מעין

‫י‬
M
A
‫מעין‬
T h e Jewish W o m e n ' s P r o j e c t
a program of the J C C
1
on t h e U p p e r W e s t Side
MA'YA N
15 West 65th Street
New York, NY 10023-6694
tel 212.580.0099
fax 212. 580.9498
e-mail [email protected]
http://mayan.org
Ma'yan
acts as a catalyst for change in the Jewish
community in order to create an environment
more inclusive of and responsive to women, their
needs and their experiences. M a ' y a n facilitates
this transformation through advocacy and the
development and dissemination of innovative
rituals and educational programs.
J
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J u d a i s m teaches t h a t blessings ensue f r o m every j o u r n e y . O n Rosb
A
Hashanab,
each o f us m a r k s a n o t h e r stage i n o u r p e r s o n a l j o u r n e y b y u n d e r t a k i n g the
process o f t'shuva,
r e t u r n i n g t o ourselves a n d t o o u r sense o f the D i v i n e .
D u r i n g the Passover seder w e relive the core c o m m u n a l j o u r n e y o f o u r people
b y r e t e l l i n g the s t o r y o f the E x o d u s f r o m E g y p t . L i f e cycle events s u c h as
britlbaby
n a m i n g a n d B a r / B a t M i t z v a h tie t o g e t h e r o u r p e r s o n a l , c o m m u n a l
a n d historical journeys.
M a ' y a n , t o o , is a b o u t j o u r n e y i n g . O u r s is one t h a t encompasses b o t h
t h e p e r s o n a l a n d the c o m m u n a l . I n n a m i n g t h i s p u b l i c a t i o n , w e h a d i n m i n d
o u r progress as a n o r g a n i z a t i o n , t h e p e r s o n a l j o u r n e y s o f a l l o f y o u w h o
i n t e r a c t w i t h us, as w e l l as the v o y a g e o f t h e J e w i s h c o m m u n i t y as a w h o l e as
i t travels t o w a r d s a m o r e i n c l u s i v e a n d i n t e g r a t e d f u t u r e .
M a ' y a n ' s f i r s t p r o g r a m , a f e m i n i s t seder h e l d i n M a r c h 1 9 9 3 , w a s a n
a p p r o p r i a t e b e g i n n i n g f o r a n o r g a n i z a t i o n t h a t strives t o h e l p J e w i s h w o m e n
c h a r t t h e i r o w n paths. W e n o w f i n d ourselves f o u r years l a t e r a n d d u r i n g t h e
m o n t h o f Elul,
the t r a d i t i o n a l t i m e f o r t'shuva
(return), ready to introduce
y o u t o the n e x t stage o f o u r o r g a n i z a t i o n a l life.
T h i s j o u r n a l is one o f M a ' y a n ' s n e w a p p r o a c h e s t o a c c o m p l i s h i n g o u r
m i s s i o n , e x p a n d i n g o u r r e a c h a n d a c h i e v i n g a n even greater i m p a c t .
Journey
is a n e d u c a t i o n a l a n d t r a n s f o r m a t i o n a l t o o l . W e h o p e t h a t y o u w i l l use i t t o
motivate yourself, y o u r f a m i l y a n d your c o m m u n i t y t o further integrate
w o m e n i n t o Jewish life and practice.
M a ' y a n b r i n g s t o this n e w p r o j e c t the same s p i r i t a n d i n t e n t i o n t h a t w e
have b r o u g h t t o every w o r k s h o p , class a n d p r o g r a m w e h a v e o f f e r e d t h u s far.
L i k e o u r events, Journey
w i l l p r o v i d e a n arena f o r s h a r i n g a n d c h a l l e n g i n g
n e w ideas. T h r o u g h its w o r d s w e a i m t o o f f e r s t r e n g t h , i n s p i r a t i o n a n d
i n f o r m a t i o n . F u r t h e r m o r e , w e see i t as a w a y t o give y o u t h e o p p o r t u n i t y t o
u t i l i z e , i n y o u r o w n space a n d t i m e , some o f t h e e d u c a t i o n a l m a t e r i a l s ,
r i t u a l s , a n d resources t h a t w e have p r e v i o u s l y d i s s e m i n a t e d t h r o u g h o u r
w o r k s h o p s a n d classes.
T h r e e times a year Journey
w i l l focus o n v a r i o u s avenues f o r
t r a n s f o r m i n g the J e w i s h c o m m u n i t y i n t o o n e t h a t is f u l l y i n c l u s i v e o f a n d
responsive t o J e w i s h w o m e n . W e w i l l share n e w a p p r o a c h e s t o i n t e g r a t i n g
w o m e n ' s experiences a n d f e m i n i s t i n s i g h t i n t o the c e l e b r a t i o n o f J e w i s h
h o l i d a y s a n d l i f e cycle events. W e w i l l i n c l u d e the voices o f w o m e n w h o
m o d e l change t h r o u g h g r o u n d - b r e a k i n g e f f o r t s i n t h e i r o w n c o m m u n i t i e s .
W e w i l l e x a m i n e aspects o f J e w i s h c o m m u n a l l i f e i n need o f change, f o r
example: Jewish education; f u n d i n g priorities; organizational leadership;
and board composition. These pages will also keep you informed about
ongoing programming and available resources.
This first issue focuses on the themes of Elul and the High Holidays.
It suggests ways to use this traditional time of self examination to inspire
change in ourselves, our communities and the world. The issue is structured
around the core concepts of t'shuva — repentance or return, t'filla — prayer
or service, and tzedaka — charity or justice work. Each section suggests new
ways to act on these central principles of the High Holiday season. Our
intent is to present you with options so that you can select those that carry
the most meaning and possibility for you.
Four years into our life as an organization, M a ' y a n stands like Miriam
at the shores of the rejoined Red Sea. We have danced with you for many
nights now. The dancing has been full of the joy of re-discovering and
rejuvenating ancient ritual and teachings. The dancing could go on and
on. Yet there is still a great distance to travel. We have yet to become a
community fully responsive to women and reflective of women's needs. We
have yet to reach the promise of a Judaism that integrates women's lives and
experiences. We will continue to dance. We must also continue to journey.
Your feedback and ideas are welcome. M a y the N e w Year bring you
sweetness and strength.
Eve Landau, Executive Director; Ma'yan
Tamara Cohen, Program Director
Coraline Dahlin, Office Manager
Barbara Dobkin, Founder and Chair
Erika Katske, Summer Intern
Ruth Silverman, Special Events Director
Karen Taylor; Summer Intern
Debby Hirshman, Executive Director;
J C C on the Upper W e s t Side
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renewing ourselves and our visions in the month of Elul
T h e Jewish m o n t h of Elul is t r a d i t i o n a l l y a t i m e for personal r e f l e c t i o n a n d
s p i r i t u a l p r e p a r a t i o n for the N e w Year. It offers a structured o p p o r t u n i t y t o
e x a m i n e w h a t is h o l d i n g us back f r o m being w h o we really w a n t t o be. If w e
use the p e r i o d o f Elul t o take concrete steps t o w a r d s b e c o m i n g advocates f o r
change, together we can m a k e 5758 a year i n w h i c h we make a difference!
t r a d i t i o n T h e w o r d Elul can be u n d e r s t o o d as an a c r o n y m f o r the H e b r e w
verse Ani L'dodi
V'dodi
Li, " I a m f o r m y beloved a n d m y beloved is f o r m e . "
suggestion T h i n k a b o u t y o u r r e l a t i o n s h i p w i t h whatever y o u conceive o f as
the D i v i n e Presence. T r y t o i m a g i n e a m o r e i n t i m a t e relationship, as i f G o d
were y o u r beloved. Y o u m i g h t w a n t t o w r i t e a letter addressed t o this
Beloved i n w h i c h y o u speak as y o u w o u l d t o a close friend. Y o u m a y w a n t
t o h o n o r yourself as " c r e a t e d i n God's i m a g e " by t r e a t i n g yourself as y o u
w o u l d treat a beloved.
t r a d i t i o n The t'shuva
process operates o n t w o levels, one i n v o l v i n g h u m a n
relationships a n d the other i n v o l v i n g o u r relationship w i t h G o d . A c c o r d i n g
t o t r a d i t i o n , one resolves h u m a n relationships d u r i n g Elul by asking
forgiveness f o r w r o n g doings. I f one earnestly asks three times, the o b l i g a t i o n
is f u l f i l l e d .
suggestion As p a r t of y o u r t'shuva
process t r y t o sort o u t d i f f i c u l t
relationships ( w i t h people, organizations) t h a t d r a i n y o u of y o u r creative
energy. T h i n k a b o u t w h a t k i n d o f closure y o u need in order t o m o v e
f o r w a r d i n t o the n e x t year.
t r a d i t i o n T h e sbofar
(ram's h o r n ) is b l o w n at the c o n c l u s i o n o f every
w e e k d a y m o r n i n g prayer service d u r i n g
Elul.
suggestion Use this m o n t h t o listen f o r the shofar's
r o u s i n g call. Carve o u t
some t i m e t o t h i n k t h r o u g h the k i n d s o f changes y o u w a n t t o m a k e i n the
c o m i n g year. W h a t ' s h o l d i n g y o u back?
