As paper calendars turn and digital devices switch to the month of February, the change also signifies another important time — national Jewish Disability Awareness & Inclusion Month, better known as JDAIM. While disability rights and inclusion is a year-round issue, this month is a concerted effort that provides a platform for disability advocates to bring additional exposure.
In its fourteenth year, Jewish Learning Venture’s Whole Community Inclusion and the Jewish Special Needs/Disability Awareness Consortium of Greater Philadelphia, which includes the Jewish Federation, have channeled this national commemoration into a local movement with a strong array of programming, educational resources and advocacy.
This year will be no exception with nearly 30 programs of learning and empowerment. Over 20 synagogues will participate in JDAIM Shabbat Across Philadelphia, where they will dedicate a Shabbat service to disability awareness themes.
Outside of local programming, people from around the globe can virtually join the Jewish Federations of North America for Jewish Disability Awareness Day, or JDAD, on February 23 and 24. Over two days, participants will have the opportunity to learn from disability rights champions, experts and legislators about the current state of disability rights and what can be done to promote inclusion. Find out more and register by clicking here.
Discover some of the local JDAIM programs by checking out the highlights below:
‘In My Kehillah’ Book Party!
Sunday, February 6 | 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
One year ago, Jewish Learning Venture released its first book In My Kehillah, encouraging young learners (4 to 8 years old) to be inclusive of their peers with physical, cognitive, and learning disabilities. Join jkidacess, a program of Jewish Learning Venture, for an online book celebration for a reading, a lesson in illustrating with Robin Matthews, the book’s illustrator, and to share fun, creative ideas for building inclusive communities. To purchase a copy, click here. To register, click here.
Clergy Lunch and Learn: Kavod Habriot with Rabbi Lauren Tuchman
Thursday, February 17 | 12:00 p.m.
In recognition of Jewish Disability Awareness, Acceptance & Inclusion, Jewish Learning Venture invites Philadelphia area rabbis and cantors to join Rabbi Lauren Tuchman for an hour of study focused on Kavod Habriot, which is honoring God’s creations, a central value in Judaism. Explore two stories found in the Babylonian Talmud in which individuals we might identify today as having disabilities exercise personal agency and demand dignity in deeply undignifying situations. To register, click here.
Let’s Talk About Mental Health: A Jewish Community Forum
Wednesday, February 16 | 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
The Jewish Disability Inclusion Consortium of Greater Philadelphia is excited to invite the community to an important evening focusing on eradicating the stigma of mental health challenges. The program will begin with Sharon Rosenblatt, keynote speaker and accessibility professional, a panel of people with lived experience with mental illness and experts in the mental health field and breakout groups for reflection. To register, click here.
Inclusive Grandparenting: How We Fully Celebrate ALL Our Grandchildren
Tuesday, February 22 | 7:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Disability inclusion specialist Lisa Friedman will lead us in a conversation exploring how we can enrich our relationships with our grandchildren through the use of inclusive language, ongoing learning and active listening. Discussion, framed in Jewish text and values, will include practical tips for inclusive grandparenting such as celebrating differences and recognizing the potential of every child. This event is co-sponsored by Jewish Learning Venture and the Philly Friendship Circle. To register, click here.
Inclusive Classrooms and Universal Design
Monday, February 28 | 7:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
An evening of learning for educators. Join Whole Community Inclusion Specialist and occupational Alanna Raffel as she shares the approach of universal design for creating inclusive classrooms. Alanna will share ways that you can support students with learning and behavioral challenges by creating classrooms that support all students. Bring your questions — leave with practical resources! To register, click here.
Changing Landscape: Work and Inclusion for Persons with Disabilities
Monday, February 28 | 12:00 p.m.
Join the Jewish Federation’s Jewish Community Relations Council and JEVS Human Services to learn more about the important work JEVS does locally to train adults with disabilities for jobs. A panel of experts will explore how the pandemic impacted employment for people with disabilities and what new opportunities have emerged for those seeking employment. Hear from employers, advocates, service providers and clients with first-hand experience navigating the labor market during COVID. To register, click here.
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To see the full roundup of JDAIM events, click here.
The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia provides support and resources for disability communities in Greater Philadelphia and around the world. You can help this mission by making a gift at jewishphilly.org/donate