Monday night we hosted a fantastic Yom Ha’Atzmaut program. Many thanks to our event partners State of Israel Bonds and the Capital District Board of Rabbis and Cantors.
As I’m sure you are aware, I am a huge fan of collaborations. In the comic book world (I collect them), we call collaborations “team-ups.” Superman is great and Batman is great, but when they team up, they are the “World’s Finest.” (Reference to a comic book starring Superman and Batman.)
Jewish Federation does many things well, but for some things, other groups can bring added value or simply do better. Our ability to partner with anyone gives us access to the best, allowing us to offer you the best. Federation was asked to sponsor an Israel support rally in Saratoga. I called our friends at Run For Their Lives to help us with a walk for the hostages, which they do every week. I also called our friends at Amidah, a new group formed to stand up for Israel and the Jewish community and to stand up against antisemitism. Join us Sunday, May 19, in Congress Park for a “free the hostages” walk at 2:00 p.m., followed by a “support Israel rally” at about 2:30. Please see the flyer below.
Federation was also asked to publicize the availability of a new film documentary Screams Before Silence by Sheryl Sandberg about the sexual violence committed by Hamas on October 7, 2023. While the film is not graphic, the subject matter is very difficult. Therefore, we are partnering with Jewish Family Services (JFS) to offer a public viewing on Thursday at 6:30 p.m., followed by a facilitated discussion with JFS clinicians. The film is free and available to all on YouTube, but we encourage everyone to watch the film with community and professionals. Note: If you are more comfortable watching the film on your own, of course, you are still more than welcome to attend the facilitated discussion at around 7:30 p.m. Please see the flyer below.
Looking forward to seeing you much of this week.
