The Leonard Gilman Lecture on Jewish Culture: "Feeling Jewish: Nostalgia and American Jewish Religion"

Wed, January 24, 2024 5:30 PM - Wed, January 24, 2024 7:00 PM at JMC Library, 332 Case Hall (3rd floor)

See flyer for more detail.

American Jews tell stories about who they are and where they come from through a range of everyday objectsand supposedly secular organizations. Religious studies professor Rachel B. Gross examines the ways manyAmerican Jews express longing for Eastern European heritage through artisanal delis, children’s books anddolls, historic synagogues, and Jewish genealogy. These nostalgic activities can be understood as religiouspractices, illuminating how many American Jews are finding and making meaning today. This analysis points tothe limits and possibilities of nostalgia, including challenges in embracing diversity among American Jews.

In-person attendance is encouraged, however, this event will be live-streamed and recorded on their YouTube Channel.

Sponsored by The Michael and Elaine Serling Insitute for Jewish Studies and Modern Isreal.

Co-Sponsors:  College of Arts & Letters, College of Social Science, Department of History, Department of Religious Studies, International Studies & Programs, James Madison College, Office for Institutional Diversity and Inclusion, and Residential College in the Arts & Humanities.