at risk.

“Some Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion champions have spoken or acted in ways that have caused us pain, including through overt expressions of antisemitism, and others have shared visions of the future that differ from our own,” it said, adding, “It is for each of us to do the work of opening the doors of opportunity for all. It is not only possible, but necessary, to advance Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts in a way that is truly inclusive of Jewish safety, identities, and history.”

In addition to the lead signatories, the letter was signed by groups including Bend the Arc: Jewish Action, Reconstructing Judaism and T’ruah: The Rabbinic Call for Human Rights.

Hebrew Union College’s NY campus will relocate to Upper West Side

By Jackie Hajdenberg

New York Jewish Week

Following the $75 million sale of its building in Greenwich Village, Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, the Reform movement’s rabbinical seminary and leading educational institution, will relocate to the Upper West Side.

HUC sold its longtime downtown building to New York University, which already owns more than 70 buildings in the Greenwich Village area. On Feb. 7, HUC revealed it has purchased 56 West 66th Street, the former First Battery Armory.

HUC purchased the landmarked building — which was previously owned by the American Broadcasting Company — for $32 million, according to a spokesperson. The back-toback transactions will yield the seminary approximately $43.5 million, which president Andrew Rehfeld said will go toward renovating the uptown building as well as toward an endowment for scholarships.

ly 60% of the size of our current building,” Rehfeld said. “It allows us to operate a smaller facility that’s more appropriate to our needs and really serve our students, faculty and staff much better with a state-of-theart facility that is in an exciting location.”

The Upper West Side building — built between 1901 and 1904 and used as an armory for the First Battery of the New York National Guard — was converted to a television studio in the 1970s, and then into an office building in 2012.

Rehfeld attributes the need for a smaller campus to HUC-JIR'S dwindling enrollment

Following renovations, the building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, “will be reconfigured to include state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure for in-person and hybrid learning, as well as a library, beit midrash (house of study), and areas for prayer, community events, and exhibitions,” HUCJIR said in a statement.

“The new building is rough-

The relocation is also “a homecoming of sorts,” according to the statement, as it is mere blocks away from where the Jewish Institute of Religion

Professor Robert Alter

Professor in the Graduate School & Emeritus Professor of Hebrew & Comparative Literature, University of California at Berkeley.

45th Annual Ryterband Symposium in Judaic Studies

Wednesday, March 26

Wright State University Student Union Discovery Room 163

had its original home on West 68th Street. HUC and JIR, “a pluralistic institution of higher Jewish learning,” merged in 1950; HUC-JIR has occupied its West 4th St. location, adjacent to NYU, since 1979.

The spruced-up new digs will make “a statement about who we are and the importance of our work to everyone who just walks in,” Rehfeld said.

For now, Hebrew Union College will remain at its current Greenwich Village location until 2027, when renovations uptown are expected to be complete. Even after it relocates uptown, collaboration between HUC and NYU — such as reciprocal course registration and library privileges — will continue.

In 2022, HUC-JIR began phasing out the rabbinical ordination program at its original Cincinnati campus. The following year, the seminary announced it would discontinue four other academic programs: the doctoral and master’s degree programs in Jewish studies based in Cincinnati; the doctoral program in interfaith ministry in New York; and the master’s program in educational leadership in Los Angeles. At the time, Rehfeld cited “finan-

cial constraints” and declining enrollment as the reason.

Rehfeld attributes the need for a smaller campus to HUCJIR’s dwindling enrollment size — there are currently 44 students enrolled in the New York rabbinical program. (Between 2007 and 2022, enrollment at HUC’s three American campuses fell by 37%, with the largest drop, 60%, in Cincinnati.) This downward trend is not

unique to the Reform rabbinate — the Conservative movement has seen a decline in rabbinic school enrollment as well. At the same time, Rehfeld said the school has seen significant growth in its online programs, such as the executive master’s program in Jewish education and in the virtual rabbinical pathway, the latter of which currently has 10 students.

One of this country’s most widely renowned literary critics, Prof. Robert Alter has published more than two dozen books on European and Hebrew Literature.

His exquisite translations of the Tanakh, accompanied by illuminating commentaries, capture both the artistry and intricacies of the original Hebrew Scriptures.

4 pm: How to Read Biblical Narratives 7 pm: The Challenge of Translating the Bible

A collaboration of Wright State University, The University of Dayton, United Theological Seminary. Both presentations are free & open to the public Visitor parking lot across from Student Union.

For additional information, contact Prof. Mark Verman at mark.verman@wright.edu.

HUC-JIR's new campus, at West 66th St.

HUC-JIR

Events at Temple Israel

3 Jewish denominations suing Trump admin. over ICE raids

Three Jewish religious denominations are suing the Department of Homeland Security to stop immigration raids at houses of worship.

The suit, filed Feb. 11 in federal court in Washington, D.C., was brought by dozens of religious groups including the governing bodies of the Reform, Conservative, and Reconstructionist movements.

The other groups represent a range of Christian denominations. They are challenging the Trump administration’s reversal of an order that prohibited Immigration and Customs Enforcement from operating in “sensitive locations” such as churches and synagogues.

The order means that undocumented immigrants fearing arrest can no longer seek sanctuary at houses of worship. The lawsuit hopes to restore the “sensitive locations” policy.

with their religious activities and their ability to fulfill their religious mandate to welcome and serve immigrants.”

During Trump’s first term, a number of synagogues sheltered immigrants at risk of deportation, and a broad range of Jewish groups spoke out or took action against his immigration restrictions.

Some of those coalitions are mobilizing now, as Trump places a broad immigration crackdown at the center of his agenda. The lawsuit follows a letter signed by dozens of groups — including the leadership of the same three movements — opposing Trump’s planned mass deportations.

'Throughout Jewish history, we have known the hardship and persecution of living as immigrants.'

“The new policy thus greenlights enforcement actions that could interrupt religious services in furtherance of the Administration’s mass deportation plans,” reads a press release about the lawsuit, which was filed by Georgetown University’s Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection.

Through the order, the statement added, “the government is interfering

“Throughout Jewish history, we have known the hardship and persecution of living as immigrants,” Rabbi Rick Jacobs, who helms the Union for Reform Judaism, said in a statement. “We are inspired by those experiences across the generations, as well as the repeated biblical commandment to welcome the stranger, to ensure that our congregations remain places where immigrants — including those who may be undocumented — can enter to worship, seek pastoral counsel, learn, socialize, obtain needed services and support, or to act as caregivers for those who do.”

— Ben Sales, JTA

HIAS sues Donald Trump over refugee freeze

HIAS, the Jewish refugee aid and advocacy group, is suing President Donald Trump over his freeze on refugee admissions.

and breaks regulations.

The lawsuit, announced on Feb. 10, is a return to the group’s playbook during Trump’s first term, when HIAS took the Trump administration to court over its 2017 travel ban, temporarily delaying its implementation.

This time, HIAS joined with two other refugee resettlement organizations — Church World Service and Lutheran Community Services Northwest — to challenge a Trump executive order indefinitely suspending refugee resettlement, as well as its freeze on funding for refugees.

The suit argues that the executive order illegally violates Congress’ authority to make laws concerning immigration

The groups, which assist the government with resettling refugees and have seen their funding for resettlement cut, are joined in the suit by individual refugees who had their resettlement or travel disrupted by the executive order.

The suit was filed in federal district court in Seattle by the International Refugee Assistance Project.

“The American Jewish community owes its very existence to those times when the United States opened its doors to refugees fleeing anti-Semitism and persecution,” HIAS President Mark Hetfield said in a statement.

“The American Jewish community knows the heart of the refugees, for we were once refugees ourselves. Today, Trump has even slammed the door in the face of Christians, Jews and Baha’i fleeing Iran, as well as refugees from everywhere else.”

— Ben Sales, JTA

HIAS CEO Mark Hetfield

THE NATION

Kanye’s swastika shirt inspires flurry of defiant Jewish spinoffs

Now for sale: mugs with the logo from the antiKanye celebrity deepfake.

By Philissa Cramer & Ben Sales, JTA

Kanye "Ye" West’s swastika shirt is no longer for sale, after the e-commerce platform Shopify said Feb. 11, amid an outcry, that he had violated its terms of service.

But a wide array of shirts responding to the musician’s antisemitic merchandise are now available — and being offered to Jews who want to wear a riff on West’s design as an act of defiance.

Alongside the slogan “Hate is Out of Fashion,” The Israeli American Council is selling a version with the swastika replaced by a simple black Star of David, undercutting Yeezy’s price of $20 by two dollars to land on the Jewishly meaningful price of $18.

“In response to Kanye West’s despicable attempt to capitalize on his hatred, our creative campaign mirrors his twisted fashion but instead promotes a positive message of pride, philosemitism, and American values,” the group’s CEO, Elan Carr, a former U.S. special envoy to monitor and combat antisemitism, said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Melissa Felderman, a Colorado artist who sells ceramics including Judaica under the brand Feldi Studios, is offering a $30 shirt featuring the blackand-white logo of the Orthodox Union, which is also the most widespread kosher certification.

“I can make a shirt too,” Felderman wrote on Instagram, announcing the shirt and her intention to donate 10% of proceeds to charities fighting antisemitism.

And a new website, StandUpToKanye. com, popped up to sell an array of items — including sweatshirts, bags and stickers — with a logo similar to one in a viral deepfake video responding to West that showed Jewish celebrities wearing shirts with a raised middle finger, the word “Kanye” and a Jewish star.

“We didn’t create the video, but we liked the idea behind it, so we decided to bring the t-shirt to life, with our own unique spin on it,” the website says. An email sent to the address listed on the site bounced back.

The site says 50% of proceeds will go to Zachor, a foundation created by a Holocaust survivor to advance Holocaust remembrance.

“So, we hope, what we believe was

an attempt to spread hatred will lead to more education around the atrocities committed by the Nazis, through educational programs, outreach, and online resources to preserve the memory of the Holocaust,” the website says.

