To all those who celebrate, I wish you a new year filled with peace, prosperity, and optimism for all the blessings in store. Shana Tova! For those of you unfamiliar with this holiday, today is the second day of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. It is a High Holy Day in the Jewish faith and is followed by the holiest day, Yom Kippur, or the Day of Atonement.

The Baltimore Metropolitan Area is fortunate to be home to a historically large and thriving Jewish Community. While our Jewish brothers and sisters sound the shofar, my thoughts turn to the many contributions that they have made to arts and culture here at home and around the world.

And, at a time when we are too focused on our differences and the things that pull us apart, it is essential that we make space to know one another better. The Jewish Museum of Maryland provides an exciting perspective for learning about history and culture. Their mission–“We connect people to Jewish experiences and Maryland’s Jewish community to its roots. We inspire everyone to explore history, take action, and imagine a better future”–creates an opportunity for all of us to engage and learn about the individuals and communities who have contributed to the religious, educational, business, philanthropic, cultural, and scientific life of our state.

In addition to events and exhibitions, the museum has virtual resources for educators. There are tools for students to learn about Judiasm, immigration, The Holocaust, Baltimore history, and more. Watch JMM’s website for the resumption of in-person programming and the opportunity to visit two historic synagogues, the Lloyd Street Synagogue and B’nai Israel or you can take a virtual tour today!

Here’s to a sweet New Year,

Jeannie