When our ancestors migrated to the United States decades ago, many longed to adopt America’s traditions while still holding onto their strong Jewish roots. For many, the perfect way to assimilate was through the celebration of Thanksgiving, a secular holiday that’s largely centered on the three Fs—family, food and football. Today, Thanksgiving is the most widely celebrated holiday for American Jews. Digging a little deepe...
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From our strongest core values to our favorite holiday recipes, we’ve inherited much of what makes us who we are from our ancestors—but many may have passed down more than that. Approximately one in three Jews of Ashkenazi descent—the ethnic identity most recognized by people in North America—are said to carry at least one type of genetic disorder. In total, Ashkenazi Jews have a high carrier rate for more than 40 gene...
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For more than 50 years, USY on Wheels has been taking Conservative Jewish teens on a six-and-a-half-week journey across North America to see some of the continent’s most unforgettable attractions. As memorable as it was this summer for 16-year-old Lindsey, a Florida native, to meet Mickey Mouse at Disneyland and experience the beautiful views of the Grand Canyon, these weren’t the highlights of her trip—instead, it was ...
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To Honor Cecil and David As seen in Jewish Journal, by Dr. Ron Wolfson I never met Cecil and David Rosenthal, may their memories always be a blessing, but I knew them. I can see Cecil, described as a “gentle giant” by his family and many, many friends, standing at the front door of the Tree of Life sanctuary, greeting everyone who arrived there with a broad smile and a strong handshake. I can hear him offering ever...
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Time and time again throughout history, our Jewish ancestors have been forced to flee their homes in an attempt to live better and safer lives. And whether through the national news, social media or the local newspaper, almost all of us are aware of the current crisis at the U.S.–Mexico border, eerily echoing what the Jewish people have experienced for thousands of years. At the end of August, Jewish leaders and repres...
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