In the pages of Yiddish novels, in the meter of Yiddish rhyme, in the lights of the Yiddish stage, in the scales of Klezmer and the swing of Yiddish radio, in the scent of cooling kugl, in the protest signs of labor movements, in the evolution of words, and in the subtleties of Yiddish humor exist answers to what it means to be Jewish. For Jews with Eastern-European heritage, understanding the riches and history of Yiddish culture leads to a deep and strong Jewish identity based in the cultural and historical achievements of a thousand years of Jewish civilization. Once ubiquitous, this pathway to Jewish identity is now revolutionary, an alternative to the narrative provided by the present-day mainstream Jewish community.
Every winter, the Folks-Grupe (literally: People’s Group) and Meyvn Grupe meet nine times to explore the Jewish experience as seen in Yiddish literature, theater, music, film, food, politics, history and humor. Fellows will be surrounded by Yiddish culture, learning from both premier scholars and an older generation of native speakers, providing a sense of historical perspective. Applicants do not need to speak, read, or write Yiddish. Though the entire fellowship will be conducted in English (and all materials will be in translation), each session will include a brief lesson on Yiddish language. Fellows will also work together to create an online Journal, sharing their video, audio, photographs, and writings — helping to document and preserve Yiddish culture.
Yiddishkayt invites you to cross the bridge of generations and become fluent in the culture of your ancestors.
