This April, we held our first Jewish Heritage Day. The event was attended by staff, members of the board, and resident committee members.
Held at JW3, London’s vibrant Jewish community centre, the event provided a rare opportunity to understand the diverse Jewish experience in the UK today. It also celebrated IDS’s Jewish heritage, which originated over 140 years ago with the establishment of the Four Per Cent Dwellings Company by a group of Jewish philanthropists to relieve the overcrowding of homes in the East End of London.
The event included activities and talks that highlighted many different aspects of Jewish life and culture. It was hosted by the Jewish comedian Rachel Creeger who also answered everyone’s questions about Jewish life. The day included:
- Learning about Jewish customs, practices, festivals and values from Rabbi Liss, Highgate Synagogue
- Hearing about the history of the Rothschild Buildings in Spitalfields from a London historian, with recordings of the voices of past residents.
- A conversation with current IDS residents – both Jewish and not
- Making challah bread, a traditional Jewish bread eaten on the sabbath and festivals
- A presentation on anti-semitism from the Community Security Trust
- A panel discussion with IDS partners, Jewish Care and Kisharon Langdon
This immersive experience provided staff with a unique chance to learn, connect, and ask questions.
One Jewish Heritage Day participant said, “Regardless of race, colour or religion, basically we are all human with feelings and a loaf of bread.”
Another noted: “The exposure to traditions, food, and religious practices significantly enhanced my understanding of Jewish culture. Equally important, though often less emphasised, was the recognition of the substantial contributions made by Jewish communities to the British economic landscape.”
Jewish Heritage Day will continue as an annual cultural event in our staff calendar to re-enforce our history, values and community identity.
If any residents or staff are interested in contributing to next year’s event, please do get in touch.