Following a community conversation on Jewish identity and antisemitism at the Merrick Jewish Centre earlier this month, organizers and religious leaders said the discussion left attendees reflecting on the importance of Jewish pride, education and community connection during a time of rising antisemitism.
Author and former White House speechwriter Sarah Hurwitz visited the Merrick synagogue on May 19 to discuss her New York Times bestselling book, As a Jew: Reclaiming Our Story from Those Who Blame, Shame, and Try to Erase Us, which explores Jewish history, identity and modern antisemitism.
The event, presented by the Rabbi Charles and Betty Klein Legacy Committee, drew community members for a discussion that synagogue leaders said was especially meaningful in the aftermath of the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks and the rise in antisemitic incidents across the country.
“There were so many important takeaways from Sarah Hurwitz’s presentation at the Merrick Jewish Centre,” said Rabbi Emeritus Charles A. Klein. “I hope that those who attended will take to heart her call for us to live proudly Jewish without apology in a time of rising antisemitism. Her talk opened the door to an urgently needed conversation for our community.”
Steve Greenfield, co-chair of the Lifelong Learning Committee and one of the event organizers, said Hurwitz’s personal journey resonated strongly with attendees.
“What impressed me about Sarah Hurwitz was that at the height of a career — working in the White House — she realized that something was missing in her life,” Greenfield said. “She then undertook an exploration of Judaism that added meaning and purpose for her future. That is a great model for all of us, no matter your faith.”
Rabbi Joshua Dorsch said Hurwitz’s presentation connected with many in attendance because it addressed both the challenges Jewish communities are facing and the importance of strengthening Jewish identity through education and engagement.
“Sarah Hurwitz gave voice to something many American Jews have been feeling, especially since October 7 — that being Jewish today requires not only resilience, but a deeper understanding of who we are and why our tradition matters,” Dorsch said. “What resonated so strongly with our community was her message that Jewish identity cannot be sustained only through responding to antisemitism; it has to be rooted in learning, connection, and pride in Jewish life itself.”
Dorsch added that the Merrick Jewish Centre aims to create opportunities for thoughtful dialogue and meaningful Jewish experiences for members of the community.
“At Merrick Jewish Centre, we strive to create meaningful Jewish experiences where people can ask difficult questions, engage seriously with Jewish ideas, and feel connected to a community and a tradition larger than themselves,” he said. “The conversation Sarah led was honest, thoughtful, and deeply needed.”
Organizers said the discussion encouraged attendees to continue conversations about Jewish identity, history and community engagement beyond the event itself.