t r a d i t i o n Psalm 27, w h i c h begins with the w o r d s " G o d is m y light and
m y helper, w h o m shall I f e a r ? " is recited every d a y f r o m Rosh
(the beginning of the month) t h r o u g h the middle of Sukkot
Chodesb
Elul
(the Festival
of Booths).
suggestion H o n o r the fact that change can involve fear. T h i n k a b o u t
keeping an Elul journal to help revive y o u r internal dialogue. Y o u m a y w a n t
to use some or all of Psalm 27 or the M a r g e Piercy p o e m reprinted here as a
departure point for meditation and/or writing. B o o k s like The Artist's
Way
by Julia C a m e r o n m a y also be useful tools.
tradition Kol Nidrei
(the first prayer recited on the eve of Yom
Kippur)
serves to annul all existing v o w s and prepare us to begin the N e w Year with
a clean slate. T h e Al Cheyt prayer enumerates the specific w a y s w e have
missed the m a r k .
suggestion Take some time to re-evaluate y o u r participation in the
community. Try t o be m o r e conscious of h o w y o u spend y o u r time a n d
money. D o y o u r calendar and c h e c k b o o k reflect y o u r values and priorities?
Find inspiration and ideas in this recently published book:
Beginning Anew: A Woman's
Companion
to the High Holy
Edited by Gail Twersky Reimer and Judith A. Kates
In fascinating commentaries on the biblical texts for Rosh Hashanah
and Yom Kippur, contemporary women authors, scholars, theologians,
and educators bring a new perspective to their spiritual, psychological,
and emotional meaning. Gail Twersky Reimer and Judith A. Kates are
the authors of the popular anthology Reading Ruth.
Donate this book to your synagogue, Hebrew School or JCC library
in honor of the New Year! Take it with you to synagogue, read
it at home, study it with friends.
Days
COMING
UP
ON
SEPTEMBER
White butterflies, with single
black fingerpaint eyes on their wings
dart and settle, eddy and mate
over the green tangle of vines
in Labor Day morning steam.
The year grinds into ripeness
and rot, grapes darkening,
pears yellowing, the first
Virginia creeper twining crimson,
the grasses, dry straw to burn.
The New Year rises, beckoning
across the umbrellas on the sand.
I begin to reconsider my life.
What is the yield of my impatience?
What is the fruit of my resolve?
1 turn from my frantic white dance
over the jungle of productivity
and slowly a niggun slides,
cold water down my throat.
I rest on a leaf spotted red.
N o w is the time to let the mind
search backwards like the raven loosed
to see what can feed us. Now,
the time to cast the mind forward
to chart an aerial map of the months.
The New Year is a great door
that stands across the evening and Yom
Kippur is the second door. Between them
are song and silence, stone and clay pot
to be filled from within myself.
I will find here both ripeness and rot,
what I have done and undone,
What I must let go with the waning days
and what I must take in. With the last
tomatoes, we harvest the fruit of our lives.
reprinted with permission of publisher © Marge Piercy 1993
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new approaches to the liturgy of the High Holidays
T h e l i t u r g y o f the H i g h H o l i d a y s , i n t e n d e d t o f a c i l i t a t e i n d i v i d u a l c o n n e c t i o n
w i t h the D i v i n e , alienates m a n y w o m e n a n d girls. T h e m a s c u l i n e h i e r a r c h i c a l
G o d - l a n g u a g e so p r e v a l e n t i n H i g h H o l i d a y l i t u r g y c a n be p a i n f u l a n d
d i s t a n c i n g . T h e f o l l o w i n g suggestions are o f f e r e d as an a t t e m p t t o restore the
e m p o w e r i n g p o t e n t i a l o f the H i g h H o l i d a y s f o r those w h o have felt
d i m i n i s h e d , u n i n t e r e s t e d , a n d / o r angered b y t r a d i t i o n a l H i g h H o l i d a y prayer.
T h e y can be i n t e g r a t e d i n t o y o u r H i g h H o l i d a y experience regardless o f the
shape y o u r observance takes. Use t h e m i n synagogue, at h o m e , w i t h others
o r alone.
tradition
M o r e t h a n a n y o t h e r series o f h o l i d a y s , Rosh
a n d Yom Kippur
Hashanah
rely h e a v i l y o n i m a g e r y o f G o d as a K i n g a n d Ruler.
