At a time when Jews feel isolated and different, connection is so important. Togetherness crucial. And pride matters.
As I’ve talked to many families about maintaining Jewish pride during tough times, one thing became clear: Pride doesn’t need to be a grand statement or a massive undertaking, like a march or a protest. Jewish pride also can exist in small moments and patterns, as part of daily life. Here are some ways to weave it into yours.
Support Jewish businesses. Whether you’re dining at Rami’s or Mamaleh’s, grabbing chocolate from Wild Child or going to an event at Lehrhaus, this is a way to feel connected to the Jewish community—while also supporting the Jewish economy.
Cook Jewishly at home. Need everyday, accessible inspiration? Check out kid-friendly cookbooks from Joan Nathan, Naama Shefi and Adeena Sussman.
Watch movies featuring Jewish artists. My 14-year-old, who’s a big “SNL” fan, just devoured director Jason Reitman’s “Saturday Night,” about the show’s earliest, wildest days. (And, yep: Creator Lorne Michaels is Jewish!) My 8-year-old is all about Adam Sandler, which tracks: Lately, he’s gone deep into the vault with “Billy Madison” and “Happy Gilmore.”
Discover Jewish musicians. In my previous life, I was a curator for the Jewish Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. So many rock stars (and rappers, and more!) are Jewish, from the well-known (Bob Dylan, Paul Simon) to the below-the-radar (it’s never too early to introduce your kids to Steely Dan) to Broadway (Idina Menzel).
Flaunt your Jewish fashion. Wear it on your sleeve with the cheeky offerings from Modern Tribe (lots of kids’ sizes!), cute staples from Poppy Lane or special-occasion splurges with Kidichic.
Read books by Jewish authors. PJ Library has a glorious suite of selections, but favorites in our house have been the Hank Zipzer series by Henry Winkler (yes, the Fonz—all about a dyslexic boy, modeled after Winkler, who perseveres against sometimes hilarious and relatable odds); and the ever-zany Wayside School series by Louis Sachar.
Go to Jewish events (when it works for you!). From Jewish Heritage Night at Fenway Park to beer garden gatherings at Trillium for new parents—there are lots of ways to connect with your community as one-offs, for those of us with unpredictable schedules. See you out there!
