BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Baltimore Jewish Council - ECPv6.15.18//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.baltjc.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Baltimore Jewish Council REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/New_York BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20240310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20241103T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20270314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20271107T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251208T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251208T203000 DTSTAMP:20260407T043704 CREATED:20251024T150415Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251105T203521Z UID:20132-1765220400-1765225800@www.baltjc.org SUMMARY:Sharing Their Stories: Generations of Memory DESCRIPTION:Teach the Shoah and the Baltimore Jewish Council present an evening showcasing the power of Holocaust memory across generations\, featuring voices from the 2nd (children)\, 3rd (grandchildren)\, and 4th (great-grandchildren) generation descendants of Holocaust survivors. The powerful\, moving storytelling will be followed by a panel discussion that brings together storytellers and historians to explore how Holocaust memory is preserved and the effect of bringing these stories into the community. \nREGISTER HERE\nDate: December 8 \nTime: 7:00 pm \nLocation: Pearlstone Room\, Weinberg Park heights JCC\, 5700 Park Heights Ave\, Baltimore MD 21215 URL:https://www.baltjc.org/event/teach-the-shoah-2025/ LOCATION:Weinberg Park Heights JCC\, 5700 Park Heights Avenue\, Baltimore\, 21215\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Emily Goodman":MAILTO:egoodman@baltjc.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251106T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251106T190000 DTSTAMP:20260407T043704 CREATED:20250912T170338Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251106T145915Z UID:19995-1762455600-1762455600@www.baltjc.org SUMMARY:Kristallnacht 2025: The Legacy of Chief Prosecutor Benjamin Ferencz DESCRIPTION:Thursday\, November 6\n7:00 p.m.\nBeth El Congregation\n8101 Park Heights Ave.\nBaltimore\, MD 21208 \nJoin the BJC for an intimate conversation with Scott Ference\, nephew of former US Chief Prosecutor Ben Ferencz\, who was the lead prosecutor in the Nuremberg Trials for the Einsatzgruppen. This program commemorates the 80th anniversary of the beginning of the trials. Interview moderated by WBAL Radio’s Robert Lang. \nRegister Here\nAccess the livestream at 7:00 p.m. here URL:https://www.baltjc.org/event/kristallnacht-2025/ LOCATION:Beth El Congregation\, 8101 Park Heights Avenue\, Baltimore\, MD\, 21208\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Emily Goodman":MAILTO:egoodman@baltjc.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251119T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251119T193000 DTSTAMP:20260407T043704 CREATED:20251106T152505Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251110T183348Z UID:20207-1763564400-1763580600@www.baltjc.org SUMMARY:Shuk to the Core: Israel Vendor Fair DESCRIPTION:The BJC is pleased to once again sponsor this event \nThe Baltimore Jewish community truly shined at last year’s Baltimore Israel Vendor Fair: SHUK TO THE CORE. The outpouring of support from over 1\,000 patrons and close to 100 volunteers helped make the event a true success. The Israeli vendors and organizers who came to Baltimore last fall were deeply grateful for the enthusiastic and generous response from our community. \nDue to the success of last year’s Shuk\, and the continuing challenges faced by Israeli businesses during the past two years\, we have been asked to hold another SHUK TO THE CORE vendor fair on Wednesday\, November 19 at Beth Tfiloh. We invite the Baltimore Jewish community to attend this important event in support of our Israeli brothers and sisters. \nWe will be welcoming a group of new and returning Israeli merchants with a curated selection of high-quality\, handmade items including stunning jewelry\, unique