C o m p a r a t i v e l y , h u m a n beings are described as " d u s t o f the e a r t h "
a n d " c l a y i n the p o t t e r ' s h a n d s . "
suggestions
o
C o n s i d e r u s i n g a l t e r n a t i v e a n d / o r a d d i t i o n a l prayers a n d images.
I f y o u d o n ' t feel c o m f o r t a b l e w i t h n e w l i t u r g y , t a k e a l o o k at Ki
Ameicha,
machzorim
Anu
a t r a d i t i o n a l l i t u r g i c a l p o e m t h a t can be f o u n d i n m o s t
( H i g h H o l i d a y p r a y e r b o o k s ) w h i c h describes the r e l a t i o n s h i p
b e t w e e n G o d a n d people w i t h a s u r p r i s i n g range o f images. I f y o u are
l o o k i n g f o r n e w images, see M a r c i a Falk's Book
M c F a g u e ' s Models
of God,
of Blessings,
a n d J u d i t h P l a s k o w ' s Standing
Sallie
Again
at
Sinai
f o r a g o o d b e g i n n i n g . I f y o u are a synagogue m e m b e r y o u m a y w a n t t o
t h i n k a b o u t j o i n i n g the R i t u a l C o m m i t t e e .
o
Assert y o u r o w n e r s h i p o f t r a d i t i o n a n d dare t o e x p e r i m e n t w i t h n e w
f o r m s o f observance instead o f a b a n d o n i n g i t c o m p l e t e l y . D r a w o n
e x a m p l e s f r o m y o u r o w n life as a means o f c o n s i d e r i n g n e w w a y s o f
r e l a t i n g t o the D i v i n e .
o
I n a d d i t i o n t o t h i n k i n g a b o u t l i t u r g i c a l images, use the m u s i c o f the
H i g h H o l i d a y services t o t r a n s c e n d language a n d m a k e possible a
d i f f e r e n t level o f c o n n e c t i o n a n d s p i r i t u a l i t y . M u s i c plays a c e n t r a l r o l e
i n r e l i g i o u s e x p r e s s i o n a n d is as m u c h a p a r t o f the t r a d i t i o n o f the H i g h
H o l i d a y l i t u r g y as the w o r d s themselves. T r y t o experience the D i v i n e
Presence t h r o u g h m e l o d y a n d song.
o
F i n d i n s p i r a t i o n b y r e a d i n g a b o u t the B i b l i c a l character H a n n a h , the
h e r o i n e o f Rosh Hashanah's
f i r s t d a y Haftarah
(prophetic portion).
T h o u g h her w h i s p e r e d w o r d s w e r e m i s u n d e r s t o o d by m a l e a u t h o r i t y ,
H a n n a h ' s h e a r t f e l t p r a y e r was h e a r d a n d r e s p o n d e d t o b y G o d , a n d she
e v e n t u a l l y became the R a b b i n i c m o d e l f o r sincere w o r s h i p .
10111
o
Spend time thinking a b o u t the core values underlying traditional H i g h
H o l i d a y liturgy: humility; balance a m o n g all people; and p o w e r to decide
our o w n fates. Rather than focusing on specific terms and formulaic
language, concentrate on these f u n d a m e n t a l themes.
o
T h i n k a b o u t the effect on the community, and on children in particular,
of participating in a service conducted entirely or almost entirely by men.
Does y o u r community's leadership reflect the liturgy's a s s u m p t i o n that
ultimate p o w e r is male? H o w can y o u actively counter that assumption?
C o n s i d e r assuming leadership positions in y o u r c o m m u n i t y .
o
Encourage students and children to let their imaginations r o a m free
w h e n trying to c o m p r e h e n d the Divine. Talk w i t h them a b o u t the
meaning of metaphor; explore the images they like most.
o
Let y o u r rabbi(s) k n o w if y o u w a n t issues of G o d l a n g u a g e to be
addressed f r o m the bima (pulpit).
tradition W h i l e reciting a litany of w r o n g doings, m a n y beat the chest area
with their fists.
suggestion Either as an alternative or as an addition, use a c o m f o r t i n g
motion like patting y o u r heart or c o m e up w i t h y o u r o w n ritual w a y of
physicalizing y o u r recognition of imperfections. If y o u spend most of the year
beating up on yourself, use Yom Kippur to d o the opposite. Y o u can b e c o m e
a w a r e of w a y s y o u ' v e missed the m a r k w i t h o u t punishing yourself.
t r a d i t i o n W o m e n f r o m Jewish Sephardic and M i d d l e Eastern communities
have long contributed to the celebration of Rosh Hashanah by preparing
special foods. C h o s e n for their symbolism, these f o o d s are eaten as part of a
mm\-Rosh Hashanah seder preceding the night meal. For e x a m p l e , the
c o o k e d head of a fish or l a m b ensures that w e will " h e a d " into the year
successfully; beet root keeps enemies at bay.
suggestion Creatively re-appropriate this custom and involve children of
all ages at y o u r table. C h o o s e f o o d s that symbolize w h a t y o u are l o o k i n g to
introduce into your life and community.
