Embracing Racial Diversity in Our Synagogues: Who Are Jews of Color (JOC)

Who are Jews of Color (JOC)?

Jews of Color is a pan-ethnic term that is used to identify Jews whose family origins are originally in African, Asian or Latin-American countries. Jews of Color may identify as Black, Latino/a, Asian-American or of mixed heritage such as biracial or multi-racial.

Due to several factors, Mizrachi and Sephardi Jews from North African and Arab lands vary in whether or not they self-identify as “Jews of Color.”   
 

How do Jews of Color Join the Jewish Community?

Jews of Color join the Jewish community in a variety of ways, including: birth, transracial/transnational adoption, and conversion. In addition, the Jewish community includes many People of Color (POC) who join the Jewish community through family ties, i.e. through interfaith marriage, but who retain their own faith-identity.     


How Many Jews are Jews of Color?

The Steinhardt Social Research Institute’s American Jewish Population Project reports that 11% of Jews in the United States are Jews of Color. 

What's New

Appreciating Our Roots: Reflections on Hispanic Heritage Month

October 16, 2023
This Hispanic Heritage Month, I am reflecting on these ways in which the intersectionality of my identity have pushed me forward, a microcosm of the purpose of this month's designation. Also known as Latino Heritage Month, this annual celebration recognizes and honors the contributions, culture, and history of Hispanic and Latine Americans.

What Does MLK Shabbat Mean in 2023?

January 12, 2023
On January 13-14, 2023 (the Shabbat before MLK Day), synagogues across the United States will celebrate MLK Shabbat. This year, let MLK Shabbat symbolize our commitment to expanding voting rights and advancing racial justice in 2023 and beyond.

Hate Crimes in 2021: An Incomplete Picture

December 22, 2022
Last week, the FBI released its annual compilation of hate crimes statistics, summarizing all hate crimes reported to the FBI in 2021. While the statistics themselves are grim and disturbing, the most alarming statistic in this year’s announcement is what was not reported. While underreporting of hate crimes has been an ongoing issue, this report is more inaccurate than usual.