Judaica\, original artwork and home decor\, Israeli skincare products\, fashion and accessories\, and more with 100% of every purchase going directly to the vendors. Once again\, our visiting vendors will create a vibrant and authentic Israeli marketplace with each artisan sharing their personal stories and connections. \n  \nHOW YOU CAN HELP \n1. ATTEND the Shuk To assist with crowd control and parking\, we are again providing TIMED ENTRY PASSES by advance purchase and strongly recommend that passes be purchased early to ensure your desired shopping time. There is a $5 admission charge for adults (children 17 and under are free). All entry fees and sponsorships will be used to defray the costs of the event and to assist Israeli vendors with airfare\, shipping and other travel expenses. \n  \n2. VOLUNTEER at the Shuk \nAgain this year\, we need volunteers to assist the Israeli vendors during the Shuk in managing their booths and to help the event run smoothly. Other volunteer tasks will include crowd control\, checking in patrons and volunteers\, and help with food service. You can register for one or more time slots that are convenient for you using our SHUK VOLUNTEER SIGNUP FORM. \n  \nYossef’s falafel and Tov Pizza will be available for purchase. \n  \nOur tradition teaches that the highest form of tzedakah is to enable individuals to earn a living and have the dignity of supporting themselves. Show your solidarity with Israel by helping to support our visiting Israeli merchants on November 19. \nFor more information\, visit bethtfiloh.com/shuk or contact mail@btfiloh.org. URL:https://www.baltjc.org/event/shuk-to-the-core-israel-vendor-fair-2/ LOCATION:Beth Tfiloh Congregation\, 3300 Old Court Road\, Pikesville\, MD\, 21208\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Kate McDonald":MAILTO:kmcdonald@baltjc.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251207T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251207T113000 DTSTAMP:20260407T043704 CREATED:20251027T140217Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251103T170149Z UID:20154-1765101600-1765107000@www.baltjc.org SUMMARY:Annual Environmental Forum: Persevering Through Uncharted Waters DESCRIPTION:SUNDAY\, DECEMBER 7\n10:00–11:30 a.m.\nPearlstone Retreat Center\, 5425 Mt Gilead Road\, Reisterstown \nJoin us for this year’s Annual Environmental Forum\, Monday\, December 7\, at Pearlstone\, where community members\, advocates and environmental leaders come together to explore the latest in Maryland’s environmental policy. \nThis event is open to all. \nNo prior experience with environmental policy or Jewish community involvement is needed. Just bring your curiosity and commitment to a healthier planet. \nREGISTER HERE\nQuestions? Email Abby Snyder \nWHAT TO EXPECT: \n\nPanel Discussion | conversation with key Maryland legislators\, moderated by Rabbi Fred Scherlinder Dobb.\n\nPriority bills that will be discussed include: CHERISH Act\, Maryland Bottle Bill\, Transportation and Climate Alignment Act\, Vernal Pools\, Biosolids Safety and PFAS Protection Act\n\n\nCommunity Connections | Visit tables from local environmental organizations\, including Interfaith Partners for the Chesapeake\, League of Conservation Voters\, Clean Water Action\, Sierra Club\, and more.\nDelicious Brunch | Fully vegetarian\, OU-certified kosher\, with gluten-free and vegan options.\nOptional Workshop | Following the forum – Learn how to grow your own mushrooms with Pearlstone’s hands-on class. Participants will help replenish Pearlstone’s mushroom logs and take home one or two of their own.\n\nThis event is open to all. No prior experience with environmental policy or Jewish community involvement is needed. Just bring your curiosity and commitment to a healthier planet. \nIf you are looking for opportunities to carpool for this event\, check out the Annual Environmental Forum on Group Carpool.\n\nHosted by the Baltimore Jewish Council and the Baltimore Environmental Sustainability Network (BESN)\n(BESN is an initiative of Adamah in partnership with The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore) URL:https://www.baltjc.org/event/annual-environmental-forum-2025/ LOCATION:Pearlstone\, 5425 Mount Gilead Rd\, Reisterstown\, MD\, 21136-4110\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Abigail Snyder ":MAILTO:asnyder@baltjc.