Like the shirts in the anti-Kanye video, each shirt sold on that site is being printed on demand, as people buy them.

Shortly after he aired a Super Bowl commercial for a website selling a swastika T-shirt, and two days after posting an antisemitic rant on X, West announced that he was quitting the platform. A week later, he was back — and tweeting about Jews again. “I am not under Jewish control anymore,” he wrote Feb. 17. He also wrote, “There’s (a) lot of Jewish people I know and love and still work with.”

By Feb. 18, all the tweets had been deleted. But in the stream of all-caps posts the previous day, West defended selling white shirts featuring a black swastika on his website and wrote that “a few specific Jews not the entire race for crying out loud but a few specific Jews came together and did everything they could to destroy me.” He added that he was “not playing victim just refreshing everyones memory.”

West also wrote that after the e-commerce company Shopify stopped working with his site to sell the swastika shirt, no one else had agreed to sell it.

He also defended the swastika — widely recognized in the Western world as the emblem of the Nazis — because it has historically been a feature of Indian and other Asian religions.

“I remember going to Japan and gasping when I saw what is known as the swastika on clothing,” he wrote in all-caps. “It felt illegal to even look at it thats how I had been programmed.”

He added, “I then found out that swastika had many different meanings and many different names.”

West has been one of the most vocal, prominent purveyors of antisemitic invective since October 2022. At present, his online store displays a message saying, “coming soon,” with a heart symbol.

At least three purveyors of Kanye West-inspired Jewishwear have emerged in the days following the rapper's swastika shirt brouhaha.

JTA

I liked the AI Jewsagainst-Kanye video. And we should all be terrified of it.

By Rabbi Jeffrey Salkin

I was drawn to the video, too. Seeing celebrities like Jerry Seinfeld and Mike Bloomberg channel my rage and give a middle finger to Kanye West after his most recent antisemitic spree, which included selling a swastika shirt the video riffed on, gave me hope and made me feel less alone at a scary time.

I was also heartened to see some Jewish celebrities who have not previously spoken out against antisemitism doing so for the first time.

But it wasn’t real. The video was made by an Israeli hightech entrepreneur using AI — which means that it revealed far more about its viewers than anyone who appeared in it.

And what it revealed is that our willingness as Jews to suspend disbelief offers evidence of our enduring hope — and a stark warning sign about a new danger that we face today.

Ever since Oct. 7, 2023, and even before, the Jews have understood what the prophet Balaam said in the book of Numbers: “This is a people that dwells alone.” Jews have felt a deep sense of isolation and despair. Their hearts have been broken, and so they wear those hearts on their sleeves.

No wonder Jews are loving and sharing the video. We want to believe that we stand up for ourselves. We want to believe that famous people care about us.

But, in fact, many in the entertainment industry have been silent since Oct. 7. The video, therefore, is not real, but it is a prayer: If only these famous people would use their massive social capital, and speak out.

We are free to love it and share it, waving aside the fact that it is a fiction, but we do so at our own peril. The video is dangerous. It could easily play into the hands of antisemites, who will accuse Jews of falsifying public proclamations of support.

Moreover, if AI could create a video that supports the Jews, it could just as easily create videos that defame the Jews, that offer fake video evidence of Israeli actions in the West Bank, as well as Jewish perfidy in other places. We would find ourselves embroiled in AI-induced blood libels.

Consider what havoc this could wreak with Holocaust memory; I shudder to think of how antisemites and Holocaust-deniers could manipulate the image of Anne Frank. Or, how they could manipulate images and videos of rabbis. This is the ethical category of genevat daat, deception — literally, “stealing the mind.” The collective mind won’t know what hit it.

And this is the deeper challenge: AI is making it increasingly impossible to know what is real. Chat GPT is making it increasingly impossible to know who (or what) wrote anything. This is a universal challenge, and it is an existential issue of the first order.

So, yes, of course. “Enough is enough” — of the war against the Jews. But, also, “enough is enough” — of the war against truth. AI is a principal weapon in that war, and we will all be its casualties.

When reality itself becomes infinitely malleable; when we can no longer trust our senses; when anyone can invent any narrative of the past, present and presumably future, and produce computer-generated “evidence” of that false narrative — we will have lost civilization itself.

At that point, antisemitism will be among the least of our problems.

Rabbi Jeffrey Salkin is the co-founder/co-director of Wisdom Without Walls: an online salon for Jewish ideas. Distributed by JTA.

So, what do you think?

OPINION

Are charter schools public schools?

Supreme Court case could open the door to publicly funded Jewish day schools

By Michael A. Helfand

In January, the Supreme Court agreed to weigh in on the constitutionality of Oklahoma’s St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School — what would be the country’s first religious charter school. The case has all the hallmarks of a blockbuster church-state case, addressing the constitutionality of publicly funded religious education and potentially opening the door to tuition-free Jewish day schools.

But the crux of the case comes down to which path the court will pick when facing a constitutional fork in the road: Should charter schools — which are publicly authorized and funded, but privately operated — be considered public schools or private schools? This question has divided educators for decades, ever since charter schools were developed as a strategy to improve public education.

For the Supreme Court in the Oklahoma case, its answer makes all the difference. A religious public school is likely a constitutional non-starter — even for a court like this one has shown a willingness to shift the borders of church-state separation. But under longstanding precedent, a religious private school is entitled to receive funding equal to its nonreligious private school counterparts.

In 2023, Oklahoma’s Charter School Board voted to approve St. Isidore’s application to become a charter school. Gentner Drummond, Oklahoma’s attorney general, described the decision as “unconstitutional,” and a “serious threat to the religious liberty of all four million Oklahomans.” The Oklahoma constitution requires the state to establish and maintain a public school system “free from sectarian control.” Oklahoma law defines charter schools as public schools. Therefore, Drummond concluded, Oklahoma law forbids the creation of a religious charter school.

In his view, the First Amendment — and its prohibition against state establishment of religion — prohibits Oklahoma from doing otherwise. And so Drummond filed suit to undo the Charter School Board’s decision. (He also noted that allowing religious charter schools could result in ones that he said Oklahomans would find “reprehensible,” like schools associated with “radical Islam.”)

Notwithstanding its superficial appeal, the argument moves too quickly. It may be true that Oklahoma law calls charter schools public schools. But for constitutional purposes, the relevant legal question is whether the St. Isidore’s conduct is attributable to the state. And here the structure of a charter school makes the inquiry quite messy. On the one hand, charter schools are authorized by the state. On the other hand, they are operated by private entities. So which is it?

In these sorts of circumstances, constitutional law has its own doctrine — called the state action doctrine — that determines whether an entity is public or private. But the doctrine has proven complex and unpredictable. Over the years, the court has advanced a litany of tests and considerations to figure out the answer to these questions. Lower courts applying these tests, as a result, have been a bit all over the map. Addressing the facts of this case, the Oklahoma Supreme Court agreed with Drummond, concluding that St. Isidore ought to be

considered a “state actor” because it was performing an “exclusive state function” — the free public education of the state’s citizens.

But St. Isidore has argued that the Supreme Court should, instead, focus on the state’s minimal control over the decisions and operations of charter schools. And because there is a lack of meaningful oversight over charter schools — the state has not “compelled or influenced” St. Isidore’s decision — St. Isidore should be considered a private school, irrespective of whether the state has defined charter schools as public schools, according to its argument. States cannot by legislative fiat circumvent the court’s constitutional rules for who is and isn’t a state actor — or so the argument goes. This is why the Oklahoma attorney general immediately preceding Drummond concluded that, for constitutional purposes, Oklahoma charter schools should not be considered state actors.

Once the court decides whether St. Isidore is a public school or a private school — or, more precisely, whether it is a state actor for constitutional purposes — the rest of the court’s decision naturally follows. If charter schools are public schools, then operating a religious charter school such as St. Isidore likely violates the First Amendment as a state establishment of religion.

While it is true that the Supreme Court has of late increasingly expanded the scope of permissible church-state interaction, a religious public school is likely a bridge too far. Pervasive religious instruction would likely trigger the First Amendment’s prohibition against religious coercion.

On the other hand, if the court concludes that St. Isidore’s is a private school, then rescinding its charter on account of it being a religious school would likely constitute religious discrimination prohibited by the First Amendment. Over the past decade, the Supreme Court has reiterated on three separate occasions that government cannot exclude religious institutions from funding programs available to all other comparable private institutions. As a result, Oklahoma would be prohibited from categorically excluding St. Isidore — and all other religious charter schools — while continuing to authorize nonreligious charter schools.

The court’s decision to hear the case has led many to assume that it plans to overrule the Oklahoma Supreme Court, which implies that the court does not see St. Isidore’s as a state actor. And if so, then the court would require Oklahoma to reaffirm the Charter School Board’s decision to create the country’s first religious charter school.

That being said, there may be reason to think such a decision would not open up the floodgates for religious charter schools. States continue to impose a range of regulations on religious charter schools. Those typically include, for example, a prohibition against restricting admission. So, for example, a Jewish day school that hopes to only admit Jewish students is unlikely to apply to become a charter school.

At the same time, a decision in favor of St. Isidore that reiterated the constitutional prohibition against excluding religious institutions from government funding programs available to private institutions could have significant impact. While the Supreme Court has reiterated this principle on multiple occasions, states continue to operate programs that retain religious exclusions. In the past Continued on Page 26

March 2025

UPCOMING EVENTS

SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 9:15AM - 12:15PM Global Day of Unplugging

SUNDAY, MARCH 2, 2 - 4PM JCC Boomers Bowl

SUNDAY, MARCH 9, 4 - 6PM CABS – Rachel Gordin Barnett & Lyssa Kligman Harvey, Kugels and Collards: Stories of Food, Family, and Tradition in Jewish South Carolina

THURSDAY, MARCH 13, 6 - 9PM PURIM for Young Adults

THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 6 - 9PM A Women’s Freedom Seder – Our Journey from Slavery to Strength

SUNDAY, MARCH 30, 7 - 9PM

CABS – Philip Eil, Prescription for Pain: How a Once Promising Doctor Became the “Pill Mill Killer”

Connect with us! Check out our events. For more information, check out our calendar at jewishdayton.org

Global Day of Unplugging

Sunday, March 2, 9:15AM – 12:15PM Beth Abraham Synagogue 305 Sugar Camp Cir, Dayton, 45409

Join our community religious schools, Hillel Academy students and PJ library families as we come together for a day of experiencing life without technology. We will celebrate ways of connection and the concept of rest in our modern society for this learning experience about Shabbat.