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giving as justice: heeding the calls of the shofar
Ma'yan recognizes that many women have a complex and difficult
relationship with money. We are committed to providing you with the skills
and information you need to make informed decisions about your tzedaka.
Through the pages of this journal we hope to offer you personal voices,
expert advice and useful data to guide you on your journey to becoming
informed givers of tzedaka and seekers of justice.
The piercing sound of the shofar, a Jewish symbol of justice, serves as
an important reminder to listen and to reflect. Each note urges us to be wary
of remaining too comfortable. A key part of the t'shuva process involves
thinking about what we have and have not done to further justice in our
communities and in the world. While there are many avenues for justice
work, Judaism clearly identifies tzedaka, the Jewish approach to giving, as
central to tikkun olam, bringing justice and healing to the world. The word
tzedaka itself comes from the Hebrew root for justice.
The connection between tzedaka and the shofar has special significance
for women. The Midrash (rabbinic commentary) teaches that after the near
sacrifice of her son, Sarah called out, in a voice like the cry of the shofar,
for a more just religious system.1 This year as you listen to the call of the
shofar, hear not only the voice of Sarah, but also the voices of our mothers,
grandmothers and great-grandmothers shouting on picket lines and
whispering in prayer, speaking from podiums and discussing around kitchen
tables-forging a path for a more just future. Then listen for your own raised
voice joining in a commitment to make all women's voices heard throughout
our community in the coming year.
Future issues of this journal will feature change-makers w h o translate
their support of Jewish women and girls into a variety of practices. The first
voice is of Ma'yan's founder and chair, Barbara Dobkin, w h o contributes
greatly to the future of Jewish women and girls through her tzedaka.
Among my scant childhood memories is the vivid recollection of
accompanying my bubbe, the neighborhood "key-holder," from bouse to
house to empty blue Jewish National Fund pushkes (boxes). Her wisdom
about tzedaka, often imparted through stories which I then believed as
gospel and only in my adult years discovered were of her own invention, was
expansive. She told me: riches must be shared with the poor-no matter how
little you have; there is always someone more needy for whom you must
provide; be humble and give with humility; volunteer your time to make the
world better, but never in lieu of giving money; assume leadership even if you
feel inadequate to the task. Bubbe taught me that women have a special
obligation to give since they are smarter than men and more sensitive and
compassionate to those in need. She admonished me to keep this last
teaching a secret between us.
141 15
Since those days with my bubbe, I have traveled a long road, slowly
developing my own way of thinking about and giving tzedaka. I am still
learning how to be strategic in my giving. I am still trying to get more
comfortable negotiating with my husband, saying no to the projects I am not
going to fund, and asking the right questions about those I am interested in.
I support projects that effect the status of Jewish women and build selfesteem. I fund social change rather than the status quo or crisis management.
For me, that's what Ma'yan is about. I also believe that the arts, including
music, film, and theater, provide creative vehicles for education and change,
so I support these projects. I believe that Jewish women must be written
back into history, that the accomplishments
of 20th century women must be
documented before their lives are forgotten, and that girls and boys have to
be taught about women's contributions to the Jewish and secular worlds. I
believe in empowering young Jewish women who create innovative
programs
that make a difference. I believe that the issues of Jewish lesbians need to be
addressed by our community so their talents are not lost to us. I believe that
the voices of Jewish women scholars and writers add a critical dimension to
our community.
Last year I gave more money to Jewish women's issues through my
family foundation than did New York UJA-Federation in all of its domestic
and Israel targeted grantmaking.2 To me this fact clearly says that the issues
that are important, at least to me-and I consider myself a mainstream
Jewish woman-and the issues that I believe will help make our community
a more inviting place for Jewish women like me, are for the most part
being neglected.
Women can't remain afraid and ignorant of issues around money. We
can't acquiesce philanthropic priority setting and decision making to men.
We can't remain silent about the exclusion, the abuse and the marginalization
of Jewish women, here and in Israel. And if we are going to raise these
issues, we have to be willing to back up our words with our money.
I try very hard to integrate my two passions: feminism and Judaism. I,
too, worry about the future of our community. But the compelling issue to
me is not intermarriage. It is building a community that is inclusive and a
Judaism that is so incredibly meaningful, integral and celebratory in our lives
that there's no other way to be.