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20251208T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20251208T203000 DTSTAMP:20260407T043704 CREATED:20251105T203705Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251105T203705Z UID:20205-1765220400-1765225800@www.baltjc.org SUMMARY:Sharing Their Stories: Generations of Memory DESCRIPTION:Teach the Shoah and the Baltimore Jewish Council present an evening showcasing the power of Holocaust memory across generations\, featuring voices from the 2nd (children)\, 3rd (grandchildren)\, and 4th (great-grandchildren) generation descendants of Holocaust survivors. The powerful\, moving storytelling will be followed by a panel discussion that brings together storytellers and historians to explore how Holocaust memory is preserved and the effect of bringing these stories into the community. \nREGISTER HERE\nDate: December 8 \nTime: 7:00 pm \nLocation: Pearlstone Room\, Weinberg Park heights JCC\, 5700 Park Heights Ave\, Baltimore MD 21215 URL:https://www.baltjc.org/event/sharing-their-stories-generations-of-memory/ LOCATION:Weinberg Park Heights JCC\, 5700 Park Heights Avenue\, Baltimore\, 21215\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Emily Goodman":MAILTO:egoodman@baltjc.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260120T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260120T200000 DTSTAMP:20260407T043704 CREATED:20251111T182225Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251121T173022Z UID:20221-1768932000-1768939200@www.baltjc.org SUMMARY:Interfaith Blanket Making for Sinai Child Life Program DESCRIPTION:Looking for an opportunity to give back and meet your diverse neighbors?\n \nJoin us for an evening of No-Sew Blanket making for the Sinai Hospital Child-Life Program.\n \nParticipants will have the opportunity to make blankets for pediatric patients at Sinai Hospital while meeting and mingling with neighbors of all backgrounds. \nAll are welcome\, kosher dietary laws will be followed. \nREGISTER HERE\nTuesday January 20\, 2026\n6-8 p.m.\nAssociated\, Goldsmith Campus\, Pearlstone Board Room\, 5700 Park Heights Avenue\, Baltimore\n\n\nSupported by: The Lyn Stacie Getz Foundation. A foundation of the Associated Jewish Community Federation of Baltimore URL:https://www.baltjc.org/event/interfaith-blanket-making/ LOCATION:Associated\, Goldsmith Campus\, 5700 Park Heights Avenue\, Baltimore\, MD\, 21215\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Megan Brantley":MAILTO:mbrantley@baltjc.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260127T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260127T190000 DTSTAMP:20260407T043704 CREATED:20251222T174807Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260126T173812Z UID:20340-1769540400-1769540400@www.baltjc.org SUMMARY:International Holocaust Day - From Generation to Generation\, Their Stories Endure L’dor Vador DESCRIPTION:Join BJC and Chizuk Amuno Congregation for an evening of remembrance\, reflection\, and connection.\nThrough personal stories and shared experiences\, we will explore how Holocaust\nmemory is passed from one generation to the next — and why telling these stories\nmatters today. \n\nTUESDAY\, JANUARY 27 | This event is now virtual\n \n\n6:30-7 p.m. (Pre-program Museum event)\nProgram will begin promptly at 7 p.m.\n\nThe event is free\, but registration is helpful for planning. \nREGISTER HERE\n\nVoices from different generations will reflect on legacy\, identity\,\nand the responsibility we each carry to remember\, to teach\, and to stand against hate. \nDesigned to be accessible and meaningful for teens\, adults\, and families\,\nthis program offers space to listen\, learn\, ask questions\,\nand honor the past while looking toward the future. \nThe evening will conclude with a memorial ceremony\,\nincluding moments of reflection\, prayer\, and candle lighting\,\nallowing our community to remember together and\nreaffirm our shared commitment to shaping a more compassionate world. \nAs we honor those whose lives were lost\, we also affirm life\, memory\, and hope —\ncarrying these stories forward so the next generation never forgets\nand always stands for light over darkness. URL:https://www.baltjc.org/event/international-holocaust-day-2026/ LOCATION:Virtual ORGANIZER;CN="Emily Goodman":MAILTO:egoodman@baltjc.