December 2021
Risch Immigration Program This Sunday to Focus on Nation’s Refugee Challenge
The Herbert H. And Irma B. Risch Memorial Program on Immigration will be held this Sunday, December 5, 2021, at 3:00 PM. The program will be presented in-person at the Edenwald Senior Living Auditorium in Towson (masks and vaccinations required) and streaming online. Advance registration is required.

Join us for a lively discussion of America’s refugee crisis, featuring some of the leading experts in immigration relief including Mark Hetfield of HIAS, Ruben Chandrasekar of The International Rescue Committee, and Asinate Vitusagavuluof Lutheran Social Services.

The United States has a long reputation as being a welcoming beacon of hope for refugees from around the world. Where does that reputation stand now? What is the situation in Baltimore and Maryland in helping refugees resettle in our communities? What are the challenges facing our nation, and what can be done? We will discuss all of these questions, and more this Sunday!
Annual Environmental Forum to Focus on Urgency of the Climate Crisis
Climate change is unquestionably worsening at a rapid pace. With Extreme floods, major hurricanes, and destructive wildfires ravaging communities around the globe, the climate crisis is here, and we must act now.

This year's environmental forum, presented with Pearlstone, will feature youth climate activist Jamie Margolin, who will deliver the keynote address. Participants will also be able to join breakout rooms and learn from trusted environmental advocates and leading legislators. Topics include the environmental rights amendment, equitable public transportation, a just transition to net-zero, and green construction. Register to join this virtual forum.
Are You The Grandchild of a Holocaust Survivor?
The Holocaust Remembrance Commission is launching a new program for third generation grandchildren of Holocaust survivors (3Gs). The program will connect area 3Gs to create a network to help preserve the legacies and stories of their families through social and educational gatherings.

If you are a third-generation descendant or have children or grandchildren who would be interested in getting involved, please contact Emily Goodman at egoodman@baltjc.org for more information.
Explore the Musical Traditions of the Eastern European Synagogue
Join us virtually for what is certain to be an exciting afternoon of music, history, and tradition. Hazzan Joel Lichterman and Cantor Sholom Kalib will bring to life the music of Cantor Shalom Kalib’s legacy, The Jewish Music Heritage Project, and his dedication to preserving a vanishing tradition of sacred music passed from generation to generation. This event is presented in partnership with the Jewish Museum of Maryland and synagogues from across the United States and around the world.

Over 700 Engaged in Holocaust Remembrance Programming During November
In November over 700 individuals participated in Holocaust programming presented by the BJC, and our partners. Over 350 students from around Maryland attended attended a virtual Lessons of the Shoah program hosted by the John Carroll School and featured a keynote address from Dr. Ellen Kennedy, Executive Director and founder of World Without Genocide.

Earlier in the month we commemorated the 85th anniversary of Kristallnacht where we were fortunate to be joined by Dr. Joshua Shanes, Associate Director of Jewish Studies at the University of Charleston, and an audience of nearly 200 people from across the United States who learned about the connection between pogroms in the United States and those in Europe. You can view the full presentation online.
Baltimore City Hall Illuminated to Shine a Light on Antisemitism
Earlier this week City Hall was illuminated in yellow and blue to shine a light on antisemitism, as part of a national initiative led by The Jewish Federations of North America, learn more and about how you can get involved.

Read about our efforts, along with The Associated and our partner agencies, to take a stand against antisemitism, in a recent op-ed in Jmore by Howard Libit and Emily Goodman.
Happy Chanukah!
Community members join Mayor Brandon Scott, Chabad, and elected officials to illuminate the Inner Harbor menorah and celebrate the first night of Chanukah.
Leaders of The Associated, BJC, and JCRC of Greater Washington light the menorah during a Chanukah reception hosted by Governror Hogan.
Other Upcoming Events & Opportunities
THIS SUNDAY

The Herbert H. And Irma B. Risch Memorial Program on Immigration

Streaming or In-Person

Sunday, December 5, 2:00 PM

Explore the Musical Traditions of the Eastern European Synagogue

Sunday, December 12, 2:00 PM

Annual Environmental Forum

When Crisis Becomes Reality: The Urgency for Climate Action

Thursday, December 16, 7:00 PM

Save The Date!

Winter Teachers Institute 2022: Spiritual Resistance During the Holocaust

Sunday, March 6 & 13

This program is open to educators in the state of Maryland and will take place virtually over two Sundays. Registration And More Information Available Soon
Baltimore Jewish Council | baltjc.org