I believe the time is ripe for Jewish women, collectively with our voices,
our activism and our money, to transform our community. Money talks and
collaboration works. We must trust each other-work,
take risks and give
together. 1 use my voice, my influence and my money to benefit Jewish
women and girls. To me this is a sacred mission.
1. See "Vayera" in Aviva Zorenber^'s Genesis (JPS, 1995)
2. According t o 1996/97 Grants Report
T Z E D A K A
Putting Our Money W h e r e Our Hearts Are: Some Facts to Consider
fact
Growing evidence in every field, from education and healthcare to
anti-poverty initiatives, indicates that non-gender-specific programs do
not reach and serve w o m e n as well as they serve men. W o m e n and girls
benefit most from programs that target them specifically; but they slip
through the cracks when programs do not take their particular issues
into account.
fact
According to W o m e n and Foundations/Corporate Philanthropy, an
organization that tracks national funding of w o m e n and girls, less than
5 % of all foundation funding in the United States goes to programs
specifically targeted to women and girls.
fact
Although the majority of UJA-Federation of N e w York's grant recepients
are women, its 1996/97 Grants Report indicates that Jewish giving in the
N e w York area specifically targeted to w o m e n and girls is even less than
the national average.
fact
Nearly every woman w h o attended Mayan's third annual Jewish W o m e n
Ensuring the Future conference in May 1997 identified " w o m e n and girls"
as a primary area of interest. In table conversations, however, it was clear
that very few attendees actually gave money to programs specifically
targeting w o m e n and girls.
questions to think about
As the High Holy Days approach, w e might benefit from thinking about some of
the questions raised by Marie Wilson, President of the Ms. Foundation at Mayan's
conference: In what ways are w e putting our money where our hearts live? Are w e
writing checks? A r e they significant? A r e w e translating our values and priorities into
action? If w e aren't, what holds us back?
U.S. foundation dollars allocated
specifically t o w o m e n and girls
Total Foundation
dollars in U. S. per year
n
0 5%
1996-97 U J A Federation grant
dollars allocated specifically t o
w o m e n and girls
0 2%
16 17
1
100%
Total U J A Federation
of N Y non-capital
grant dollars
100%
M A ' Y A N
S O U R C E S
P R E - H I G H
H O L I D A Y
F E M I N I S T
C E L E B R A T I O N
Sunday S e p t e m b e r 2 1 / 7 pm
Discussion and Study with Dr. Lori Lefkovitz
W e d n e s d a y S e p t e m b e r 24 / 5:30 p m
Ritual and Song with Susie Kessler, Janice Rous and Judy Ribnick
Call for locations. W a t c h for details, $ 18 both sessions, $ 10 ritual only
Beginning the N e w Year wouldn't be complete without Mayan's tashlich, a waterside ritual of spiritual
cleansing and renewal. This year we've added a session for study and personal reflection on the theme
of women, t'shuva and making change. Join us for music, sharing, learning and community.
Susie Kessler is the co-director of education and training at the National C e n t e r for Jewish Healing; Dr. Lori Lefkovitz is
director of Knlot:The
C e n t e r for Jewish W o m e n ' s and G e n d e r Studies; Judy Ribnick, M.S.W., has served as C a n t o r for the
Park Slope Jewish C e n t e r for eleven years; Janice Rous is a certified teacher of the Alexander Technique and creator of
Body Dialogue.
October
16-22
Sukkot Programming: Welcoming the Ushpizot
Based on the Kabbalistic custom of inviting seven ushpizin (Aramaic for guests) into the sukkah (booth),
this exciting new program centers around the seven Biblical women designated as prophets. By inviting
these seven women or ushpizot, into the sukkah through communal study, song and ritual, the program
explores what it means to fully welcome and integrate women into our communities. Fun, educational
and compelling, this program will be piloted in various locations around N e w York. For locations, times
and more information call Ma'yan.
O N G O I N G
G R O U P S
E a r l y M o r n i n g Rosh Chodesh
Group
T h u r s d a y s 7:30 - 8:45 a m
S e p t e m b e r 18 / O c t o b e r 9 / N o v e m b e r I I / D e c e m b e r 12
Call for locations. Facilitated by Susie Kessler and Janice Rous. $18
If you are interested in setting up your own Rosh Chodesh (new month) group and you need help with
resources and coordination, call us at 212. 580. 0099
Pre-Shabbat Study
F r i d a y s 8:30 - 9:30 a m (free)
Tamara Cohen
Join this informal spiritually enriching study group as w e continue to examine Marcia Falk's Book of Blessings
in the context of traditional liturgy. All are welcome; no background necessary. Both Hebrew and English
texts used. A new musical component will be added to our sessions with the help of Blessings in Song, recently
released by Fran Avni and Linda Hirschhorn. Bring your breakfast; get to work a little late; its worth it.
