America250 w/ Hasia Diner and Beth Wenger
Below is a brief summary and list of resources that came up during the conversation:
American Jewish History Narratives Reimagined
Avi discussed the three narratives of Jewish history in America, highlighting the resurgence of anti-Semitism and the challenges faced by the third narrative, which is often inward-looking. Beth emphasized the need for American Jewish museums to reflect on their narratives and consider new ways of sharing American Jewish history, suggesting a shift from focusing on Jewish contributions to engaging with the complexities of American Jewish life. She urged Jewish organizations to move away from "contribution history" and instead thoughtfully engage with the real complexities of American Jewish life, including migration experiences, minority existence, and the contingency of freedoms.
Inclusive American Jewish History
Hasia discussed the need to reframe American Jewish history by incorporating the experiences and interactions of Jews with other ethnic and religious groups. She highlighted the importance of acknowledging the complex relationships and mutual influences that shaped Jewish life in America, rather than presenting Jews in isolation. Hasia provided examples, such as Jewish-Chinese interactions in food consumption and Jewish-Irish collaborations in education and labor movements, to illustrate the need for a more inclusive narrative. She encouraged museums and scholars to explore these intersections to create a richer and more accurate representation of American Jewish history.
Integrating Jewish History in America
The group discussed the importance of integrating Jewish history with the broader American narrative, emphasizing the need for partnerships across institutions to address siloed approaches to ethnic histories. Beth highlighted the value of intellectual and cultural insights gained from such collaborations, while Avi noted the limited focus on reciprocal influences between Jews and mainstream culture.
Additional Resources:
1. How to Join America250 - Official Website
To find information on how to join the 250th anniversary celebrations or initiatives, you would visit the official website (specific URL needed). The site typically includes details on membership options, upcoming events, and ways to get involved with the commemoration of this milestone.
The Sapir Journal is a publication that focuses on Jewish culture, literature, and scholarship. It provides articles, essays, and reviews that connect diverse aspects of Jewish life and thought. You can check their official website for current issues and submission guidelines.
3. Interpreting American Jewish History at Museums and Historic Sites by Avi Decter
Avi’s book is vital for museum professionals during America250, offering insights into how Jewish communities have shaped American history through themes of immigration, resilience, and cultural evolution. The book emphasizes minority-majority relations and showcases innovative case studies that engage diverse audiences. It advocates for adaptive practices and inclusivity, ensuring museum narratives reflect America’s complexity. This resource encourages professionals to honor and represent all cultural stories as the nation continues to evolve.
4. Museum of Jewish Heritage - Project MahJong
Project MahJong is a curated exhibition designed by Melissa Yaverbaum, showcasing the cultural impact of MahJong in the Jewish community and beyond. For installation shots and programming insights, visit the Museum of Jewish Heritage's website, which hosts multimedia resources related to the project and its community engagement initiatives. Additional resources: Museum of Jewish Heritage in NYC's - installation shots from designer here; and CJM programming and videos articles about the traveling offering insight into the project and intersecting communities JRB, Kveller, Yiddish Book Center talk.
5. Latin American Jewish Museums Network
The newly formed network of Latin American Jewish Museums, led by Tammy Kohn, aims to connect and promote Jewish history and experiences within Latin America. Their website includes resources and information about museums across the region, allowing for greater understanding and exploration of the Latin American Jewish experience.
6. FENTSTER Exhibition, Evelyn Tauben
The exhibition "Wholesome Amusement," curated by Evelyn Tauben, explores shared experiences of Jewish and Chinese newcomers in Toronto through the work of a local Chinese-Canadian artist. Additionally, the webinar "ART OUT OF THE ARCHIVES" delves into connections between Yiddish theatre, Kung Fu films, and contemporary art.