SHARING YOUR JOY @ PASSOVER

Do you have a favorite photo of nature that brings you joy? Share that joy with others! You can submit your photos to Jewish Family Services. We will use them to create Passover cards as part of our holiday outreach. Email photos to Jacquelyn Archie at jarchie@jfgd.net by March 21.

March 2025

UPCOMING EVENTS

Sunday, March 9 at 4PM

Beth Abraham Synagogue

305 Sugar Camp Circle, Oakwood, 45409

Cost: $10

FEATURING a sampling of the authors’ recipes

Books available for purchase and book signing at event

In partnership with Beth Abraham Sisterhood

Rachel Gordin Barnett & Lyssa Kligman Harvey, Kugels and Collards: Stories of Food, Family, and Tradition in Jewish South Carolina

This is a unique and heartwarming exploration of the intertwined culinary and cultural traditions of African American and Jewish communities in the American South. The book is a collection of stories and recipes that highlight the rich, shared history and mutual influences between these two groups. Harvey and Barnett delve into personal anecdotes and family histories, showcasing how food serves as a bridge between cultures. From traditional Jewish dishes like kugel to southern staples like collard greens, the book celebrates the fusion of flavors and traditions, emphasizing the themes of resilience, community, and the deep connections forged through shared meals and experiences. Through this lens, Kugels and Collards o ers readers a profound understanding of the complex and enriching tapestry of southern Jewish and African American life.

Sunday, March 30 at 7PM via Zoom — enjoy from the comfort of your home! No Cost

Philip Eil, Prescription for Pain: How a Once Promising Doctor Became the “Pill Mill Killer”

Prescription for Pain by Philip Eil is a gripping true crime exploration of Dr. Paul Volkman, who once had a promising career as a physician but is now serving four consecutive life terms in prison for his “pill mill” scheme. Through investigative journalism and poignant storytelling, Eil uncovers the human cost of this enterprise, highlighting the lives a ected and the systemic failures that have allowed it to flourish. This book provides a critical examination of a pressing public health issue, o ering insight into the complexities and challenges of addressing opioid addiction in contemporary society.

“EXPEDITION TO EVEREST”

Sunday, April 6 at 2PM

Woodbourne Library

6060 Far Hills Avenue, Centerville, 45459

No Cost

Books available for purchase and book signing at event

In Partnership with Washington-Centerville Public Library and Women’s Philanthropy

Mimi Zeiman, Tap Dancing on Everest: A Young Doctor’s Unlikely Adventure

The daughter of a Holocaust survivor and immigrant mother, Zeiman was once an aspiring dancer. She spent a childhood with demanding parents who did not understand her choices and what’s more, disapproved of them. Her adventures took her to a kibbutz in Israel as well as a Rocky Mountain climbing camp. Fast forward a number of years, and she is in her third year of medical school. Zeiman is asked to accompany mountain climbers as they attempt to access a new route to the most dangerous side of Mount Everest. They do this without a sherpa or su cient oxygen. This riveting story will hold you spellbound as you navigate the journey with her.

March 2025

LOOKING FOR A GREAT PRESCHOOL EXPERIENCE FOR YOUR CHILD?

Register online at campshalomdayton.campmanagement.com/enroll

Questions? Contact Suzzy Nandrasy at snandrasy@jfgd.net

A Women’s Freedom Seder

The Dayton JCC Preschool may be the place for you. Our school provides:

• An eclectic curriculum that meets and exceeds The Ohio Learning and Developmental Standards.

• A warm and nurturing environment with low student/teacher ratios.

• Trained teachers that surpass required OCCRRA training hours.

• We are part of the SHEVA Learning Community, which is based on the Reggio Emilia Philosophy.

• Specialty instruction including movement, music, and art.

JCC Preschool open enrollment begins March 3rd.

Please reach out to our director, Katie Lagasse, with questions or to schedule at tour at klagasse@jfgd.net or 937-610-1794.

Limited spaces are available in various classrooms.

OUR JOURNEY FROM SLAVERY TO STRENGTH

Thursday, March 27 6 - 9PM

Beth Abraham Synagogue (350 Sugar Camp Circle, Oakwood)

Cost: $54 per person RSVP at jewishdayton.org/events by Thursday, March 6.

The JCC Women's Seder Committee invites you to the 11th Annual Women's Seder for a night of comradery, ritual, and dinner.

This year the Women’s Seder Committee is supporting children’s literacy in our community. We will be collecting NEW books for children from Pre-K through middle school for the Brunner Literacy Center. Please bring a book.

Alternatively, if you would rather give a monetary donation you may do so either by check or online at brunnerliteracy.org. We thank you for your support.

Questions? Contact Stacy Emo at semo @jfgd.net.

The Jewish Community Center is proud to collaborate with women from Beth Abraham Synagogue, Beth Jacob Congregation, Hadassah, Temple Beth Or, and Temple Israel. early childhood education

Where Jewish spirit & summer joy grow together

Camp life is sweet!

today for a summer of fun!

Legacies, Tributes, & Memorials

Did you know you can honor a friend or family member through a Legacy, Tribute or Memorial?

A donation to one of the Jewish Foundation's many endowments benefits our Jewish community while honoring a loved one. For more information, please contact Janese R. Sweeny, Esq. CFRE, at 937-401-1542.

LIBERATION – 80 YEARS LATER

56% of American Jews changed behavior in the past year over antisemitism fears, survey finds

The American Jewish Committee’s survey also found that about 80% are feeling at least somewhat less safe in the United States following Hamas’ Oct. 7, 2023 attack.

By Asaf Elia-Shalev, JTA

Most American Jewish adults are altering their behavior due to fears of antisemitism, according to a new survey commissioned by the American Jewish Committee and published Feb. 12.

When asked in late 2024, about 56% of respondents said they changed their behavior in the preceding 12 months, up from 46% in 2023 and 38% in 2022.

This figure includes respondents who said they avoided wearing clothing or displaying items that might identify them as Jewish, such as Stars of David; chose not to post content on social media that could reveal their Jewish identity or views on Jewish issues; or stayed away from certain places due to concerns for their safety or comfort as a Jewish person.

The AJC said the survey was designed to capture how American Jews have experienced antisemitism in the year-plus following the outbreak of the war in Gaza. The results largely align with findings from other surveys,

further documenting the rise in antisemitism.

The survey was conducted in October and November via a phone and online questionnaire with 1,732 participants meant to be representative of all American Jewish adults, with a margin of error of 3.3%.

Much of the survey focuses on public perceptions and concerns about antisemitism.

Nearly eight in 10 respondents reported feeling at least somewhat less safe in the United States following Hamas’ attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, than they did previously.

Seven in 10 said Jews are less secure than they were a year ago, and more than 90% believe antisemitism has increased over the past five years.

“Antisemitism has reached a tipping point in America, threatening the freedoms of American Jews and casting an ominous shadow across our society,” AJC CEO Ted Deutch said in a statement.

“This is an all-hands-ondeck moment for leaders across the U.S. We must act now to protect Jews — and America — from rising antisemitism.”

About a third of respondents said they were the target of antisemitism in the preceding 12 months. This includes people who reported being physically assaulted in an antisemitic attack (2%); targeted with verbal remarks (23%) or social media posts (17%); victims of vandalism or messaging left on your personal property (6%); or subjected to other forms of antisemitism not specifically asked about in the survey (10%).

Of those targeted, 78% said they did not report the incident.

The AJC also conducted a separate survey to assess attitudes about antisemitism among the general U.S. population. Most American adults expressed concern about rising antisemitism, according to responses from approximately 2,100 participants. About seven in 10 said they had heard of the term antisemitism and understood its meaning.

About 95% of American Jewish adults and 90% of all American adults believe that antisemitism is a problem for everyone and that combating it is a shared responsibility.

Florida man arrested after shooting 2 Israelis he thought were Palestinians

Police in Miami Beach have arrested a Jewish man who shot at two people in a car, thinking they were Palestinian. They were actually Israeli tourists. The man, Mordechai Brafman, 27, opened fire on the two men the night of Feb. 15, firing 17 shots.

Local reports say he told police that “while he was driving his truck, he saw two Palestinians and shot and killed both.” Israeli media have identified Brafman, a plumber, as Jewish.

In fact, the men, a father and son, survived with injuries to their forearm and shoulder, respectively, and were taken to the hospital.

The man who was shot in the shoulder, Ari Ribay, posted

on Facebook that he and his cousin Yaron were driving in Miami when a truck pulled up beside them and the driver began to spray bullets at them. Footage showed bullet holes in the car and Ribay coming out with a bloodstained shirt.

Before learning the shooter was Jewish, Ribay posted that he believed the shooting came from a “nationalist motive.”

He also posted a photo of himself hooked up to monitoring devices in a hospital bed.

“They shot me and my father in the car (with) 12 bullets,” he wrote. “One hit me, and I and my father are here in the hospital in Miami. My father is in shock and horror. We need your help.”

In 2023, a local television channel identified Brafman as a “frequent customer” of Bagel Time Cafe, a local kosher restaurant whose Israeli and American flags had been torn down.

“It’s absolutely abhorrent to see this kind of vandalism for not only showing pride for Israel, but pride for the United States,” he said at the time.