Jewish Feminist Research G r o u p
Rabbi Sara Paasche-Orlow, coordinator
Co-sponsored by Jewish Women's Studies at the Jewish Theological Seminary and the Center for the Study
of W o m e n and Society at the City University of N e w York. Inter-disciplinary forum for scholars, practitioners
and students interested in the intersections of gender studies, Jewish studies and feminism. N e w research
and works in progress from North America and Israel will be shared and critiqued in the eight sessions planned
for 1997-98.
Individual papers: $5. Subscription: $25 (8 sessions), entitles you to receive copies of all papers prior to their
presentation. Tapes from the sessions will be available at a nominal cost. W e are also planning an on-line
chat for one session. If you are interested in presenting a paper or being a respondent, or want more
information, call Ma'yan.
Rabbi Sara Paasche-Orlow is the co-coordinator of Kolot Bavii-Yerushalmi
8 19
Project.
M A ' Y A N
R E S O U R C E S
Ma'yan invites you to use our library, our files and our minds as resources to help you design and
initiate programs that will promote a more inclusive environment in your community. Minimal
copying and postal charges may apply.
T h e R e s o u r c e L i b r a r y Ma'yan houses an extensive collection of Jewish feminist sources; a broad
range of general feminist work; specific information on women, money and philanthropy; periodicals;
and audio visual materials,
U p d a t e d Bibliography A close to comprehensive list of recently published books by and/or of
interest to Jewish women is available by mail or e-mail.
Ritual files Ma'yan recognizes that new ritual is a powerful means of transformation. W e intend
to continue to inspire, create and disseminate materials that enhance Jewish holidays and life cycle
events to make them more meaningful for women. Life-cycle ceremonies, Rosh Chodesh and other
holiday programs can be mailed to you with ample advanced notice. W e also welcome copies of any
new rituals you put together
I n f o r m a l F e m i n i s t S c h o l a r N e t w o r k Ma'yan staff can help connect you with speakers and
other experts in your area of interest. If you are planning a conference or women's program, w e
can help.
D o c k e t of J e w i s h W o m e n ' s P r o j e c t s W e maintain extensive files on opportunities for funding
Jewish women and girls in North America and Israel. Personal consultations for potential funders
are available by appointment.
G u i d a n c e for W o m e n ' s P r o g r a m m i n g Ma'yan sees its programs as part of a research and
development process which creates new models that can be used within the family, by organizations
and the community at large. All Hillels, women's groups, synagogues, JCCs and individuals are
welcome to consult with Ma'yan about women's programming. Call us for guidance on putting
together feminist seders, ritual art exhibits, bat mitzvah workshops for mothers and daughters,
and other programs.
M a k i n g W a v e s " W a t c h d o g " G r o u p Are you a board member; volunteer or professional in a
Jewish organization you care about and believe is in need of change? W e can help. Are you looking
for a more active way of supporting women in your Jewish community? Join us in monitoring Jewish
media on women and women's issues. Call for details.
A L S O
A V A I L A B L E
FROM
M A ' Y A N
The Journey Continues: Ma'yan Passover Haggadah
Last year's fabulous haggadah is still for
sale! Welcome the voices of Jewish women at your own seder using this powerful compilation of
music, poetry and new ritual. In addition, we still have copies of Debbie Friedman's The Journey
Continues: Ma'yan Passover Haggadah in Song. Haggadot $ 10 each, C D $ 18, Cassette $ 14
(plus shipping and handling).
W o m e n of V a l o r P o s t e r s If you haven't seen these visually spectacular profiles of Rose
Schneiderman, Glikl of Hameln and Henrietta Szold distributed during Jewish Women's History
W e e k 1997 by Ma'yan and the Jewish Women's Archive to over 6500 schools, federations,
universities, synagogues and JCCs through out North America, you can still order a set. O u r 1998
posters, introducing Rebecca Gratz, Molly Picon and Lillian Wald, are currently in production.The
posters are great classroom, home and sukkah decorations. Set of three: $25, $ 10 each.
Drawing F r o m the Source: Miriam, W o m e n ' s Creativity and N e w Ritual
Exhibition catalogue from Mayan's Miriam's Cup exhibition this past spring at Hebrew Union
College-Jewish Institute of Religion.This 75 page display book includes photographs of each of the
cups with comments by the artists; essays byTamara Cohen and Jean Bloch Rosensaft; and a
foreword by Marcia Falk. $ 15 each.
