The theme of this year”s European Days of Jewish Culture (EDJC) will be “Memory” and will feature events in multiple countries in the fall, starting in September.
The EDJC is an annual event that celebrates Jewish culture, history, and heritage. It is organized by the European Association for the Preservation and Promotion of Jewish Culture and Heritage (AEPJ), the European Council of Jewish Communities, B’nai B’rith Europe, and local foundations within each participating country.
This year’s focus, “Memory,” emphasizes the importance of preserving and sharing the memories of Jewish communities throughout Europe.
With events taking place in more than 30 countries from September 3rd to November 2023, the EDJC offers an opportunity for people of all backgrounds to engage with Jewish culture, learn from the past, and inspire a more inclusive future.
Those planning to travel to Europe for the EDJC should remember that to visit many European countries, a Schengen Visa may be required, depending on your passport. On the other hand, Israeli passport holders enjoy visa-free entry to the EU and most other European nations. The Importance of Memory in Jewish Tradition
Jewish tradition places a strong emphasis on the power of memory to shape personal and collective identities. This year’s theme, “Memory,” aims to highlight the importance of remembering the past as a means of fostering understanding and empathy.
By preserving the memories of Jewish communities across Europe, the EDJC seeks to ensure that the stories of the Jewish people continue to be heard, shared, and celebrated.
In a text provided by D&eacutesir&eacutee Mayer, President JECJ-Lorraine and Honorary President JECPJ-France, she describes the importance of this year”s theme:
“Collective or individual, through history or narrative, Memory is the crucible in which Judaism was forged. It is through memory that it is maintained and transmitted.”
Engaging with the past and embracing the stories and memories of the Jewish people can help to inspire a brighter, more inclusive future for all. This year”s program
The 2023 EDJC program will offer a diverse range of events, including concerts, exhibitions, workshops, and guided tours, showcasing the breadth and depth of Jewish culture in Europe.
Among the many planned events are a photographic exhibition in Paris, an online exhibition on International Holocaust Remembrance Day, and a Remembrance seminar in the Netherlands.
Romania”s Tarbut Foundation has announced that it will focus on the following themes within the “Memory” umbrella:
* Creating bridges among local & Jewish Communities Jewish life in the diaspora Jewish storytelling Jewish life in Marmaures Pre-WW II Jewish women through history
2023 will mark the first time that the EDJC takes place under the EU”s Citizens, Equality, Rights, and Values Programme (CERV). CERV has provided funding of &euro486,760 for this year”s edition of the EDJC. About the EDJC
The European Days of Jewish Culture is part of a collaborative effort between the AEPJ (under the Council of Europe), the European Union (EU), and the National Library of Israel, which provides resources and educational materials.
The EDJC started off in 1999 as a single-day event. It has grown over the past two decades, and this year will include events from early September all the way through to November.
It is now Europe”s most successful cross-border Jewish cultural initiative, with events taking place in many European countries, including France, Belgium, and Romania.
Each year, a central theme is chosen. This theme inspires all the activities that take place. Previous years” themes have included “Jewish Journeys”, “Renewal”, “Storytelling”, and “Diasporas”. Events are organized by Jewish foundations in each country from the first Sunday in September. Local groups can apply to organize an official event to be featured on the program through the AEPJ website.
At the heart of the EDJC is the belief that engaging with Jewish culture and history can foster greater understanding between people of different backgrounds. By providing a platform for dialogue and learning, the EDJC seeks to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and promote a more inclusive and tolerant society.
The EDJC places a strong emphasis on engaging young people, as they are the future custodians of cultural heritage.
Through educational programs, youth-focused events, and partnerships with schools and universities, the EDJC aims to inspire the next generation to learn about and embrace Jewish history and culture.
The European Days of Jewish Culture 2023 promises to be an interesting and powerful experience. The focus on “Memory” serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and sharing the stories of the past. By remembering and learning from history, we can work together to build a more inclusive, understanding, and compassionate future.