He has been charged with attempted murder. His attorney said in a statement Feb. 17 that at the time of the shooting, he was “experiencing a severe mental health emergency. It is believed that his ability to make sound judgments was significantly compromised.”

— Ben Sales, JTA

Roberto

Demonstrators in support of Israel denounce antisemitism and call for the release of Israeli hostages, on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., Nov. 14, 2023.

Join us at Beth Jacob as we go “Into the Sea” to celebrate Purim.

Join us at Beth Jacob as we go “Into the Sea” to celebrate Purim.

Join us at Beth Jacob as we go “Into the Sea” to celebrate Purim.

Thursday, March 13, 2025 7:30 PM Mincha/Ma’ariv 8:30 Megillah

Thursday, March 13, 2025 7:30 PM Mincha/Ma’ariv 8:30 Megillah

Light refreshments will be served

Light refreshments will be served

Thursday, March 13, 2025 7:30 PM Mincha/Ma’ariv 8:30 Megillah

Light refreshments will be served

Schmidt/AFP via Getty Images

Jacqueline van Maarsen, Anne Frank’s best friend, dies at 96

She dedicated the last decades of her life to lecturing about the Holocaust and Frank.

By Ben Sales, JTA

On June 15, 1942, days after receiving a diary for her 13th birthday, Anne Frank wrote that a classmate she had only recently met “is now my best friend.”

She and that friend, Jacqueline van Maarsen, promised to write each other goodbye letters if they were forced apart — which came to pass just weeks later.

Frank went into hiding in Amsterdam in July, and wrote van Maarsen her farewell letter in the diary in September, wishing that “until we see each other again, we will always remain ‘best’ friends.”

Holocaust Names Monument Netherlands in 1945. But beginning in 1986, van Maarsen began lecturing on the Holocaust and hate, and writing about her friendship with Frank.

On Feb. 14, the Anne Frank House announced that van Maarsen had died on Feb. 13, at age 96.

“Jacqueline was a classmate of Anne Frank at the Jewish Lyceum and shared her memories of their friendship throughout her life,” the institution, which is the official custodian of Frank’s legacy, said in a statement that included details about the friendship.

That meeting never took place, as Frank was murdered by the Nazis

“In her books and during school visits, Jacqueline spoke not only about her friendship with Anne but also about the dangers of antisemitism and racism, and where they can lead.”

Van Maarsen was the daughter of a Jewish father and a mother who was raised Christian and converted to Judaism.

Her mother managed to get her and

her sister declared non-Jewish in 1942, which enabled them to survive the war and Holocaust.

Most of van Maarsen’s father’s family was killed by the Nazis.

After the war, she got married, had three children and worked as an acclaimed bookbinder. Later in life, she wrote multiple books about Frank, including 2008’s My Name is Anne, She

Said, Anne Frank Van Maarsen stayed in touch with Frank’s father, Otto, and with the Anne Frank House.

In 2020, she laid the first stone of a Holocaust monument in Amsterdam. Last year, she donated a book of poetry from her youth to the institution. It included a poem written by her friend Anne.

Friday, March 14th 5:30 p.m.

Pie contest for sweet and/or savory pies

Bring your best entree pie or dessert pie to share: celebrity judge and prizes (Quiches, pot pies, pizza pies, and hand pies are all welcome) Prizes for creativity, taste, and appearance

Abbreviated Shabbat Service

Megillah Reading

Makor Students will perform a “Wicked” rendition of the Purim story

Jacqueline van Maarsen smiles as she examines the first memorial brick in the Names Monument of Amsterdam, the Netherlands, Sept. 23, 2020.

Jacqueline van Maarsen's 2008 book about Anne Frank.

Classes

Beth Jacob Classes: w. Rabbi Agar. Tuesdays, 7 p.m.: Torah Tuesdays on Zoom. Thursdays, 7 p.m.: Thursdays of Thought on Zoom. Call to register, 937-274-2149.

Chabad Classes: Tuesdays, noon: Lunch & Learn. Wednesdays, 7:30 p.m.: Talmud Class in person & Zoom. Call for Zoom link. Call for class locations. 2001 Far Hills Ave., Oakwood. 937-643-0770.

Temple Beth Or Classes: Sundays, 10 a.m.: Adult Hebrew. Sat., March 1, 15, 10 a.m.: Apocryphal Study in person & Zoom. templebethor. com/events. 5275 Marshall Rd., Wash. Twp. 937-435-3400.

Temple Israel Classes: Tuesdays, noon: Talmud Study in person & Zoom. Wednesdays, 10 a.m.: Weekly Torah Commentary w. Rabbi BodneyHalasz in person. Sat., March 1, 8, 9:15 a.m.: Virtual Torah Study on Zoom. For Torah Study Zoom info., email Fran Rickenbach, franwr@gmail. com. Fri., March 7, 11 a.m.: Living w. Loss w. Rabbi Bodney-Halasz. Thurs., March 13, 3:30 p.m.: Living w. Ambiguous Loss w. Rabbi Bodney-Halasz. tidayton.org/calendar. 130 Riverside Dr., Dayton. RSVP to 937-496-0050.

Children/Youths

CKids Purim in Minecraft City: Sun., March 9, 4 p.m. Free. RSVP at chabaddayton. org/events. 2001 Far Hills Ave., Oakwood.

Chabad Model Matzah Bakery: Sun., March 30, 4 p.m. Free. RSVP at chabaddayton. com/events. 2001 Far Hills Ave., Oakwood.

Family

Global Day of Unplugging: Sun., March 2, 9:15 a.m. W. Hillel Academy, PJ Library, religious schools of Beth Abraham, Temple Beth Or & Temple Israel. jewishdayton.org/events. At Beth Abraham Synagogue, 305 Sugar Camp Cir., Oakwood.

Temple Israel Prayer & Play: Thurs., March 13, 6 p.m. Infants–2nd grade. 130 Riverside

Dr., Dayton. 937-496-0050. Beth Abraham Rhythm ‘N’ Ruach: Fri., March 14, 5:306:15 p.m. 305 Sugar Camp Cir., Oakwood. 937-293-9520.

Adults

Temple Israel Ryterband Lecture Series: Sundays, 9:45 a.m. $7. March 2: Neal Gittleman, Dayton Philharmonic, Music that Matters. March 16: JFS Exec. Dir. Tara Feiner, JFS Leveraging Community Partnerships. March 23: WSU Poli. Sci. Prof. Donna Schlagheck, Update on the Israel-USA Relationship. March 30: Rabbi Tina Sobo, Neurodivergent Torah. 130 Riverside Dr., Dayton. 937496-0550.

JCC Boomers Bowling: Sun., Mar. 2, 2 p.m. $12 incl. shoe rental & drink. RSVP by Feb. 24 at jewishdayton.org/events. For info. contact Stacy Emoff, semoff@jfgd.net. Poelking Woodman Lanes, 3200 Woodman Dr., Kettering. 937-6101555.

No Joke: Jewish Humor & the Survival of American Judaism: Lecture by UC Assoc. Prof. & Judaic Studies Chair Jennifer Caplan. Mon., March 3, 5 p.m. Univ. of Dayton Sears Recital Hall, Philips Humanities Ctr. Visitor Parking Lot C. For info., contact UD Asst. Prof. of Relig. Abraham Rubin, arubin1@udayton.edu.

Temple Israel Sacred Stitching: Tues., March 4, 18, 11 a.m. Make items for donation w. JCRC’s Upstander initiative. For info., email Alexandria King, garyuzzking@hotmail.com. 130 Riverside Dr., Dayton. 937-4960050.

Reach for the Stars w. Hadassah: Sun., March 23, 2 p.m. Dr. Jack Bernstein's astrophotography. Wright Memorial Public Library, 1776 Far Hills Ave., Oakwood. Free. Registration required by March 16 to hadassahdayton@gmail.com or 937-275-0227.

45th Ryterband Symposium in Judaic Studies: Univ. of Calif., Berkeley Prof. Robert Alter, Wed., March 26. 4 p.m.: How to Read Biblical Narratives. 7 p.m.: The Challenge of Translating the Bible. Wright State

CALENDAR

Univ., Student Union, Discovery Room 163. Visitor lot parking across from Student Union. For info., contact Relig. Prof. Mark Verman, mark.verman@ wright.edu. 3640 Col. Glenn Hwy., Fairborn

JCC Culture Club, Camelot at The Loft Theatre: Wed., April 2, 7:30 p.m. $44, $38 seniors 60+. RSVP by Feb. 24 at jewishdayton.org/events. Contact Stacy Emoff for info., semoff@ jfgd.net. The Loft Theatre, 126 N. Main St., Dayton.

Women

Chabad Women’s Circle

Hamantashen Bake: Sun., March 9, 7 p.m. $36. RSVP at chabaddayton.com/cwc. 2001 Far Hills Ave., Oakwood. 937643-0770.

Women’s Freedom Seder: Thurs., March 27, 6 p.m. $54. Collecting new Pre-K- to middle school-level books. RSVP by March 6 at jewishdayton.org/ events. Contact Stacy Emoff for info., semoff@jfgd.net. At Beth Abraham, 350 Sugar Camp Cir., Oakwood.

Men

Chabad Bagels, Lox & Tefillin: Sun., March 2, 9:30 a.m. 13+ welcome. 2001 Far Hills Ave., Oakwood. 937-643-0770.

JCC Cultural Arts & Book Series

Full schedule on Page 14.

Purim

Beth Abraham Purim, The Wizard of ShushOz: Thurs., March 13. 4:30 p.m.: Carnival. 5:15 p.m.: Pizza Dinner. 6:20 p.m.: Costume Parade. 6:30 p.m.: Shpiel & Megillah Reading. $10 adult, $5 kids 3-13. Bring mac & cheese boxes for groggers & Foodbank donations. RSVP to 937-293-9520. 305 Sugar Camp Cir., Oakwood.