B i b l e W o m e n by Liz Swados — Commissioned by Ma'yan in 1994, this highly acclaimed "folk
opera" illuminates the battles, sorrows, victories and musings of some extraordinary, biblical women.
Available through Ma'yan on C D only, $ 16.
C O - S P O N S O R E D
EVENTS
Rage/Resolution: F r o m F a m i l y V i o l e n c e t o H e a l i n g Art by American and Israeli women,
Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, I W e s t 4th Street, N Y C , from September
17 - January 30, 1998. The exhibition's goals are "to promote opportunities for meaningful
community education, advocacy, and healing." The show is co-sponsored by HUC-JIR and U.S./lsrael
W o m e n to W o m e n in cooperation with UJA-Federation of N e w York's Task Force on Family
Violence and Task Force on the Jewish Woman; the Leadership Conference of Jewish Women's
Organizations; W o m e n of Reform Judaism; Jewish W o m e n International; Ma'yan:The Jewish Women's
Project and other local organizations.
R e n e w a l of S p i r i t : D e b b i e F r i e d m a n in C o n c e r t C e l e b r a t i n g t h e N e w Y e a r
Carnegie Hall. Sunday, September 28 at 2:30 pm. $50, $36, $25. For tickets and information
call Ma'yan at 580-0099.
Congratulations to Rabbi Sue Levi Elwell on her appointment as the Assistant Director of the
Pennsylvania Region of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations. Serving as Mayan's Rabbinic
Director for the past three years, Sue added a very special dimension to Ma'yan staff and programs.
Although we miss her already, we look forward to a continued connection with her and know that she
will enrich Jewish women's lives wherever she goes!
20 21
R O S H
H A S H A N A H
IS
C O M I N G
Only 177 days left until the Ma'yan seders.
As 5758 begins, we at Ma'yan are already preparing for Passover Mayan's annual feminist
seders will be held on Sunday March 29, Monday March 30 and Tuesday March 31 at
Bridgewater's at the South Street Seaport. As always, the seders will be full of singing, dancing,
insight and inspiration and feature our original haggadah with Debbie Friedman's incredible
music. While the cost of holding the seders continues to escalate, we have kept the ticket price
at $55 which does not fully cover the actual cost of each place.
Ma'yan remains committed to offering scholarships to students and others unable to pay the
full ticket price. Scholarship tickets are $25; if you need further financial assistance please don't
hesitate to call.
W e encourage all who are able to support our Seder Sister Fund to ensure the broadest
participation by as diverse a community as possible. Any contribution will help us continue to
expand the community of women reinvigorating Jewish life in the tradition of our foremothers
about whom the sages said,"... for the sake of the righteous women of that generation Israel
was redeemed from Egypt." (Sotah! 11 b)
Registration/send a sister to the seder
As you make your reservations, please consider helping others attend.
Dates: Sunday, March 29 / Monday, March 30 / Tuesday, March 3 I
Please reserve
I
Please reserve
I
Please reserve
I
Name:
'
Address:
I
place(s) at $55 for the Ma'yan Seder on:
__ place(s) at the scholarship price of $25 on:
tables (10 seats) at $550 for the Ma'yan Seder on: L
Phone:
Please print the names and addresses of people for whom you are reserving below:
Enclosed is a check for I
for I
Reservations
I
Seder Sister Fund*
* ( E v e r y $55 gift enables another w o m a n t o attend. Y o u r contribution is tax-deductible t o the full extent allowed by law.)
Total enclosed
I
Please charge my credit card:
I
Visa
L
Mastercard
Card no. I
Name as it appears on your card I
American Express
Exp. Date I
_
A check or credit card information must accompany your reservation which will only be accepted
by mail. Only groups of ten will have a reserved table. All other seating will be on a first come first
served basis. Reservations will be confirmed by postcard. If you have other questions, please call
Ma'yan at 212. 580. 0099.
Checks should be made payable to JCC/Ma'yan and mailed to us at:
15 West 65th Street 8th Floor New York NY 10023
photos
cover: Joan Roth
inside cover: Judy Sirota Rosenthal
ma'yan journey: Joan Roth
t'shuva: Beth Shepard Peters
t'fila: Beth Shepard Peters
design / parlour
t'zedaka: Beth Shepard Peters
sources: Joan Roth
seder: Beth Shepard Peters
inside back cover: Joan Roth
T h e Jewish W o m e n ' s Project
a program of the J C C
on the U p p e r W e s t Side
15 W e s t 65th Street
N e w York, N Y 10023-6694
Non-Profit
Organization
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PAID
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