My Thoughts After Visiting Cuba with JDC Ambassadors

I have known about and spoken about the amazing work JDC does on behalf of the Jews all over the world, but not until a recent trip with JDC Ambassadors to visit the Jewish Community in Cuba was I able to witness the rebirth of a Jewish community first hand. The infrastructure and long term work and commitment of JDC on the ground in Cuba for the last 20 years has resulted in a vibrant, spirited and connected community that has been an oasis of joy amidst a backdrop of hunger and daily struggle to get by. The Jewish community has become a resource to the entire Cuban community and made me proud.

Seeing is believing and after sharing Kabbalat Shabbat and havdalah with the multi generational Cuban Jewish community,  I am reminded that the words of Hebrew prayer unite us all across political and geographic boundaries.  Kol Israel arevim ze L’ze has never been more important then in this current political climate.  May we continue to sustain this and other brethren in need through the strategic and dedicated work of JDC.