Making Meaning of Jewish-American Identity and the Intergenerational Impact of the Holocaust
Description
When you think of your Jewish-American identity, what comes to mind? Matzoh ball soup? Lighting the menorah? Wry humor? A questioning nature? Melodies and prayers that feel both ancient and modern? All the above? This class will explore multiple facets of Jewish-American identity, including the role of family and ritual. We will probe ideas of faith and how it is passed down (or if it wasn’t), along with the continuing impact of the Holocaust across generations. My memoir, More Than Matzoh Balls: My Search for Jewish-American Identity, will serve as the foundation for a conversation that will offer plenty of food for thought. I also weave in the story of my in-laws, who were Holocaust survivors. Through my unique story and facilitated discussion, we will explore universal themes of the search for meaning and belonging.
.
.
.
Linda Brody Bakst is the author of More Than Matzoh Balls: My Search for Jewish-American Identity. After a career in education policy, Linda retired to pursue her passion: writing. Throughout her work life, Linda composed numerous policy memos and reports, but she believed she had stories to share, especially about growing up in Brooklyn. She started a memoir blog called Stories I Tell Myself. Linda has published essays in the online journal Trolley, the Albany Times-Union, and has twice been a finalist for the Brooklyn Nonfiction Prize.
FAQs
- Who are these classes for?
Our classes are for everyone—whether you’re brand new to the topic or have been engaging with it for years, we encourage participation from people of all backgrounds, identities, and experience levels. Unless otherwise noted, no prior knowledge or experience is needed. Not sure if a class is for you? Email us at Learning@Lehr.haus!
- Why are there tickets at different prices?
Our tickets utilize a Pay-What-You-Can model so attendees can pay a range of prices based on what they are able to pay to allow for greater accessibility. Please select the price point that feels right for you.
- Can I eat during class?
While we do not serve food in the study, you are welcome to order and enjoy drinks during class and join us for a meal before or after class. We highly recommend making a reservation if you know you'll be dining with us. Visit www.lehr.haus/reservation to check availability and book a table.
- Getting to Lehrhaus?
Street parking is readily available on Washington Street or Beacon Street (Map). The meters all take quarters or can be paid through the ParkBoston or ParkMobile apps. The closest T stops are Union Square (Green Line D & E, 0.8 mile walk, or #109 bus) and Harvard Square (Red Line, 0.8 mile walk, or the #109 bus). There is a bus stop just out front, on Washington (#83 and #109).
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity