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260203T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260203T200000 DTSTAMP:20260407T043704 CREATED:20251105T173454Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260127T173346Z UID:20192-1770134400-1770148800@www.baltjc.org SUMMARY:Maryland Jewish Advocacy Day 2026 DESCRIPTION:Join us in Annapolis for Maryland Jewish Advocacy Day!\nJoin us on Tuesday\, February 3\, 2026 in Annapolis to meet with elected officials and discuss legislative priorities of the Jewish Community. Meetings will be followed by a keynote event. Kosher fare will be provided. \n\nBaltimore Residents: REGISTER HERE\nFor JCRC of Greater Washington Registration: Register here \nFor Jewish Federation of Howard County: Register here \nJewish Federation of Annapolis and the Chesapeake: Register here\n \nAgenda \n\n3pm: Bus Departs from Chizuk Amuno Congregation (8100 Stevenson Rd\, Baltimore\, MD 21208) – prior registration for bus service required\n4pm: Bus and other attendees arrive at The Graduate Hotel\n4:15pm: Registration begins\n5-6pm: Meetings with Legislators\n6:15-8pm: Reception and Keynote Event at The Graduate Hotel\n\nAdvocacy Day One-Pagers:\n\nBJC Legislative Priorities\nBJC Budget Priorities\nAccess to Religious Facilities\nAddressing Antisemitism in K-12 and Higher Ed\nBenefits Exploitation\nYouth Charging Reform Act URL:https://www.baltjc.org/event/maryland-jewish-advocacy-day-2026/ LOCATION:The Graduate Hotel\, 126 WEST STREET\, Annapolis\, MD\, 21401\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Abigail Snyder ":MAILTO:asnyder@baltjc.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260208T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260208T143000 DTSTAMP:20260407T043704 CREATED:20251112T190528Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251114T143906Z UID:20228-1770552000-1770561000@www.baltjc.org SUMMARY:Amplify: The Jewish Media Project DESCRIPTION:Jmore invites high school students to come together for Amplify: The Jewish Media Project\, exploring what it means to be Jewish today — through your own voice and perspective. \nBuild your college resume and learn effective communication skills! \nEvent will feature inspiring speakers and small group workshops on writing\, photo/video and social media. \nPlus\, the chance to earn up to $2\,500 in college scholarship money. \nThe BJC is proud to be a partner for this event. \n \nSunday\, Feb. 8th \nThe NCO Club at the Pikesville Armory\n610 Reisterstown Rd.\, Pikesville \nNoon to 2:30 p.m. \nRegistration: $18 per participant \nRefreshments provided \nClick here to register\nStudents who attend will have the opportunity to enter the Amplify Scholarship Contest\, which will award $10\,500 in scholarships. First place winners in each discipline (writing\, photo/video and social media) will each receive $2\,500. Second place winners will win $1\,000 each. URL:https://www.baltjc.org/event/amplify-the-jewish-media-project/ LOCATION:Pikesville Armory\, 610 Reisterstown Road\, Baltimore\, MD\, 21208\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260210T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260210T094500 DTSTAMP:20260407T043704 CREATED:20260128T144656Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260128T173335Z UID:20433-1770712200-1770716700@www.baltjc.org SUMMARY:Who will the Chosen People Choose? A preview of the Israeli elections DESCRIPTION:Who will the Chosen People Choose? A preview of the Israeli elections \nTuesday\, February 10 | 8:30 – 9:45 a.m. \nPearlstone Boardroom\, The Associated \nWhile we don’t yet have a date for the Israeli elections\, we know that they will take place at some point this year. As they