Temple Israel Inside Out Purim Carnival: Thurs., March 13, 6 p.m. W. Megillah reading. $8 adults, $5 kids 4-12. RSVP at tidayton.wispform. com/1ac4dbfa. 130 Riverside Dr., Dayton. 937-643-0550.

Beth Jacob Purim, Into the Sea: Thurs., March 13. 7:30 p.m.: Minchah. 8:30 p.m.: Me-

gillah reading. RSVP to Tammy Evans, 937-274-2149. 7020 N. Main St., Harrison Twp.

Temple Beth Or Pi(e) Day Purim: Fri., March 14, 5:30 p.m. Pie contest for sweet and/or savory pies, abbreviated Shabbat service, Megillah reading, kids' shpiel, games, Elphaba green beer. 5275 Marshall Rd., Wash. Twp. 937-435-3400.

Chabad Purim Party & Shabbat Dinner: Fri., March 14, 5:45 p.m. $35 adults, $10 kids. RSVP at chabaddayton.com/ calendar. 2001 Far Hills Ave., Oakwood. 937-643-0770.

Temple Anshe Emeth Purim Party: Sat., March 15, 2 p.m. Costumes, hamantashen making, Megillah. Contact Steve Shuchat, 937-726-2116. 320 Caldwell St., Piqua.

Community

Beth Jacob Shabbat Across America Services & Dinner: Fri., March 7, 5:40 p.m. Joined by members of Congregation Etz Chaim, Cincinnati. $18 dinner. RSVP for the dinner by Feb. 28 to Tammy Evans, 937274-2149. 7020 N. Main St., Harrison Twp.

2419 Far Hills Ave Oakwood, OH 45419 937.461.9450 Tue-Fri 10-5:30 Sat 10-4 Jaffejewelry.com

A Miami Valley Tradition

DAYTON THE reetings

OBSERVER

1. Select your greeting size. Check off your selection: A, B, or C. Warm Passover greetings from

This is a 1-column-inch size. (Does not include graphic) Only $15

2. Select your greeting. Check off your selection.

□ Happy Passover

□ A sweet and joyous Passover

□ Happy Passover to our friends

□ Our warmest wishes for a joyous Passover

□ Warm Passover greetings from

□ Best wishes to all for a Happy Passover

□ Wishing all of Dayton Happy Passover

□ We wish the Dayton Jewish community a Happy Passover

□ Other

The Simcha Family B This is a 2-column-inch size. (Includes graphic) Only $30

Dentist Dr. Mike Halasz has made his movie debut, thanks to FilmDayton. He plays a dentist in the feature film, The Color of the Sun, directed and written by Clint Bramlette and now airing on Amazon Prime. The crew shot the scene for the psychological thriller in Mike's office in Kettering. FilmDayton put out a casting call in 2022 for a dentist and dentist's office to appear in the movie. Mike applied and got the part. In an interview with FilmDayton, Mike said the director even let him make changes to the script. "There were a few lines that I didn't think a dentist would say the way they had it worded, and it felt a bit clunky," Mike told FilmDayton. "He allowed me to ad-lib to make it more natural and flow better."

2013, he served on the School of Professional Psychology's advisory board, and from 2006 to 2015 on the Wright State Foundation board including three years as chair of its development committee. Now retired, he is an emeritus trustee of the foundation board and is an Entrepreneur in Residence with the Dayton Entrepreneur Center.

Wright State has presented Joe Gruenberg with its Honorary Alumnus Award. A longtime attorney in Dayton, Joe's involvement with Wright State began in the mid-1980s, when he represented the developer who built and managed the university's first on-campus housing. From 2003 to

Steven Solomon has been appointed by the Dayton City Commission to the Dayton Sister City Committee, a member of Sister Cities International.

Send your Mazel Tov announcements to mweiss@jfgd.net.

Dr. Mike Halasz

Color of the Sun crew films in Dr. Mike Halasz's office.

Clint Bramlette

Purim's timeless lesson to combat antisemitism

By Rabbi Nochum Mangel Chabad of Greater Dayton

As the joyous festival of Purim approaches, we see that its themes resonate far beyond the historical narrative of Queen Esther, Mordechai, and the salvation of the Jewish people.

This ancient story offers a profound blueprint for confronting antisemitism, a scourge that continues to challenge Jewish communities worldwide.

Perspectives

By examining the multipronged strategies employed during the Purim story, we uncover timeless lessons that remain relevant in today's fight against hatred and bigotry.

The political approach: diplomacy in action

One of the most striking elements of the Purim story is the pivotal role of Queen Esther, whose courage and diplomatic skill turned the tide for the Jewish people.

When Haman, the prime minister of King Ahashverus, orchestrated a plot to annihilate the Jews, Esther’s intervention was not just a matter of personal bravery but a calculated act of diplomacy.

She risked her life by approaching the king uninvited, a breach of protocol punishable by death, and pleaded for her people’s survival.

Esther’s approach underscores the importance of leveraging political avenues to counter antisemitism.

Advocacy and fostering relationships with those in positions of power can yield results.

Yet, diplomacy alone is insufficient to deal with the deeper, spiritual dimensions of the struggle that the story reveals.

The spiritual response: strengthening Jewish identity

While Esther worked within the royal palace, Mordechai, the leader of the Jewish community, spearheaded a spiritual resistance.

Faced with the existential threat posed by Haman’s decree, Mordechai rallied the Jewish people, particularly the children, to reconnect with their faith.

He emphasized the importance of Torah study and prayer, inspiring his commu-

nity to stand firm in their identity despite the dangers they faced.

This act of spiritual defiance was not without risk.

The Jews could have saved themselves by converting or renouncing their faith, yet they chose to remain steadfast.

The Talmud highlights their collective resolve, noting that no individual considered abandoning Judaism to ensure their safety.

Mordechai’s leadership reinforced a critical truth: a strong, vibrant Jewish identity builds resilience against antisemitism.

The failure of appeasement and assimilation

The Purim story is also a cautionary tale about the perils of appeasement and assimilation. The Talmud recounts that the grand feast of King Ahashverus, in which the Jews of that generation participated, was meant by the king to be a public celebration of God’s abandoning the Jewish people and the end of their hope of returning to their homeland.

Mordechai condemned their participation. He warned that aligning with the king’s agenda and compromising their religion would not protect them from hatred.

His warnings proved prescient. Despite their attempts to assimilate and maintain good relations with the ruling establishment, the Jews were still targeted.

Haman’s genocidal decree laid bare the futility of seeking safety through compromising their values.

Both the king and Haman were willing to sell the Jews for a paltry sum, illustrating that

the deep-seated nature of antisemitism undermines political alliances and social integration.

Purim’s enduring message

Although Purim is classified as a rabbinic holiday, its message is far from minor. The story offers a clear road map for addressing antisemitism today.

Diplomacy has its place

Like Esther, we must engage in political advocacy and build alliances to safeguard our communities.

Diplomacy can be an effective tool, but other spiritual measures must complement it.

Strengthen Jewish identity

Mordechai’s emphasis on education, spiritual growth, and communal solidarity remains the pivotal approach. Individuals are better equipped to withstand external pressures and challenges by fostering a deep connection to God, Torah, and Judaism.

Haman was not just an act of defiance but a declaration of Jewish pride and unwavering commitment to his faith.

This courage inspired his generation to stand up against their oppressors, reinforcing the idea that fearlessness in the face of malevolence is crucial in combating antisemitism.

Lessons for today

In our contemporary world, where antisemitism ranges from overt acts of violence through the constant demonization and delegitimization of Israel to subtler acts of discrimination — the lessons of Purim are more relevant than ever.

While engaging in political and social advocacy is essential, the foundation of any effective response lies in the strength of the Jewish community itself.

A strong, vibrant Jewish identity builds resilience against antisemitism.

Vibrant Jewish education, communal unity, and an unapologetic embrace of Jewish values are indispensable to defeating hatred. Purim’s narrative reminds us that the struggle against antisemitism is not only a battle for survival but a fight for the preservation of identity and faith.

Reject appeasement

History has shown that appeasement and assimilation do not shield communities from prejudice. Instead, maintaining authenticity and integrity in one’s identity is a source of strength and fosters respect.

Fighting intimidation with resilience

The Purim story also teaches us to resist intimidation. Mordechai’s refusal to bow to

March • Adar/Nisan

Shabbat Candle Lightings

March 7: 6:18 p.m.

March 14: 7:25 p.m.

March 21: 7:32 p.m.

March 28: 7:39 p.m.

Purim

Feast of Lots

March 14/14 Adar Commemorates the rescue of the Jews in ancient Persia. The reading of the Book of Esther, costumes, grogers (noisemakers), and eating hamantashen are part of this festival.

Beth Abraham Synagogue

Conservative

Rabbi Aubrey L. Glazer Fridays, 5 p.m. Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. 305 Sugar Camp Circle, Oakwood. 937-293-9520. bethabrahamdayton.org

Beth Jacob Congregation

Modern Orthodox Rabbi Leibel Agar Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. Evening minyans upon request. 7020 N. Main St., Dayton. 937-274-2149. bethjacobcong.org

Temple Anshe Emeth Reform

Rabbinic Intern Jonathan Benzion Sat., March 29, 10 a.m. 320 Caldwell St., Piqua. Contact Steve Shuchat, 937-7262116, ansheemeth@gmail.com. ansheemeth.org

Temple Beth Or Reform

Rabbi Judy Chessin Asst. Rabbi/Educator Ben Azriel Fridays, 6:15 p.m. 5275 Marshall Rd., Wash. Twp. 937-435-3400. templebethor.com

Temple Beth Sholom Reform

Rabbi Haviva Horvitz 610 Gladys Dr., Middletown. 513-422-8313. templebethsholom.net

Temple Israel Reform

By emulating the courage of Esther and the spiritual leadership of Mordechai, we can draw inspiration to face modern challenges with resilience and hope.

