Hit the (digital) road with online programs celebrating the history and culture of the Jewish South.
Join us for a Virtual Vacation!
Tune in to the Goldring/Woldenberg Institute of Southern Jewish Life (ISJL) Facebook page every Tuesday starting on August 25 for engaging, interactive digital events featuring museums, historic sites, scholars, chefs, and more from across the region.

The ISJL Virtual Vacation will introduce you to the South’s vibrant cultural heritage, the big themes of southern Jewish history, the folks working to advance social justice in the South, and our region’s natural beauty, music, and food. There’s so much to explore—join us for a summer vacation from the comfort of your home!

Sign up now to join the journey. We're excited to travel with you, wherever you are.
Session 1: Why Study Southern Jewish History?
Tuesday, August 25, at 11am Central
Join Dr. Josh Parshall, ISJL Director of History, for an introduction to southern Jewish history.

Dr. Parshall will be in conversation with ISJL Director of Heritage and Interpretation Nora Katz for a lively and engaging presentation about why the story of the Jewish South matters. We'll also learn about the history of the Arbeter Ring (Workmen's Circle) in the South, and the challenges and joys of developing and maintaining the Encyclopedia of Southern Jewish Communities.

The session will begin with an introduction to the Virtual Vacation and the ISJL's digital history resources, and will include plenty of time for live Q&A.
Sanford (Florida) Jewish Community Center, 1944
Image credit: State Archives of Florida
There's more to explore...
In addition to weekly digital events like videos and live streams, we’ll also pop into your inbox every Thursday with resources, links, and educational materials to help you engage more deeply with this history on your own.

What can you expect?

  • Thoughts about the week's theme, ranging from Jews and Civil Rights to southern Jewish food.
  • A video or song related to the week's program.
  • One article to read—maybe an engaging academic text or a more lighthearted popular article.
  • One activity to do at home.
  • Links, notes, and updates about next week's event!
To support this program and others like it, please consider donating to the ISJL.
In the meantime...
Start your virtual southern Jewish journey with ISJL resources designed to provide engaging windows into the history of the Jewish South.
The ISJL's Virtual Road Trip Through the Jewish South is an interactive collection of online resources accessible from anywhere. Check it out and get inspired before you begin the Virtual Vacation!
We'll travel again soon! When it's safe to hit the road, the ISJL can build a variety of trips through different southern states, emphasizing southern Jewish life, Civil Rights history, and southern culture. It's never too early to start planning your group's next adventure!