approach\, the BJC will be offering a series of programs exploring the key issues of concern to the Israeli public as they prepare to go to the polls. \nJoin us for a preview of what is to come at breakfast with Jared Goldfarb\, an independent Israeli educator and tour guide\, who will share his thoughts on the political figures\, parties and messaging that will shape the elections. \nKosher breakfast provided. \n  \nRegister Here URL:https://www.baltjc.org/event/who-will-the-chosen-people-choose-a-preview-of-the-israeli-elections-with-jared-goldfarb/ LOCATION:The Associated\, 5700 Park Heights Avenue\, Baltimore\, MD\, 21215\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Kate McDonald":MAILTO:kmcdonald@baltjc.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260308T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260308T170000 DTSTAMP:20260407T043704 CREATED:20251113T184309Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T213800Z UID:20233-1772982000-1772989200@www.baltjc.org SUMMARY:The Cure For Hate DESCRIPTION:Join the Baltimore Jewish Council for a screening of the 55-minute film The Cure For Hate\, followed by a conversation with Tony McAleer and the film’s director\, Peter Hutchison. \nTony McAleer has spent over a decade helping others to understand the dynamics of hate. He should know: in the 1980s\, he was deeply involved in the neo-Nazi White Aryan Resistance\, anti-immigrant activism\, Holocaust denial and street violence. In the 1990s\, he attracted increasing notoriety through a series of publicity stunts and by running a white supremacist phone line. \nHis pathway back was a long\, lonely and difficult one – an experience that led to him and a small group of other formers to create the organization Life After Hate in order to help others exit hate groups with more support and greater success. \nThis powerful film follows former Skinhead and Holocaust denier\, Tony McAleer on his journey of t’shuvah and atonement at Auschwitz/Birkenau. It serves as a compelling and timely tool for educating audiences on the dangers of unchecked hate\, the roots of extremist ideology\, and how compassion can replace fear — lessons that feel especially urgent today. \nThe film and conversation will be held at Chizuk Amuno Congregation\, 8100 Stevenson Road\, Pikesville. \nClick here to register. URL:https://www.baltjc.org/event/the-cure-for-hate/ LOCATION:Chizuk Amuno Congregation\, 8100 Stevenson Rd\, Baltimore\, MD\, Baltimore\, MD\, 21208\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260412T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260412T170000 DTSTAMP:20260407T043704 CREATED:20260209T170814Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260312T160029Z UID:20461-1776006000-1776013200@www.baltjc.org SUMMARY:Yom HaShoah 2026 DESCRIPTION:Sunday\, April 12\, 2026 \n3:00 p.m. \nChizuk Amuno Congregation | 8100 Stevenson Road\, Baltimore\, MD \nPlease save the date for this year’s community wide Yom HaShoah Commemoration. We will be joined by Director and Curator of the Ritchie History Museum\, Katy Self\, to learn about Maryland’s own Fort Ritchie\, home of the renowned Ritchie Boys\, and many others who were dedicated to serving their country throughout World War II. \nClick here to register for the program.\nLearn more about the Ritchie History Museum URL:https://www.baltjc.org/event/yom-hashoah-2026/ LOCATION:Chizuk Amuno Congregation\, 8100 Stevenson Rd\, Baltimore\, MD\, Baltimore\, MD\, 21208\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Emily Goodman":MAILTO:egoodman@baltjc.