Being Jewish In America, 2024

Jewish Identity Through the Lens of Modern History

 

4 Sundays, starting January 28, 11:00 am to 12:30 pm at Bais Chabad of West Bloomfield, 5595 W. Maple Rd. W. Bloomfield, MI 48322. 

Class will be streamed on Zoom as well. (complimentary breakfast served).

 

4 Tuesdays, starting January 30, 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm at Bais Chabad of West Bloomfield and on Zoom 

All are welcome to try out the first class at no charge.

Classes taught by Rabbi Shneur Silberberg. 

 

Cost: $40
Textbook: $30

Scholarships available thanks to the Mara Israel Scholarship Fund

Reserve to [email protected] or online here. 

Questions? Email or call Rabbi Shneur Silberberg 248-855-6170

 

Preview to the four classes

Lesson 1: Freedom For All

In 1790, after leading a revolution in the name of liberty, George Washington affirmed the divine and inviolable freedoms of America's tiny Jewish community. What is freedom? Is it indeed liberating to do as we please? Perhaps freedom is about something much deeper, more meaningful, and fulfilling!

Lesson 2: The Jewish Vote

In 1862, General Ulysses S. Grant signed an order expelling all Jews from the area under his command. This became a defining issue in his 1868 presidential campaign. Are Jews obliged to vote as Jews? Can our concerns as Jews conflict with our duties to our Diaspora home? Where should our first allegiance lie?

Lesson 3: Anti Semitism

Sadly, Anti Semitism has reared its ugly head once again, and hatred toward Jews continues to be on the rise. We face a paradox−a desire for complete acceptance of Jews within society, while at the same time hoping that younger Jews and coming generations do not choose to assimilate and instead commit to living a Jewish life. How is this to be accomplished? What can we learn from the story of local hero Hank Greenberg and his experiences, on and off the field, with Anti Semitism.

Lesson 4: Light Onto The Nations

In 1655, Menashe ben Israel shared a dream of redemption, moving Oliver Cromwell to readmit Jews to England. What is our role as Jews to inspire the world with a vision of universal peace and goodness? This lesson moves beyond mere Jewish continuity, and presents the idealistic vision that Judaism has for all humanity.