This week, our community came together in a display of unity and support for the Bibas family. The Federation hosted an event last Sunday, a heartfelt response to the tragic news of Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir’s murder in captivity. In Israel, thousands lined the streets, wearing orange in their memory. The outpouring of love and solidarity from Jewish Edmonton and communities around the world serves as a reminder of the strength we find in one another. We took a moment to pause and grieve as one nation.
While grief surfaces because of the hostages, there are reasons to rejoice and celebrate our Jewish pride. Genesis Edmonton has had a successful year. We are excited to engage young Jewish adults in Edmonton, who are the future of our community. We appreciate Davina Eisenstadt’s work as co-chair, and we’re happy to introduce Leigh Goldman as her successor.
Genesis reached significant milestones. Our gatherings have consistently attracted strong attendance, with many fresh faces joining us. We financed a night of lazer tag with Moishe House Without Walls through the Federation’s microgrants program, hosted a successful Edmonton Jewish Film Festival event titled Less Than Kosher, and organized a Board Game Night for Tu Ba’av. A Farm-to-Table brunch highlighted local produce and culinary talent as well as gave a chance for participants to visit with horses. Our support extended to a Hillel House Hanukkah event for young adults (40 attendees, aged 18-30), plus two Pride events: a Tu’Bishvat celebration at VISH and one with Jonathan Elkhoury.
Looking ahead to 2025, we are holding our first event on Saturday, March 1, a mixology class and Havdallah. You can buy tickets online. On March 12, we will support Hillel by hosting a public lecture by Ben M. Freeman at the University of Alberta. A professional networking night is in the works for the spring/summer.
Let’s collaborate to make 2025 even better than the previous year. If you are interested in volunteering or joining our committee, please reach out to Jacqueline Medalye at jmedalye@edjfed.org.
Shabbat Shalom,
Rayna Lew and Leigh Goldman