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260421T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260421T183000 DTSTAMP:20260407T043704 CREATED:20260313T143813Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T175447Z UID:20525-1776792600-1776796200@www.baltjc.org SUMMARY:Yom HaZikaron 2026: Remembering Those We Lost DESCRIPTION:Join BJC for Yom HaZikaron 2026: Remembering Those We Lost with Baltimore’s Shinshinim and Shlichim \nTuesday\, April 21\, 2026 | 5:30-6:30PM \nLocation shared upon registration. \nREGISTER HERE \nJoin The Associated\, Jewish Educational Services\, Pearlstone\, and The Baltimore Jewish Council for an evening of commemoration and storytelling for Yom HaZikaron. Honor the memory of Israelis who were killed in acts of terror or who fell in battle through hearing their stories from the perspective of those who knew them. Then mark with us the transition from Yom HaZikaron to Yom HaAtzmaut\, as we remember that our celebration of Israel’s independence is inseparable from the sacrifices that made it possible. \nQuestions? Contact Kate McDonald (kmcdonald@baltjc.org). \n  URL:https://www.baltjc.org/event/yom-hazikaron-2026-remembering-those-we-lost/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260426T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260426T180000 DTSTAMP:20260407T043704 CREATED:20260217T011959Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260324T153206Z UID:20476-1777219200-1777226400@www.baltjc.org SUMMARY:Generations of Courage DESCRIPTION:Generations of Courage:\nFrom Refuseniks to Today’s Campus Struggle\n  \nRAFFLE for great door prizes! Apple Earbuds\, JBL mini speaker\, etc!\n—\nGREAT TREATS! (Dietary laws observed.) \nLimited number of free books for attendees*!\n—\n\n \nWhat does it mean to refuse antizionist erasure — to remain Jewish\, Zionist\, visible\, and connected to our story — when the pressure to conform keeps rising? \nJoin us for an inspiring conversation about Jewish courage\, defiance\, and resilience. \nAuthor Izabella Tabarovsky brings the insights of her acclaimed book Be a Refusenik to Baltimore. Drawing on the moral clarity of the refusenik movement\, the book offers a powerful\, practical framework for navigating today’s climate of anti-Jewish ideological coercion. \nJoined by former refusenik Aleksander Smukler and one of this generation’s leading Jewish voices\, Eyal Yakoby\, the conversation explores what it takes to stand firm\, refuse to bend under pressure\, and affirm the full spectrum of Jewish identity in our time. Rabbi Moshe Schwartz will moderate the program. \n\nSunday\, April 26\, 2026\n4 p.m. to 6 p.m.\,\nThe Associated Headquarters on the Goldsmith Campus\, 5700 Park Heights Avenue\, Baltimore\n\nClick here to register for the program.\n\nABOUT THE SPEAKERS\nIzabella Tabarovsky is a scholar of Soviet antizionism and contemporary antisemitism\, a sought-after speaker and lecturer\, and the author of the forthcoming book Be a Refusenik: A Jewish Student’s Survival Guide (Wicked Son). She is a fellow with the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars in Washington\, DC; a senior fellow with the Z3 Institute for Jewish Priorities in Palo Alto; and a fellow with the Comper Center for the Study of Antisemitism and Racism at the University of Haifa\, the London Centre for the Study of Contemporary Antisemitism\, and the Jerusalem Center for Security and Foreign Affairs. \nA contributing writer at Tablet Magazine\, she has also published in Newsweek\, Sapir\, Quillette\, The National Interest\, Fathom\, The Forward\, and the Jewish Telegraphic Agency. Her essays have appeared in several edited volumes\, including October 7: The Wars over Words and Deeds (Academic Studies Press); The Rebirth of Antisemitism in the 21st Century: From the Academic Boycott Campaign into the Mainstream (Routledge); Mapping the New Left Antisemitism: The Fathom Essays (Routledge); Sionismo y antisionismo: Un debate necesario (RiL editores); and Jewish Priorities: Sixty-Five Proposals for the Future of Our People (Wicked Son). Her work has been translated into Spanish\, French\, Portuguese\, German\, Polish\, Russian\, Czech\, and other languages. \nBorn and raised in the Soviet Union\, Izabella moved to the United States in 1989 at the age of 19. She holds an MA in History from Harvard University. She speaks Russian\, English\, and Hebrew\, and has studied Spanish\, French\, and German. She lives in Jerusalem\, Israel. \nAlexander “Sasha” Smukler is a former refusenik who advocated for the rights of Jews in the former Soviet Union. He left the Soviet Union in 1991 and moved to the United States\, where\, as a successful businessman he became