This holiday, as we celebrate the triumph over Haman, let us also reaffirm our commitment to these timeless principles and ensure that the lessons of Purim continue to guide us as we keep building a strong, proud, and united Jewish community.

Torah Portions

March 1: Terumah (Ex. 25:1-27:19; Num. 28:9-15; Ex. 30:11-16)

March 8: Tetzaveh (Ex. 27:20-30:10; Deut. 25:17-19)

March 15: Ki Tissa (Ex. 30:11-34:35)

March 22: Vayakhel (Ex. 35:1-38:20; Num. 19:1-22)

March 29: Pekudei (Ex. 38:21-40:38; 12:1-20)

Senior Rabbi Karen BodneyHalasz. Rabbi/Educator Tina Sobo Fri., March 7, 6 p.m. Fridays, March 21 & 28, 6:30 p.m. Sat., March 15, 10:30 a.m. 130 Riverside Dr., Dayton. 937-496-0050. tidayton.org

Temple Sholom Reform

Rabbi Cary Kozberg Fridays, 6 p.m. 2424 N. Limestone St., Springfield. 937-399-1231. templesholomoh.com

ADDITIONAL SERVICES

Chabad of Greater Dayton Rabbi Nochum Mangel

Associate Rabbi Shmuel Klatzkin

Youth & Prog. Dir. Rabbi Levi Simon. Beginner educational service Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. 2001 Far Hills Ave. 937-643-0770. chabaddayton.com

Yellow Springs Havurah Independent Antioch College Rockford Chapel. 1st & 3rd Saturday each month. Contact Len Kramer, 937-5724840 or len2654@gmail.com.

Rabbi Nochum Mangel

Sacred Speech Series Theft of the mind

In the Garden of Eden, God commanded the man, “Of every tree of the garden you are free to eat; but as for the tree of knowledge of good and bad, you must not eat of it; for as soon as you eat of it, you shall be doomed to die.”

Some time later, the snake, the shrewdest of wild beasts, approached the woman: “Did

God really say: You shall not eat of any tree of the garden?"

The woman interrupted: “We may eat of the fruit of the other trees of the garden. It is only about fruit of the tree in the middle of the garden that God said: You shall not eat of it or touch it, lest you die.”

“You are not going to die,” the snake countered. “God knows that, as soon as you eat of it, your eyes will be opened and you will be like God, who knows good and bad.”

The woman could see that the tree was good for food, alluring to the eyes, and desirable for its wisdom. So she took

some of its fruit and ate, and gave some to the man with her, and he ate.

Introducing the snake as shrewd seems hardly necessary since its deceptive nature is evident in the story.

Perhaps it’s a hint to be on the lookout for similar tales of deception in the Bible.

Revealing a bloody ornamented tunic, Joseph’s brothers ask their father, Jacob, “Is it your son’s tunic or not?” leading him to erroneously conclude that Joseph had been killed by an animal.

To mask his own desire for the priesthood, Korach claims that Moses single-handedly established Aaron as high priest and argues that the entire community is holy and therefore eligible for the priesthood.

Having been promised a reward by the Philistines, Samson’s lover Delilah coaxes him to reveal the source of his strength: “How can you say you love me when you don’t confide in me?"

Deceptive speech is endlessly varied. It misrepresents, distorts, or exaggerates facts. It presents only partial truths or omits relevant information. It states opinions as facts or shares information out of

context in a misleading way. It twists words’ meanings or uses words in ways that lead a listener to draw incorrect conclusions.

And it is used deliberately to conceal the speaker’s inner motives: to get something they want, to protect or promote themselves, or to harm others, according to research in psychology.

The resulting tribulations in every biblical tale of deceit serve as a warning.

Perfectly capturing the essence of deceptive speech is the Hebrew term genevat daat, described most succinctly by Prof. Hershey Friedman as “theft of one's mind, thoughts, wisdom, or knowledge” through the use of words.

It means deliberately “fooling someone and thereby causing (them) to have a mistaken assumption, belief, and/or impression.”

It’s deemed the worst form of thievery, underscored by the assertion of the sages of the Talmud, “The Holy One hates the person who says one thing with their mouth but means another in their heart.”

Thus, Jewish law strictly forbids deceiving others.

Stone recently filed a lawsuit… claiming that (Ariana) Grande copied the hook (‘I want it, I got it…') …from his 2017 song You Need It, I Got It.”

Rabbi Joseph Telushkin points out that the motivation for using someone else’s unattributed words or ideas is either to impress others with one’s own intelligence.

Giving credit to one’s sources redeems the world, the

the name of Mordechai.’”

Verbal deception is also implied in the command in Leviticus, “You shall not put a stumbling block before the blind.”

Sifra, the legal midrash on the Book of Leviticus, explains, “Don’t say to your neighbor, ‘Sell your field and buy a donkey,’ when your whole purpose is to deceive him and buy his field…even if you can claim it’s good advice!”

In more modern scenarios, a real estate agent or stockbroker shouldn’t sell their products without revealing the known flaws or bad investments simply for financial gain, Rabbi David Golinkin notes.

Nor should a salesperson convince a customer to purchase an expensive item for which they have no use.

10:30 am-10 pm

10:30 am-10:30 pm Sun: 11:30 a.m-10 pm

A familiar and highly reported type of verbal deception involves disregard for the rabbinic principle of ha’omer davar b’shem omro, citing one's sources or giving credit where it’s due.

A sample of recent news articles is illustrative. “Harvard Medical School assistant professor…plagiarized large portions of an expert report on possibly carcinogenic chemicals…”

“NBC News (revealed) they had detected 11 articles written by one of their reporters… (who) had copied passages…”

“Singer-songwriter Josh

18: Jewish Stories Translated from 18 Languages edited by Nora Gold. What is Jewish literature? According to Harvard Prof. Ruth Wisse, it is “centrally Jewish.” Nora Gold adds that it is “reflective in some way of Jewish experience, consciousness, or condition.” The English language stories or novel excerpts in this anthology were originally authored by Jewish

sages teach in Pirke Avot, Ethics of the Fathers. This obligation and its reward originate in the Purim story. When Mordechai discovers a plot to kill King Ahashverus, he tells Queen Esther who in turn conveys the information to the king.

Rewarded for saving the monarch’s life, Mordechai is ultimately positioned to save the Jews of Shushan from extermination.

In the Talmud it is written, notably with attribution, “Rabbi Elazar said Rabbi Hanina said: Whoever reports a saying in the name of he who said it brings redemption to the world. As it is stated, ‘And Esther reported it to the king in

fiction writers from across the globe, writing in their native tongues ranging from Albanian to Yiddish. Dive in and discover how multilingual fiction can expand one’s understanding of the Jewish story.

Two Pieces of Chocolate by Kathy Kacer. How powerful is a single act of kindness? Imprisoned at BergenBelsen, Maman reveals to her young daughter, Francine, that she has smuggled

Circumstances arise every day that predispose us to verbal deception, like offering to do someone a favor or agreeing to participate on a committee even though we know we won’t follow through. Or making a referral despite knowing the individual is unavailable. Or inviting someone to dinner or to an event even when you know they will not accept. And what about youngsters who, promptly agreeing to clean up their bedrooms, deliberately continue playing kitchen or Lego or Minecraft? What inner motives do such deceptions satisfy?

“Do not deceive one another, but fear your God, for I the Lord am your God,” we read in Leviticus.

“How many times a day do our words not match our intentions?” challenges author Lois Tverberg. “We may not give a second thought about all the little ways we are deceptive, but we should if we want to be God’s people of integrity."

two pieces of chocolate into the concentration camp. “One day, when I see that you really need them,” she promises, “I’ll give the chocolates to you.” Then Francine learns that another prisoner or two might need them even more. Inspired by true events, this story has a most remarkable ending. An important Holocaust story focused on hope and survival, it is most appropriate for upper elementary and middle school ages, even in this picture-book format.

Candace R. Kwiatek

Detail of Samson and Delilah by Gustave Dore.

By Joan Nathan, The Nosher

Persian Jews from presentday Iran are especially proud of Queen Esther’s role in the holiday of Purim.

A favorite dish of all children in Iran is halavah — a candy with ancient roots, which Persian Jews eat after they break the Fast of Esther, observed the day before Purim.

Joan Nathan

At nursery school, Merissa learned this recipe for halavah from an Iranian teacher. In between bites, the children played with Esther and Ahashverus marionettes they had made with the help of their teacher.

This recipe was originally not sesame based, but I have adapted it since to include tahini.

Note: Its texture is more spoonable than cuttable, quite different from the commercial halavah to which we are accustomed.

From A Sweet Year © 2024 by Joan Nathan. Excerpted by permission of Alfred A. Knopf, a division of Penguin Random House LLC.

Equipment:

Measuring cups

Measuring spoon

Large frying pan with cover Wooden spoon

Spatula

8-by-8-inch square pan

Total time: 45 minutes. Yield: Makes about 20 squares

¾ cup unbleached all-

purpose flour

¾ cup tahini paste

1 cup sugar

½ tsp. ground cinnamon

Joan Nathan's Pistachio Halavah is perfect for Purim

½ tsp. ground cardamom

¾ cup vegetable oil

1 cup chopped pistachios or walnuts

In a frying pan, brown the flour over low heat for about 20 minutes, watching constantly and stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon. Remove the pan from the heat.

To the flour, add the tahini, sugar, cinnamon, cardamom and all but a tablespoon of the oil. With the pan still off the heat, stir for about five minutes, keeping the mixture a

light-brown color.

Add 1 cup of water and reheat, whisking for two to three minutes, until the halavah thickens.

Remove from the heat and cover the pan for a few minutes. Fold in the pistachios or walnuts.

Using the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil, grease an 8-inch square pan. Then scoop the mixture into the pan, spreading out well.

Let the mixture cool completely in the refrigerator and then cut it into small squares.

Are

This melt-in-your mouth adaptation of a Persian recipe is ready in under an hour.

jchizhe/Getty Images

A celebration of Southern Jewish cooking

By Caleb Guedes-Reed

The Nosher

If I asked you what first comes to mind when you think about South Carolina, chances are you’d conjure up images of its famous beaches, marshes, beautiful port cities, and complicated history.

Would you have thought about its deep-rooted Jewish life that spans hundreds of years of the state’s history?

In Kugels and Collards, Rachel Gordin Barnett and Lyssa Kligman Harvey share stories of food, family, and tradition in Jewish South Carolina.

Some of the recipes you’ll find as you flip through the pages are typical of Jewish cookbooks — matzah balls, latkes, and gefilte fish.

However, it’s the recipes like baked stuffed squab, grits and lox casserole, and kosher collards that will leave your table with an enchanting Southern twist.

I sat down with Rachel Gordin Barnett, co-author of the book and executive director of the Jewish Historical Society of South Carolina, to find out what inspired her for this project.

Can you define Southern Jewish food?

The Southern Jewish table is the food that a lot of us were raised with. My grandparents

were Ashkenazi (Central and Eastern European Jews), so there was the brisket, tzimmes, matzah ball chicken soup, sweet and savory kugels, but the Southern part comes in with the overlaying of the African American influence on the Jewish table.

Recipes like these came into the home whether people learned to cook them through assimilation or whether there was an African American woman in the kitchen doing the cooking, bringing their recipes in.

The women in the kitchen would bring with them the foods that were in the area: collards, okra, tomatoes.

You get the melding of cultures on this table. You might have a brisket and fried chicken for your protein, maybe you’ll have a bowl of collards sitting there. You might have a biscuit sitting in the bread basket next to the challah.

What inspired you to write the book?

My grandmother made the best honey cake and, of

course, she didn’t write the recipe down. I have yet to find a recipe that turns out the way hers did even though I keep tinkering with it. Stories like these are the reason we did this book. So we thought, we want to preserve these memories and these recipes and stories.

When we first started out on this project, we suspected that if you got people talking about food, that would get people talking about their family history.

For the first three or four years, we asked people to write their stories and posted it to a blog, which later led to this book.

Can you talk about the importance of food in Jewish and Southern culture?

Oh my gosh, I mean, what do we do when we all get together? Food!

In the Jewish culture, so many of our holidays are around the family table. On Yom Kippur we go and we fast, right? And then what do we do? We have a marvelous, wonderful, break fast.

In the South, food is everything. We’re in South Carolina and, as we say, we go from the mountains to the sea and we have the coastal area where we have plentiful areas of seafood and fish.

There is a great story in Chapter Two from Rhetta Mendelsohn and she talks about how we ate just like our neighbors, but with exceptions. She goes into a great story about how she ate just like her Southern neighbors except her mother and grandmother didn’t cook with bacon grease and they used Fleischmann’s margarine.

But when they went to the beach, they took along fried chicken, barbecue, and deviled eggs as well as chopped liver, herring, and brisket.

Can you talk about some of the Jewish entrepreneurs, grocers, restaurateurs and bakers whose food-based businesses you mention in the book?

This whole thing surprised us when we started gathering stories, and we realized we had enough to make a really significant chapter and we realized that Jews played a significant role whether it was in grocery stores, bakeries, and delis. A notable example is Groucho’s Deli. As a kid growing up, my parents would throw us in the car and we drive an hour to Columbia to go buy our Passover foods.

MARCH 15–JUNE 8, 2025

Through the midlands, where I am, we have farming and all these lovely fresh vegetables. I think food is that great equalizer in a way that comes across on tables.

How have climate, soil, and waters shaped the Southern Jewish palate?

In South Carolina you have these farming communities and whatever they were growing was going to end up on the table. The long growing seasons in the South give us things like peas, lima beans, corn, tomatoes, okra.

We have a recipe in the book for Annie Gaillard’s okra gumbo that uses these kinds of ingredients.

What do you most want readers to take away from the book?

What I’m hoping is that through this, we get people talking about their own family stories. It’s just such a great time if you’re around the table with your family and maybe your children are coming in for a holiday, and you can start talking about these things. Someone can even get out a recorder or ask your grandmother to go in the kitchen and make that recipe and someone takes notes.

Whether you live in South Carolina or Virginia or wherever, I think people will say, “Wow, I can easily identify with the shared experiences in this book that’s about family and about the table.”

The JCC Cultural Arts & Book Series in partnership with Beth Abraham Synagogue Sisterhood presents Kugels & Collards authors Rachel Gordin Barnett and Lyssa Kligman Harvey at 4 p.m., Sunday, March 9 at Beth Abraham Synagogue, 305 Sugar Camp Cir., Oakwood. The program, which features a sampling of their recipes, is $10 per person. Register at jewishdayton.org/events.

Kugels & Collards authors Rachel Gordin Barnett & Lyssa Kligman Harvey.

Image Above: : Jamie Wyeth (b. 1946) Great White Shark (detail), 2011, Charcoal, oil, and watercolor on toned paper board 24 x 18 in. Private collection. This exhibition is organized by Brandywine Museum of Art.

Arts&Culture

Irreplaceable Ira

Though overshadowed by brother George's music, his lyrics are here to stay.

Book Review by Martin Gottlieb Special To The Observer

Ira Gershwin never built the Stairway to Paradise that he imagined in his 1922 lyric. Perhaps he would have if his brother – composer George Gershwin –had not died young. After that, Ira went on to sustain his own legendary career. But he never seemed to be happy.

Ira and George grew up deeply assimilated in early 20th century New York. In Ira Gershwin: A Life in Words (Liveright Publishing, 2025), author Michael Owen tells a story into which their Jewishness hardly figures. They were less Jewish Americans than melting pot Americans.

Fortunate to be in an entertainment mecca, and blessed — at least in the case of George — with monumental talent, they almost inevitably found their way into show business. For Ira, the path had detours and frustrations, but his brother ultimately came to value him as a lyricist. And they were on their way.

But George's death at 38 of a brain tumor had a much more profound effect on Ira's life than to deprive him of a beloved brother and a partner; partners were not hard for Ira to find.

The death shaped the rest of Ira's life, saddling him with much (and disputed) responsibility for handling George's legacy, his papers, his unpublished work, and the ongoing financial arrangements for the money coming in that would have been George's.

The legal and family battles (which were conjoined) were endless and enervating and do not make for a good read.

This new bio did get a good review from the New York Times: “dignified but not starchy, efficient but not shallow, and honest about grief's unrelenting toll.”

But readers might not find the book as entertaining as they had hoped.

He

Still, there are items of interest here. For a remarkably accomplished person (a Pulitzer Prize winner, a three-time Academy Award nominee, contributor to multiple Broadway hits and some movies, among innumerable other accolades), Ira was remarkably lazy. He frequently turned down projects just because he didn't feel like doing the work.

He never made the transition to writing stand-alone songs or even movie themes. He had to have a show, a story. And there were plenty of Broadway and movie flops, not to mention projects that never came together despite early enthusiasm.

But we do have Fascinating Rhythm; Oh, Lady Be Good; Someone to Watch Over Me; The Man I Love; Strike Up the Band; 'S Wonderful; How Long Has This Been Going On?; I've Got a Crush on You; Bidin' My Time; But Not for Me; I Got Rhythm; I Got Plenty 'o Nuttin; It Ain't Necessarily So; Let's Call the Whole Thing Off; They All Laughed; and A Foggy Day (in London Town), among so many others.

frequently turned down projects

just because he didn't feel like doing the work.

When he did get involved, though, he'd be industrious. One gets the impression his work emerged from a sense of obligation to his collaborators. Conscientiousness trumped laziness. He never felt he got out from under his brother's shadow and never felt he deserved to.

The new Owen book might be of most interest to intense aficionados. It provides a play-by-play account of the development of various staged musicals. For most readers, the best Gershwin read might be the lyricist's words themselves. He put together his own collection of his work, called Lyrics on Several Occasions (1959), with commentary. He was an engaging writer of prose, too. Also, there's a thick coffee-table book called The Complete Lyrics of Ira Gershwin (1994), edited by Robert Kimball. Then, too, Michael Feinstein, the singer and student of the genre, called “The Great American Songbook,” whom the bio mentions briefly, did his own book about his intense connection with Gershwin. At the end of the lyricist's life, Feinstein did a deep dive into Gershwin's archives and wrote The Gershwins and Me (2012).

April 5, 2025

pictured: Aaron Jewitt of Ohio Valley Glass

A DOUBLE MITZVAH.

• anks to a generous anonymous donor, your gi — or additional gi — to Jewish Cemeteries of Greater Dayton will be matched, dollar for dollar.

• It’s a double mitzvah: the cemeteries of Beth Abraham Synagogue, Beth Jacob Congregation, and Temple Israel will combine into a single nonpro t. is ensures their sanctity in perpetuity, and strengthens each congregation’s nancial security.

• Contact Kate Elder at kelder@jfgd.net now for details and to make your pledge.

Anne Burke, age 91 of Vandalia, died Feb. 14 at the Hospice of Dayton. She is preceded in death by her parents, Samuel and Mary Bartles; her in-laws, Jack and Bea Burke; and her husband’s ex-wife, Maureen Burke, whom she chose as family. She is survived by her husband, Aaron Burke; her daughters and son-in-law Elizabeth Vann of San Diego; Sarah and Mats Villen of Stockholm, Sweden; and Maria White of Covington, Ky.; her grandchildren Judah and Mirabelle Vann, Hannah and Norah Villen, and Ian and Adrian White; her cousins Margie Pulliam, Ginger Connelly, and Patty Phillips; and her chosen family, Mary Anne and Kelley Davis of Vandalia. Anne was born in Grand Rapids, Mich. and lived the majority of her life in Dayton. Anne earned her B.S. and M.S. in art education from Bowling Green State University and Miami University, respectively, and dedicated her life to teaching, creating, and inspiring herself and others to be curious, explore, and take note of the beauty and possibilities in everything around them. She never returned from a

walk without her pockets filled with random objects, contemplating what she would do with them in her studio. Her love of learning and inspiring others went beyond art. As a teacher at Belmont High School, she nurtured countless youths and as a cochair of the student council, chaperoned many student trips. She was civicminded, exemplified by her active involvement in the credit union movement for 66 years, during which she served as a volunteer and board member with the Dayton Area School Employees and River Valley Credit Unions. She believed in building community, illustrated by her many years as an active member of the Ohio Art Education Association and Vandalia Sister Cities. Beyond these accomplishments, Anne was a lover of travel and adventure, making numerous trips to include every continent but Antarctica. As all that knew her know, Anne had the greatest smile of all time, was warm, and acted with the intention to make anyone around her feel welcome and included. Anne had a zest for life, was typically the ringleader, and taught by example acceptance, inclusion, the power of good deeds, the value of family and friends, and perseverance. In the last year of her life, despite great physical discomfort and limitations, she traveled to St. Maarten, San Diego, and Stockholm. Though her dear friends are too numerous to mention, special friends Velma and Bobby Amos, Sue and Howard Ducker, Barb Faro, Nancy Andrews, and Shirley and Jack Werst, she loved you dearly. The family requests donations be made to Temple Israel or to a Native American charity of your choice. You may view a livestream of the funeral service at youtube.com/c/TempleIsraelDaytonOhio/featured.

Abraham Synagogue, past chair of the JCC Jewish Film Fest, past member of the board of Beth Abraham Synagogue and the board of the Jewish Federation of Greater Dayton, the Baseball Writers Association of America, member of the Greater Dayton Baseball Hall of Fame, Dayton Area Sports History Association, and a veteran of the Army Reserves. Marc is survived by his beloved wife, Julie Liss-Katz; daughters and sons-in-law, Rachel Katz and husband Geoff Storchan, Aviva Waitz and husband Michael; son and daughter-in-law, Alex Katz and wife Elena Mayer; brothers and sister-in-law, Howard (Beth) Katz, Barry Katz; grandchildren, Noah, Ethan, Jonah, Emma, Rami and Maya. Interment was at Beth Abraham Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Jewish Cemeteries of Greater Dayton or Beth Abraham Synagogue in Marc’s memory.

Charter schools

Continued from Page 12

few months, two federal courts have deemed such ongoing exclusion of religious institutions unconstitutional — a California program that prohibited religious schools from becoming state-certified special needs schools and a New Jersey program that prohibited religious institutions from receiving historic preservation grants. A Supreme Court decision that takes aim at such ongoing religious discrimination might provide added legal momentum that encourages state and local governments to repeal rules that continue to exclude religious institutions.

Marc Edward Katz, age 77, of Kettering, passed away Jan. 31. Marc was a sports journalist for the Dayton Daily News for 43 years. He was a member of Beth

Prognosticating regarding the court is an uncertain business, especially when it comes to doctrines as unpredictable as the state action doctrine. Before the court can write the next chapter in the history of church and state, it first will have to decide how to classify religious charter schools. Are they unconstitutional attempts to turn public schools religious? Or are they simply another form of religious private school entitled to equal treatment? We’ll find out what the court thinks soon enough.

Michael A. Helfand is the Brenden Mann Foundation Chair in Law and Religion and codirector of the Nootbaar Institute for Law and Religion at Pepperdine Caruso School of Law; visiting professor and Oscar M. Ruebhausen Distinguished Fellow at Yale Law School; senior legal advisor to the Orthodox Union’s Teach Coalition; and a senior fellow at the Shalom Hartman Institute. Distributed by JTA.

We're here for you. Help us continue.

$18

Subscriber

One-year subscription to The Observer and acknowledgment in The Observer ($18 value)

$36

Double Chai

One-year subscription, acknowledgment in The Observer and one free one-column holiday greeting ($30 value)

Only The Dayton Jewish Observer brings you coverage of how the Israel-Hamas war and the global surge in antisemitism impact our Jewish community here in the Miami Valley.

We are your Jewish newspaper, covering the local stories most important to you.

Ad sales and Jewish Federation support only cover a portion of our expenses to bring you The Observer. Our printing costs have increased and postage expenses have more than doubled over the last three years.

Your help will ensure the depth of our coverage.

Please consider a Voluntary Subscription to The Observer.

$100 Angel

One-year subscription, acknowledgment in The Observer and one free three-column holiday greeting ($54 value)

$250

Guardian Angel

One-year subscription, one-year acknowledgment in The Observer and three free three-column holiday greetings ($126 value)

Make checks payable to The Dayton Jewish Observer.

— OR — Subscribe Here Ü

Renewing Angels

Karen & Steve Arkin

Judi & George Grampp

David & Susan Joffe

Susan Spiegel & Lisa Hanauer

New Angels

Debbie & Norbert Klopsch

Double Chai

Alan & Becky Elovitz

Michael & Christine Marmer

Judy & Todd Sobol

Diane Rubin Williams & Ralph Williams

Subscribers

Don Charles

Judith B. Fergus

Renee Claire Sutton

Current Champions +

Howard Michaels

Andrea Scher Rabiner

Current Champions

Elaine & John Gaglione

William Marwil

Milton Nathan

Current Sustainer

Laurence A. Lasky

Current Guardian Angels

Buck Run Commercial Doors & Hardware

Dr. Douglas & Mrs. Bethany

Einstein

Tara & Adam Feiner

Bruce & Debbie Feldman

Marni Flagel

Marc & Cindy Fox

Steven & Penney Fraim

Bella Freeman

Stephen Goldberg

Debby & Bob Goldenberg

Carol Graff

Susan & Jonas Gruenberg

Robert & Vicky Heuman

Marilyn & Larry Klaben

Laurie & Eddie Leventhal

Judy Lipton

Drs. Perry & Renata Lubens

Marvin & Susan Mason

Gary Pacernick &

$500

Sustainer

One-year subscription, one-year acknowledgment in The Observer and three free three-column holiday greetings ($126 value)

$1,000 Champion

All listed in Guardian Angel, plus the gratitude of knowing how much you help support Jewish journalism in the Miami Valley. ($126 value)

Peggy Weller

Bernard Rabinowitz

Brenda Rinzler

Susan & Nathaniel Ritter

Lee and Patti Schear

Zerla Stayman

Ms. Louise Stein

Steve & Shara Taylor

Temple Anshe Emeth

Current Angels

Jeffrey Abrahams

Elaine Abramson

Beth Adelman

Steve Adler

Donald Arnett

Dr. Joshua & Julie Atkin

K.W. Baker & Assoc., LLC

The Barrett Family

Skip & Ann Becker

Michael & Amy Bloom

Frieda Blum

Lisa & Kenneth Blum

Sylvia Blum & Family

Tara & Dan Brodbeck

James & Margaret Brooks

Judith & Steven Carne

Roger Chudde

Natalie R. Cohn

Thomas Cruse

Scot & Linda Denmark

Judge Susan Dlott

Howard & Sue Ducker

Phyllis A. Finkelstein

Lynn Foster

Jeff Froelich, Cindy Pretekin & Families

Dr. Felix Garfunkel

Mrs. Jack Goldberg

Kim & Shelley Goldenberg

Lynn & David Goldenberg

Michael Goldstein

Martin Gottlieb

Art & Joan Greenfield

Sydney & Lois Gross

Harold & Melissa Guadalupe

Sharon & Izzy Guterman

Dr. & Mrs. Stephen Harlan

Ralph E. & Sylvia S. Heyman

Linda & Steve Horenstein

Rachel Jacobs

Michael Jaffe

Joseph & Marsha Johnston

Linda Ohlmann Kahn &

Dennis Kahn

Jeffrey Kantor

Susan & Stanley Katz

Harriet Klass

Beth Kolotkin

Cantor & Mrs. Jerome Kopmar

Ellen & Michael Leffak

Cory & Sharon Lemmon

Edye Leuin

Todd & Gabriele Leventhal

Iris Levi

Meredith Moss Levinson

Levy Family

Ellie Lewis

Beverly A. Louis

Donald & Carole Marger

Helen Markman

Scott & Brenda Meadow

Suzi & Jeff Mikutis

Kristen Mitchem

Irvin & Gayle Moscowitz

William L. Moser

James Nathanson

In honor of Natalie M. Davis

RN NICU Neonatal, Cedar

Sinai Hospital, L.A., grandaughter of Martin Nizny

Ann Paddock

Karyn & Robert Posner

Sharyn Reger

Cherie Rosenstein

Alice & Burt Saidel

Barbara Sanderow

Diane Schultz

Felice Shane

Michael Silverman

Diane Lieberman Slovin

Jeff & Cathy Startzman

Myron Stayman

Maggie Stein

Marc & Maureen Sternberg

Rina Thau & Col. Jeffrey Thau, USAF, (Ret.)

Bob & Suzanne Thum

Rex & Louise Tincher

Mr. Lawrence Wagenfeld

The Waldman Family

Ms. Judith Weber

Donald & Caryl Weckstein

Paula Schwartz Weiss

Ronald Bernard & Judy Woll

at THE BOONSHOFT CENTER FOR JEWISH

Centerville,

Dayani

Mandana is a Jewish immigrant from Iran who lives in Los Angeles with her husband and their two daughters. She credits her experience immigrating to the United States as a religious refugee as one of the most formative inspirations behind her activism. She is a vocal supporter of Jewish pride and combatting antisemitism.

She is a human rights activist, business leader, creator and cofounder of I am a voter., and founder of The Democracy Heroes, national, nonpartisan civic engagement organizations. Most recently, she was president of Archewell, the production, audio, and philanthropic company founded by Prince Harry and Meghan, The Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

Prior to Archewell, she spent 15 years building and scaling brands across tech, fashion, media, and entertainment. Mandana is a globally celebrated brand and marketing expert and regularly appears on Morning Joe on MSNBC.

Mandana