a prominent member of the American Jewish community and continued his activism on behalf of Jews from the former Soviet Union. Smukler was elected as the first Russian/American president of National Coalition Supporting Eurasian Jewry (formerly the National Conference on Soviet Jewry\, NCSJ) in 2008. He was a protege and friend of Baltimore’s own Shoshana Cardin who was the first chairwoman of the board of the NCSJ (now NCSEJ)\, and chairwoman of the Conference of Presidents of Major Jewish Organizations. \nEyal Yakoby is a recent graduate of the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in Political Science and Modern Middle East Studies and an incoming student at MIT. Eyal was a student at UPenn last year during the campus protests that ended in violence and intimidation of Jewish students. He spoke at a House Congressional leadership press conference in 2023 and testified before the House Judiciary Committee in 2024 as a witness to the violence and harassment of Jewish students. Eyal appears in October H8te\, a new documentary on rising antisemitism on college campuses\, social media\, and the streets of America. He has appeared on TV networks\, including CNN\, ABC\, and Fox\, and has contributed to publications such as The Washington Post and The New York Post. \nRabbi Moshe Schwartz (moderator) has served as head of school of Krieger Schechter Day School since 2015. \nABOUT THE BOOK\nBe a Refusenik: A Jewish Student’s Survival Guide\nWhat does it mean to refuse antizionist erasure — to remain Jewish\, Zionist\, visible\, and morally grounded — when the cost of doing so keeps rising? Jewish students on campuses today face mounting pressure to stay silent\, conform\, or disavow central parts of who they are: their Zionism\, their bond with Israel\, and their place in the Jewish people’s larger story. \nIn her bestselling book Be a Refusenik: A Jewish Student’s Survival Guide\, Izabella Tabarovsky draws a powerful parallel between this moment and the struggle of young Soviet Jews half a century ago. Known as refuseniks\, they stood up to an oppressive regime intent on erasing Jewish identity—and by refusing to comply\, they changed history. \nDrawing on the lessons of the refusenik movement\, Be a Refusenik offers a bold\, practical\, and inspiring guide for a new generation of Jews confronting antizionist intimidation\, ideological litmus tests\, and antisemitism on today’s campuses. Blending history\, moral clarity\, and real-world strategy\, the book speaks directly to students—and to the communities that support them. \n*Books sponsor: Jewish Alumni Strong \nClick here to register for the program. URL:https://www.baltjc.org/event/generations-of-courage/ LOCATION:Associated\, Goldsmith Campus\, 5700 Park Heights Avenue\, Baltimore\, MD\, 21215\, United States END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260503T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260503T170000 DTSTAMP:20260407T043704 CREATED:20260320T164356Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260325T152555Z UID:20549-1777820400-1777827600@www.baltjc.org SUMMARY:A Jewish Girl in Shanghai: Film Screening and Panel Discussion DESCRIPTION:Interested in the diversity of the Jewish experience? Like niche history? \nJoin the Baltimore Jewish Council for a screening of the animated film ‘A Jewish Girl in Shanghai.’ \nSunday\, May 3\, 2026\n3-5 p.m.\nThe Associated’s Goldsmith Campus\, 5700 Park Heights Avenue\, Baltimore \nREGISTER HERE\nAfter the film screening\, participants will hear from a speaker panel featuring current Holocaust Remembrance Committee member\, Lisa Sparks\, whose mother\, Yvonne Daniel\, was born in the Shanghai Ghetto to parents who had fled Nazi-occupied Europe. Yvonne’s story was a part of the Jewish Museum of Maryland’s prior exhibit on the Jews of Shanghai. Lisa will join in facilitated conversation with Beth Israel Congregation’s Rabbi Rachel Safman. \nSpeakers:\nRabbi Rachel Safman joined Beth Israel Congregation as its senior rabbi in July 2023\, returning to her home state to lead a community that shared her people-centered approach to Jewish life. \nA native of Gaithersburg\, Maryland\, where she attended and taught in the congregation now known as Kehillat Shalom\, Rabbi Safman first trained for a career in academia\, studying at Harvard\, Johns Hopkins and Cornell.  She wrote her dissertation on the AIDS epidemic in Northern Thailand and after graduation joined the faculty of the National University of Singapore. \nDuring her years in Singapore\, Rabbi Safman served as the president of the city-state’s progressive Jewish community\, the United Hebrew Congregation; was an active participant in the ritual life of Singapore’s Baghdadi Orthodox community; and co-founded Gesher\, a Jewish community forum that hosted eminent guest speakers\, including Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsieng Loong. \n  \n \nLisa Daniel Sparks moved to Baltimore at age 7 (after being born in NYC and then\, living in NJ)\, so she considers Maryland home (to the dismay of her native New Yorker parents!). After graduating with a BA in Mass Communications from University of Delaware and a master’s in professional writing from Towson University\, Lisa has worked in writing and editing for her entire career. Lisa is currently the Communications & Marketing Manager for the Johns Hopkins Information Technology team and has been with Johns Hopkins since 1997. She’s served on The Soul Center of Baltimore’s Launch Team for the past few years and serves as a mikvah guide at Beth El congregation. She joined the Holocaust Remembrance Committee as a way to honor and share her mother’s unusual Holocaust story. Lisa and her husband\, Erik\, have been married since 1993. They are the proud parents of Maddie (27)\, Max (25)\, and their adorable yet slightly crazy dogs\, Monty and Minnie. Lisa loves working out (she’s a Peloton addict)\, yoga\, reading\, and traveling. \n  \n  \n  \nLight kosher fare will be provided. Registration is highly encouraged. \n  \n“A Jewish Girl in Shanghai” is set primarily in the Shanghai Ghetto during the Japanese occupation in World War II. The film follows Rina\, a young Jewish girl\, and her younger brother Mishalli\, who have fled Europe in search of safety but are separated from their parents. They encounter A-Gen\, a Chinese orphan boy who helps them navigate the challenges of their new life in Shanghai. Together\, they form a strong bond and face the dangers posed by the occupying forces\, including the Japanese army and their Nazi allies. \nThis film is notable for being the first animated Chinese film to address the Holocaust\, marking an important step in fostering Jewish-Chinese relations. It has been well-received both in China and internationally\, praised for its sensitive portrayal of the experiences of Jewish refugees in Shanghai\, a city that served as a haven for many during the war.  \n  \n  URL:https://www.baltjc.org/event/a-jewish-girl-in-shanghai-film-screening-and-panel-discussion/ LOCATION:Associated\, Goldsmith Campus\, 5700 Park Heights Avenue\, Baltimore\, MD\, 21215\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Megan Brantley":MAILTO:mbrantley@baltjc.org END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260513T173000 DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260513T190000 DTSTAMP:20260407T043704 CREATED:20260325T181001Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260326T165507Z UID:20573-1778693400-1778698800@www.baltjc.org SUMMARY:The Voter Hub: No Speeches\, Just Conversations (Candidate Carnival 2026) DESCRIPTION:Join the Baltimore Jewish Council for an informal candidate carnival\, where voters and candidates can connect to discuss policy positions ahead of the 2026 election season.\n\nMay 13 – 5:30-7 p.m. – The Associated\, Goldsmith Campus\nInvitees: \n\nState Districts – 10\, 11 & 41\nBaltimore County Council Districts – 2\, 3 & 4\nBaltimore City Sheriff\nBaltimore County Sheriff\n\nRegister Here\n  URL:https://www.baltjc.org/event/voter-hub-2026/ LOCATION:The Associated\, 5700 Park Heights Avenue\, Baltimore\, MD\, 21215\, United States ORGANIZER;CN="Abigail Snyder ":MAILTO:asnyder@baltjc.org END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR