Jewish American Heritage Month

Posted By admin on December 23, 2020

Harvey Keitel (left) and Lior Ashkenazi in Esau | Courtesy of Archstone Entertainment

Everybody calls me a writer. But writers write about people, and all I can write about is bread, muses the eponymous protagonist of Esau, director Pavel Lungins new film offering a modern spin on the famous biblical brothers.

The movie, based on a novel of the same name by Israeli author Meir Shalev, is narrated by Lior Ashkenazis Esau, a food writer. He returns home to his familys Israeli village from his residence abroad when he hears that his elderly father Abraham, played by Harvey Keitel, is deteriorating. He has not been back for decades, and his brother Jacob, played by Mark Ivanir, has taken over the family bakery.

He also married the woman they both love, Leah, played in her younger years by Shira Haas. Jacob, bitter at his brothers abandonment, tells Esau to stay away, but a call he believes to be from Leah lures him back to the village.

Its a family legacy that treats linear time as a suggestion rather than a rule. The camera hops from the brothers Russian grandfather arriving in Israel to their birth, to the boys youth, to the present day, to another moment in the past about their parents courtship at the very end of the film. The ancient facades and dirt roads of the village appear untouched by time, and the muted colors of the clothing and costumes never look quite modern, even in the present day.

The films main success is its portrayal of the relationship between art and life. The fact that all screenplays are created by writers means there are too many films about writers starry-eyed new hires at fashion magazines, grizzled crime reporters, troubled novelists but Esau actually wields its characters occupation to great purpose in building a story.

The bulk of the narration consists of Esau finally pivoting from bread and attempting to write about people by reflecting on why he left home. When his brother discovers the typewritten pages, he is furious, both at the information he finds and his assumption that his brother is trying to make money off his experiences.

Jacob is also enraged that his daughter, a photographer, is taking candid photos of him for her photography exhibition. He loses patience when she sneaks up on him in the bathroom (his reaction is portrayed as harsh, but its pretty reasonable not to want someone let alone your own daughter barging in while youre showering to take naked photos of you).

He accosts both of them for trying to profit off his pain.Youll take it, and youll use it, and youll sell it, he spits. Couple of rats, both of you.

The exchange raises valid questions about the ethics of creating art based on your own life, especially family strife.

The great weakness of the story is its poorly developed female characters. Anyone familiar with the brothers original story can recognize how Leah is objectified. In the Torah, Esau trades Jacob his birthright in exchange for a bowl of stew. In this film, he trades it for a glance of Leahs retreating form through the eyeglasses he is forced to share with his brother due to Abrahams stinginess.

As an adult, Leah withers away to a shadow in the wake of her sons death, refusing to eat, speak or bathe. She is a specter hanging over Esaus visit and a catalyst for a major fight, but she does basically nothing.

Leah is a symbol of the brothers rivalry, an obstacle in their relationship, rather than her own person. Haas, whose star performance in Netflixs Unorthodox established her as one of the most talented Jewish actors of her generation, clearly did her best to portray Leahs childhood vibrancy, but even she could not overcome such a badly conceived role.

The twins mother, Yulia Peresilds Sara, is more interesting, but she also finds herself shrunken before a man taking up too much space. Abraham regularly berates her and calls her a goy, a reference to the conversion of her Russian father and her fondness for Russian folk music. There is a scene of reconciliation that is meant to be sweet, but her husband does little to atone for his emotional abuse.

In the end, Esau will remain with audiences for the questions it poses rather than the answers it provides.

Is there a morally correct way to write about people who have hurt you, and who you have hurt in turn? Can you write, or photograph, or paint your own experiences if they are shaped by people who want to be left out of your story? And if you cant, are you simply left writing about bread?[emailprotected]; 215-832-0729

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'Esau' Puts New Twist on Biblical Brotherhood - Jewish Exponent

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Posted By admin on December 22, 2020

MARYLAND A new study of childhood obesity shows Maryland ranks low among the states, according to the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. In Maryland, 17.6 percent of youth ages 10 to 17 have obesity, giving Maryland a ranking of 10 among the 50 states and D.C.

According to this year's State of Childhood Obesity report, about 1 in 7 children nationwide are considered obese or about 15.5 percent.

"Childhood obesity remains an epidemic in this country," Jamie Bussel, senior program officer at the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, said in a release. "We must confront these current crises in ways that also support long-term health and equity for all children and families in the United States."

School closures have left millions of children without a regular source of healthy meals or physical activity. In addition, millions of caregivers have lost income or jobs, making it more difficult for families to access or afford healthy foods.

The report also highlights the obesity rates in younger children, high school students and adults.

Here's a look at how Maryland rates:

Here are a couple findings of note from this year's report:

The five states with the highest obesity rates in children ages 10 to 17 were:

The five states with lowest rates included:

See the full State of Childhood Obesity report online.

The focus of this year's report, according to a release by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, is prioritizing childhood health amid the coronavirus pandemic.

In the study, researchers say the pandemic and ongoing economic recession have worsened many of the broader factors that contribute to obesity, including poverty and health disparities.

Emerging research links obesity with increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19, including among children. Evidence from other vaccines also has led some experts to predict that a COVID-19 vaccine may be less effective in those with underlying medical conditions such as obesity.

To determine the most recent childhood obesity rates, the foundation used data from the 2018-19 National Survey of Children's Health, along with information collected through a separate analysis conducted by the Health Resources and Services Administration's Maternal and Child Health Bureau.

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Where Maryland Childhood Obesity Ranks Among The States - Patch.com

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Posted By admin on December 22, 2020

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the Museum of Jewish Heritage - A Living Memorial to the Holocaust has pivoted to create engaging virtual programs for its audiences, and the Museum invites other organizations to do the same in 2021 at its state-of-the-art theatre.

Edmond J. Safra Hall at the Museum is available to theater companies, nonprofits, and artists who wish to perform and present live - or to prerecord events - on its stage for low, affordable rat.es. The theatre can host performances, lectures, readings, concerts, and other events.

Equipped with a six-figure grant from the Edmond J. Safra Foundation, the Museum upgraded the technology in Edmond J. Safra Hall, installing multiple video cameras, new lighting, an upgraded sound system and a TriCaster for polished audio and video recording and live streamed presentations.

"Virtual events have entertained and educated us throughout the pandemic and offered a lifeline to arts and culture organizations," said Jack Kliger, President & CEO of the Museum of Jewish Heritage - A Living Memorial to the Holocaust. "Thanks to the Edmond J. Safra Foundation, we have upgraded our theater to better connect with our audiences in their homes. As we plan programs for the new year, we invite production companies, theatre companies and anyone seeking a place to showcase their work to our theater."

This fall, the Museum presented two live streamed concerts from the theatre featuring Frank London's Klezmer Brass Allstars and klezmer-rock band Golem. Algemeiner hosted a virtual gala from the space in early December, and later this month, the nation's largest Yiddish culture festival will stream live from Edmond J. Safra Hall.

The Museum charges very affordable rates for use of the space and has instituted health and safety measures at the Museum and Edmond J. Safra Hall amid COVID-19.

For specifics about the theater's technology, requirements on attendance and other safety measures, and rental rates, visit https://mjhnyc.org/space-rental/edmond-j-safra-hall-production-rentals/.

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Museum Of Jewish Heritage " A Living Memorial To The Holocaust Pivoting To Provide Production Space In 2021 - Broadway World

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Posted By admin on December 22, 2020

Louisville is a compassionate city with many faiths and diverse cultures. Although the holiday celebrations might look different, there is one uniting principle: goodwill toward all. Here is just a sampling and glimpse from our community partners of what this festive season means to them. We would love to hear from you on our social media channels about how you celebrate the holidays.

Spirit of the season touches the heart of everyone

The holiday season is definitely the best time of the year with all of its festivities and bright lights. Whether one is Christian or not, spirit of days surrounding the Christmas season touches the heart of everyone. Both Jesus and Mary are the revered figures in Islam as in Holy Quran, Jesus is mentioned 49 times and a whole chapter is dedicated to Mary.

Therefore on Christmas Day, I make prayers for my family, friends and humanity in general while enjoying the cultural aspect of this sacred day.

Muhammad Babar, MD MBA MSc, University of Louisville Physicians

Kwanzaas values are a universal way of life

In 1966, Kwanzaa was first celebrated by Dr. Maulana Karenga, professor, philosopher and political activist. Since then, Kwanzaa has been an annual observance for seven days from December 26 to January 1. It is an African-American and Pan-African holiday celebrated by millions throughout the African diaspora. Dr. Karenga established Kwanzaa to help African Americans reconnect with their cultural and historical heritage by uniting in the seven core principles honoring African heritage. These principles are called the Nguzo Saba, in the African language of Swahili. The core principles are:

Kwanzaa was not created as an alternative to religious beliefs or the observance of religious holidays.

During my visits to Africa, I learned about the multiplicity of ethical and moral concepts that evolved from the cradle of civilization and now has spread around the world. For example, among the traditional Igbo people in West Africa, the word Nma, conveys the idea of goodness. The Od If, the sacred text of the Yorb people of Southwestern Nigeria, gave birth to the concept of Iwa Pele, which means gentle and balanced character, essential to development as human beings.

In Kenya, East Africa, you will find the concept of Harambee, Swahili for lets pull together! Terranga is a concept of hospitality among Wolof people in Senegal, West Africa. Then there is Ubuntu (uu-buun-too), an ancient ethical and moral concept practiced by the Zulu and Xhosa people of South Africa. Ubuntu means, "I am what I am because of who we all are." Ubuntu is a worldview in which people can only obtain fulfillment through interacting with other people. Ubuntu represents a spirit of brotherhood and sisterhood across both race and religious beliefs that unites mankind to a common purpose.

Just as the concepts of Nma, Iwa Pele, Harambee, Terranga, and Ubuntu have roots in Africa, Kwanzaa is part of this ancient continuum, communicating a cultural message that speaks to the best of what it means to be African and human, no matter what your religious beliefs. The central belief is that these values are universal truths and a universal way of life.

Aukram Burton, Executive Director, Kentucky Center for African American Heritage

Winter solstice: A day of great spiritual importance

Alongside many indigenous, earth-bound religions, which emphasize relationships with both place and circular time as opposed to doctrine or linear time, the Lakota traditions have historically recognized the winter solstice as a day of great spiritual importance. For many, this is in preparation for both the demands and blessings of the upcoming year.

Canunpa ("sacred pipe") and Inipi ("sweat lodge") ceremonies are common in acknowledging the Wan-W-Ip ("Crest of the Winter Sun"). Mythic stories, songs, and narratives are shared in order to maintain ties with the ancestors to whom we give reverence. These stories also serve to reinvigorate our own sacred paths tied to the seven generations that have proceeded us as well as the seven generations that will come after we are gone.

As the world around us pauses and rests during the winter months, preparing for its own rejuvenation, we also take the time to both reflect and prepare for our own. We do this so the people will continue to persevere and prosper as the circular cycles of both nature and time begin again.

Jeremiah A.R. Cunningham, MA, Adjunct Professor of Religious Studies and the Humanities, Jefferson Community and Technical College

Peltokipa Iktomi Sapa Wakan, Lakota Tradition: Water Pourer and Sundancer

Three Unities: The Foundation of Our Belief

I am a member of the Bahai Faith, and as part of the foundation of our belief are three unities: the unity of God, the unity of mankind and the unity of religion.

Unity of God means that God, an unknowable essence, has created the entire universe, the earth and human beings out of His love for creation. Because of this divine love, He has provided guidance and education for us by sending divine educators, which we know as prophets, messengers or manifestations. Regardless of their title, they have provided humanity guidance throughout history based on needs and capacities at every age and every generation.

This means the unity of religion is continuously being evolved.

Unity of mankind is irrespective of our race, gender, country or origin, education or socioeconomic states, we are members of one family.

The tabernacle of unity has been raised regard ye not one another as strangers ye are the fruits of one tree and the leaves of one branch Bahullh. Bahullh teaches me that unless I accept and love those who came before Him, like Moses, Lord Jesus Christ, and Muhammad, I cannot claim to love because theyre all on the same, so this time is very sacred.

I respect and celebrate it with my Christian sisters, brothers and friends without the fanfare and materialistic aspects of it, which to me, to some extent, takes away from the real meaning of the birth, life and sacrifice - an example of Jesus Christ. I share that with my sisters and brothers and family and join in their festivities.

Dr. Jahangir Cyrus, servant of the community and physician, Family Health Center

Grandparents menorah holds sentimental value

I grew up in a Jewish family, and my husband and I raised two Jewish children, so we have always celebrated Hanukkah. We light the menorah, an eight-limbed candelabra, for eight successive nights. We start by lighting one candle and add one each night of the holiday.

We have several menorahs, but the one I most like using is from my grandparents home. When our kids were little, it was especially meaningful to connect generations who never met one another with this special object. One theme of Hanukkah is light in dark places, and spreading light is what I remember my grandparents doing throughout their lives.

This year, we visited my mom for the holiday, but needed to be socially distant, so we lit a menorah together in her garage. I never expected to celebrate Hanukkah that way, but we did it. The candles indeed burned bright, even in the garage. And that is 2020 in a nutshell.

Deb Frockt, Chief Executive Officer, Jewish Family & Career Services

A time to celebrate our culture and we eat

Hanukkah is a time to celebrate our culture and heritage as Jews . . . and to eat (an important part of our culture and heritage). Frying potato latkes, saying blessings while lighting the menorah and telling an ancient story (or, as they say on TV, based on a true story) are all traditions (which, by the way, share no significance with Christmas, except for the calendar).

Our familys celebration includes my husband, Michael Ginsbergs, re-enactment of Herschel and the Hanukkah Goblins. Herschel saves Hanukkah through trickery and courage, mischief and mayhem, and pickles and hard-boiled eggs. In the end, our Jewish faith and the spirit of helping others is celebrated . . . and we eat.

Jeri Swinton-Ginsberg, Retired CEO, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kentuckiana

Saying Happy Holidays is a good place to start

It wasnt until I started working with refugees and immigrants that I realized how difficult it is to not be a Christian during the holidays." While I can make a distinction between Christianity and all of the holiday fanfare, many of my international neighbors from different cultures and religious traditions are not, and so it seems a little overwhelming. There may be no other time in the year when the hegemonic force of white/Christian/capitalism is more oppressive than during the Christmas holidays. This is not to say dont practice Christianity and Christmas.

As a sacred humanist, I deeply appreciate the stories, traditions and practices of Christianity and Christmas, and find in them a powerful and universal message for all of humanity. However, the challenge seems to be how Christians can practice them faithfully in the context of a pluralistic and diverse country. A simple shift in saying, "happy holidays, as opposed to Merry Christmas is a good place to start. If the three wise men, in the Christmas story, were able to see beyond their traditions honor the Christ child, then surely, we can do the same for them.

Jud Hendrix, Executive Director, Interfaith Paths To Peace

Lets step out of comfort zone and help one another

As a Muslim, we do not celebrate Christmas as Christians would do, but we do believe in Jesus Christ as being a prophet sent from God. We celebrate his birth, and we are motivated by one of the two greatest attributes that God has given us: mercifulness and compassion. If you look at our holy book, you'll see these two attributes included in the very first sentence of every chapter. Almost every chapter begins with, "In the name of God, the most merciful and the compassionate."

We need to attain as many attributes as we can that reflects our holiness, our God. During the holidays, these are the times that we need to reflect on being merciful and compassionate toward others. Some people are not getting the justice that they deserve, so we need to be their voices. We need to be their supporters.

I believe this is the time for us to be even more compassionate toward one another and try to really step out of our comfort zone and help one another. This pandemic really has given us a tremendous opportunity to show our humanity and be able to be a good friend to other brothers and sisters of ours and to show our humanity at its best. If we are fortunate enough to be able to do that, in my perspective, that is the best way that we can celebrate this holiday season, not just in our community but also in our world. I don't like to limit my humanity within my community but extend it all throughout the world. Anything that I can do, as one human being for others, that's something that motivates me, inspires me to do more.

My children are both in the medical field, so they don't take time off. They keep themselves available so that others can spend some time with their families. They're going to be working during the holiday season and give their time on the frontline.

Haleh Karimi, Lecturer, University of Louisville College of Business

We send prayers for the community and entire world

We have very big holy days commemorating the Buddha's birthday, enlightenment and death date for a month each year. We follow the Lunar calendar, so its usually in May or June. During these holy days, we are learning and remembering the great kindness of the Buddha and all the followers, and the Indian masters because Buddhism comes from India. During this month there are special teachings, meditations and giving to people who are in need. In India, there are many poor families near our Monastery, so we provide rice and food.

We also recognize Christmas as a holy day for many people. At our center in Louisville we eat together, as well as practice prayers, rituals, and meditation. It is also a time we send prayers and wishes for the community and the entire world.

At the end of the year, we offer dedication prayers in which we commit any good that has come from our efforts throughout the year to help those who are suffering now. We offer these prayers to try to ease the suffering of others during this special holiday season time in December.

Geshe Rapgyal, Teacher and Executive Director, Drepung Gomang Center for Engaging Compassion

Giving Christmas gifts means brotherly love

Christmas is my absolute favorite time of the year, and I love the Advent season. I love celebrating, decorating. I started buying gifts in the summer and was done by October 31st. I love the representation of what God gave to us, which is why I like giving gifts.

I also love that we get a new year with new opportunities, and it seems as if everyone seems to have a better attitude and outlook about new chances and renewed spirit. This season is about the birth of a new chance, it's birth of new opportunity and most of all, the birth of our savior.

Even though its my absolute favorite time of the year, I have to admit, this year's been a little difficult because its the first year without my brother. My mother is having a difficult time because she's spent 47 years with him, and now he's not going to be here.

There have been some sometimes, especially in October I thought, "What am I going to get my brother for Christmas?" Well, I bought all his friends something for Christmas, because they are now my little brothers.

But no matter what has happened this year, this season is still a remembrance that tomorrow is a new opportunity. That's what I love about this time of the year.

Marsha Thornton, Jr. Administrative Assistant

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What the Holidays Mean to Me: Community partners share the importance of this season - LouisvilleKy.gov

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Posted By admin on December 22, 2020

Consistent with the cheer that surrounded life when we all had to get dressed and leave the house for work, the sector was at its playful best for the return of Museum Selfie Dayas 2020 began. A firm favourite at M+H HQ remains this corker from the Isle of Man.

Both the Natural History Museum and Horniman Museum and Gardens laid out their plans to tackle the climate crisis in January, and National Lottery Heritage Fund partnered with the Museums + Heritage Awards for a first-of-its-kind sustainability prize.

Why National Lottery Heritage Fund wants to find the Sustainable Project of the Year

Continuing the green theme, National Trust unveiled apledge to plant 20 million trees in its pursuit of net zero by 2030. The organisation has also since announced plans to replace its plastic membership cards with super-strength, recyclable and compostable paper alternatives.

Another year, another culture secretary. When Oliver Dowden was appointed in February he cannot have envisaged the year that lay ahead. Despite the role having been something of a hot potato through the past decade, the Hertsmere MP looks set to continue in post for the foreseeable.

Oliver Dowden Parliament (CC-BY 3.0)

A social media sensation was already gathering traction by this point in the year. The Muse dOrsay had employed an Instagrammer-in-residence to reinterpret classic artworks on the platform throughout 2020.

The innovative residency making the Muse dOrsay an Instagram hit

Still, digital engagement was never going to be an essential strand of a museums work in 2020. Right?

Elsewhere, Arts Council Englands latest diversity report presented what Nicholas Serota labelled a disappointing picture and the Migration Museum relocated to Lewisham Shopping Centre in order to reach new audiences. Tate Modern also unveiled spectacular plans for a 20th birthday party.

The news continued to flow throughout the month as V&A Dundee sped to the one million visitor milestone, Jewish Museum London announced its intention to pursue a new direction outside Arts Council Englands National Portfolio, and fashion proved hugely popular with visitors at V&A Londononce again.

Benedict Johnson Photography

This fateful month saw everything change. Foreshadowing the inexplicable events that would follow, the Louvre surpassed its own visitor record almost 1.1 million people attended its Leonardo da Vinci retrospective before promptly closing its doors as fears surrounding Covid-19 grew.

The die was cast.

Our doors may be closedbut we are still there for our visitors

Birmingham Museums showed, not for the last time in 2020, that it was keen to get ahead of the curve; opening up its collections to global online audiences in March.

BBC Arts also unveiled a mini-season of programming dedicated to connecting locked down society with the nations cultural institutions.

Digital quickly became all. The BP Portrait Award was among the first staples of the cultural calendar to proceed virtually, while organisations including English Heritage, Historic England and Imperial War Museums rallied to support beleaguered schools in delivering history lessons.

After shedding a fusty image in favour of fun and gamesduring the summer of 2019, cathedrals were once again showing their willingness to innovate this time in response to a physical disconnect between themselves and their congregations.

Cathedrals innovate once again to survive and thrive during lockdown

The very best of the sector was in plain evidence as lockdown caused untold pain for people across the nation. The amount of outreach work developed on the hoof was incredible, with organisations like The Auckland Project feeding vulnerable families and Wellcome offering NHS workers respite amid the chaos.

The Auckland Project

Even in the depths of despair, museums quickly adapted and returned to doing what they do best. Museum of London was one of the earliest to spring into action, beginning in April to collect relics of the pandemic for future exhibitions.

As a heavily furloughed public quickly got to grips with consuming online content, Hastings Contemporary was left overwhelmed and delighted when huge demand for its Robot Tours meant bookings had to be rationed for the most vulnerable members of society.

Hastings Contemporary overwhelmed by interest in Robot Tours

For those still working, never-ending Zoom calls became the norm. Some jobs, however, required a whole other level of ingenuity to complete while wearing PJs.

SS Great Britain: How does museum conservation work continue from home?

Back on the environmental trail, Natural History Museum showed off its ambitious plans to turn its South Kensington gardens into a biodiversity hub. At a time when the nation was obsessed with any time outdoors, the announcement couldnt have been better scheduled.

Some things that worked this year would probably never have been so popular at any other time. The decision by Kettles Yard, for instance, to launch a live feed of its empty gallery space may have bemusedaudiences in 2019. For 2020, this was quiet, contemplative bliss.

Kettles Yard takes Instagram inspiration for relaxing live stream

Aprilalso saw the announcement that Philip Long OBE, V&A Dundees inaugural director, would become the National Trust for Scotlands new chief executive. Quite a moment to be taking on such a role.

Finally, after months of waiting, the r word began popping up in May.REOPENING.

As governmental restrictions began to gradually uncoil across Europe, museums including the Rijksmuseum in the Netherlands and Guggenheim Museum Bilbao on the Spanish coast revealed plans to welcome visitors.

Rijksmuseum

Soon it was happening in the UK, with the National Trust announcing mandatory timed ticketing would be integral to its plans for safely reopening its outdoor spaces.

Key appointments were rife in May. Neil Mendoza took his place at the head of a new Cultural Renewal taskforce, Wellcome revealed former Australian prime minister Julia Gillard was to become its next chair, and Tate confirmed Roland Rudd would succeed Lionel Barberonits Board.

Last but by no means least, Captain Tom Moore became the first honorary patron of Imperial War Museums.

Just when the virtual tour had become something of aubiquitous experience, the British Library blended the format with a retro video game. The result was an utter joy.

As European institutions continued to blaze a trail for Covid-secure reopening, UK museums were left to anxiously await permission towelcome the public despite shops and other businesses being given the go ahead.

Shops and zoos set for relaunch as museums left in the dark over future

Despite all the setbacks, museums were once again stepping in to fill a void hewn by the pandemic. This time it was the V&A doing all it could to give frustrated festival-goers their Glastonbury fix after the iconic event was cancelled.

Most major 2020 openingshad been indefinitelypushed back by this juncture, with the vast Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles probably most expensive project put on ice.

Other long-term infrastructureschemes were, however, marching on unperturbed. Plans were approved for a new Museum of London site and the National Portrait Gallerys three-year closure for major redevelopment was set to continue on schedule.

Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, Wilshire Boulevard and Fairfax Avenue Renzo Piano Building Workshop/Academy Museum Foundation/Images from LAutre Image

A few eyebrows were raised by one of the years more notable hires, as Dr Doug Gurr, former country manager of Amazon UK, was confirmed as Natural History Museums pick for director.

Amazon UK chief appointed as new Natural History Museum director

Even with all that having occurred, the biggest story of June was the continued groundswell of support for the Black Lives Matter movement and the increasing focus of protests on the culture sector.

The toppling of Edward Colstons statue into Bristol Harbour was just the start, with the heritage sectors perceived complicity in perpetuating colonial ideologies and institutional racism under the microscope like never before.

After a year in which calls for decolinisation reached new heights, Dr Errol Francis discusses how this can be achieved in practice.

Museums + Heritage Autumn Series Podcast: Decolonisation, with Dr Errol Francis

Imperial War Museums became the first organisation of its kind to join the Stop Hate for Profit campaign this summer. A boycott of Facebook ensued and the institution drew plaudits for taking a stance on the spread of disinformation and hate speech online.

The first UK museum has officially joined the Facebook boycott. Should others follow?

A major step forward was taken for accessibility, too, with a landmark policy stipulating that all new public buildings will be required to install Changing Places facilities.

July was the month when announcing reopening plans became an art form of its own. Creative videos were rife, and some museums efforts still deserve another watch.

Reopening videos and tackling Tik Tok: the sectors pandemic multimedia learning curve

Once sites had reopened, the notion of what constitutes an exhibition became increasingly malleable. A sell-out drive thru show in the Netherlands and a London venue that provided the chance to gaze at an exhibition without having to go indoors proved hugely popular in the era of socially distanced recreation.

Similarly forced to embrace a new approach, the 2020 Turner Prize was reimagined rather than cancelled. The ten artists sharing bursaries were announced in the summer.

Another innovation that probably wouldnt have received as much attention in any other year was a series of audio tours curated by security staff. Having had the galleries to themselves for several months, nobody was better placed!

Aad Hoogendoorn

Having spent time carefully considering its substance, arts diversity charity Culture& launched a Black Lives Matter Charter in July.

Debates around repatriation, restitution and reinterpretation continue to blaze on now, and 2020 may well be looked on as a key year in a struggle that snakes back centuries.

Black Lives Matter, Benin Bronzes and Britishness: how can UK museums decolonise?

Despite tuxedos having been usurped by jogging bottoms for many of the 4,300 viewers, the first ever virtual Museums + Heritage Awards celebrated the sectors achievements with its customary gusto in September.

Winners announced at the first ever virtual Museums + Heritage Awards 2020

The month also saw several notable appointments made.

Dr Anjana Khatwa joined Wessex Museums to help boost engagement with underserved audiences and, in a news story that proved one of our most shared of the year, Birmingham Museums Trust announced Sara Wajid and Zak Mensah would be taking on a job share as joint CEOs.

The National Trust releasing a document exploring historic links to slavery at 93 of its properties proved one of the most-discussed publications of 2020, with conversations regarding how the heritage sector should deal with problematic practices of the past once again becoming mainstream news.

The Scottish Government sought to firmly position itself in the context of this debate, sponsoring an independent expert group make recommendations on how museums can better represent the mistakes and atrocities of the past.

Art Fund Museum of the Year was the latest annual event to be conducted outside its usual format, with five winners splitting an expanded 200,000 prize pot this time around all of which was announced live on The One Show.

If ever a turn of events aptly summed up the tumult of 2020 it was that, a matter of days after being confirmed as one of these five successful institutions, Science Museum announced it was reviewing substantial job cuts in order to stem expected losses of around 23 million.

Art Fund Museum of the Year winner braced for job cuts as 23m losses predicted

Multi-million pound deficits were being announced by museums and heritage attractions on an almost daily basis by the autumn.

Social media giant Facebook stepped in to support Bletchley Park with a 1 million donation, citing the Buckinghamshire sites work in laying the foundations of modern computer science as the reason for its concern.

A mural of Alan Turing made out of dominoes at Facebooks headquarters in Menlo Park, California Facebook

Only a few weeks after the Scottish Government unveiled its aforementioned scheme to assess the portrayal of colonial pasts in the nations museums, Sir Geoff Palmer OBE was appointed chair of a steering group leading this work.

Palmer to chair independent review of Scotlands colonial past in museum collections

One of the more intriguing appointments of 2020 saw Luton Council hire its first ever heritage enabler to boost community engagement with the areas cultural offer. The experimental role has been fully funded by National Lottery Heritage Fund.

National Lottery funding allows Luton Council to appoint first ever heritage enabler

In what seemed like another positive step in raising the profile of accessibility issues, November saw the Tower of Londons New Armouries Building become the oldest public site registered on the Changing Places UK Toilet Map.

Another landmark achievement drew near this December, with Kids in Museums having edged towards 1,000 signatories to its Manifesto. 2021 looks set to be yet another very exciting year for the organisation.

Back at its innovative best, Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery ended a year of digital dynamism by becoming the first official museum partner of online curatorial game Occupy White Walls a move which has already opened up the site and its collection to a new raft of global fans.

Innovative online game partnership allows Birmingham Museums to reach new, global audiences

Rounding of a very trying year, the pivotal role Christmas shoppers could play in supporting museums whether or not they were open to the public became a key priority.

The #ShopMuseums and #MuseumShopSunday campaigns sought to unite the sector in promoting the offerings of museum shops, with organisations such as The Piece Hall in Halifax doing all they could to support the independent businesses renting commercial spaces.

Piece Hall blends in-store and online Christmas shopping to protect independent businesses

News from Exeters Royal Albert Memorial Museum is, however, perhaps the best way to end a look back at 2020. This month it announced pre-booked tickets were no longer mandatory breaking what had become uniformly implemented Covid-secure practice across the sector.

While only a small change, it is nevertheless a symbolic leap towards a normalcy which many will have all but forgotten. This serves as a timely reminder that brighter times free from one-way systems and sanitisation will be a reality once more.

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Looking back at 2020, a year like no other in the museums and heritage sector - Museums + Heritage Advisor

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Posted By admin on December 22, 2020

A stinging open letter signed by a coalition of African-American pastors inGeorgiablasted Republican Sen. Kelly Loefflers attacks on rival Rev. Raphael Warnock as a broader assault on the faith traditions of Black congregations.

Loeffler has attempted to tarnish the Democratic pastors reputation by repeatedly calling him a radical, a socialist and a radical liberal.

The letter, signed by more than 100 religious leaders, presented Warnocks support for social justice as an integral element of his faith. When Loeffler attacks that, she attacks Warnocks religion and the faith of Black congregations who believe in the same religious values, it stated.

We see your attacks against Warnock as a broader attack against the Black Church and faith traditions for which we stand, the letter charged.

The letter demanded that Loeffler stop her false attacks on Warnocks social justice theological and faith traditions, which visualizes a just and ardent world where love, fairness and equal justice under the law for marginalized people of all races is not only accepted as an authentic prophetic message in the tradition of Dr. Martin Luther King, but also a central message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ,according to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

The letter also attacked Loefflers support of President Donald Trumps baseless claim of election fraud in Georgia and his attempt to overturn the presidential election results.

What can be more radical, more seditious than supporting 59 attempts to overthrow the will of the people by tossing Black votes? the letter asked.

Warnock, the senior pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, emphasized the link between his social values and his religion in a tweet on Sunday:

Loeffler hit back at Warnock on Twitter and referred to the religious leaders open letter:

Earlier this month, Jewish activist organization Bend the Arc retweeted a photo of Loeffler posing with Chester Doles, a former KKK leader who served time in prison for almost beating a Black man to death. Loefflers campaign claimed she had no idea who Doles was. But Loeffler has a history of posing with white supremacists and other extremists.

Last week, she and Georgia Sen. David Perdue said they adamantly opposed changing the name of the Atlanta Braves baseball team. The name, they said, honors our nations Native American heritage.

Loeffler, who paints herself as a Second Amendment supporter, has also saidthat Black protesters who legally carried guns during a demonstration were practicing mob rule.

Pressed on her controversial statements in a debate against Warnock earlier this month, Loeffler insisted: There is not a racist bone in my body.

She and Purdue face runoff elections on Jan. 5 against their Democratic rivals that will determine which party controls the Senate.

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Pastors: Kelly Loeffler's Smear Of Rev. Raphael Warnock Is Broad Assault On The Black Church - HuffPost

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Posted By admin on December 22, 2020

Published: 12/21/2020 5:46:12 PM

Police are continuing to investigate who is responsible for shooting out seven of the nine lights on the menorah on the Dartmouth College green with what appears to be a pellet gun last week.

Dartmouth President Phil Hanlon called the incident an appalling act of anti-Semitism that went beyond vandalism or a prank because it seeks to diminish the rich culture and history of the Jewish people.

The college did proceed with lighting the eighth candle Thursday night, and a group of community members came to show support for the areas Jewish community.

Shira Hoffer, a 19-year-old from Hanover, attended the gathering. As an intern for the Anti-Defamation League of New England, Hoffer says shes been dealing with reports of vandalism and anti-Semitism in other forms. But it was a jarring experience to have this happen in her town.

I was surprised that this happened here, in part because its a very close-knit town and you never really imagined this type of thing would happen in your town, she said.

Hoffer said the group went through a pretty standard menorah lighting. The rabbi said a few words, and the eighth light was lit.

It was still poignant for Hoffer because, she says, one of the goals of the Jewish holiday is to publicly display the miracle of Hanukkah.

Youre going to try and destroy our public declaration of faith, and were going to come back the next night and fulfill the commandment anyway, she said.

The menorah is now in the colleges maintenance shop for repair.

Hanover police and Dartmouth security are investigating the incident. In a statement Friday, Hanover police said they had not found video that showed the area of the menorah. The department says that the incident happened between Tuesday and Wednesday night.

If anyone has more information, theyre encouraged to call 603-643-2222.

These articles are being shared by partners in The Granite State News Collaborative. For more information visit collaborativenh.org.

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After Dartmouth menorah was vandalized, Hanover police seek more information - Concord Monitor

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Posted By admin on December 22, 2020

By Leah Asmelash, CNN

(CNN) -- The state of New York will no longer sell or display anything considered a "symbol of hate," including the Confederate flag, according to a bill just signed into law.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed the bill, which goes into effect immediately, on Tuesday. Introduced earlier this year, the bill prohibits the "selling or displaying of symbols of hate or any similar image, or tangible personal property, inscribed with such an image" on public property.

"The term 'symbols of hate' shall include, but not be limited to, symbols of White supremacy, neo-Nazi ideology or the battle flag of the Confederacy," it continues.

The Confederate emblem has long been a divisive symbol, with some claiming it represents heritage and pride, and others arguing it represents racism. Regardless, it has become popular among White supremacist groups and is considered a hate symbol by the Anti-Defamation League.

In his approval memorandum, Cuomo highlighted growing attitudes of intolerance and hate as a reason for the bill.

"The horrific rash of anti-Semitic, anti-African American, anti-Hispanic and anti-LGBTQ behavior spreading across the United States is repugnant to our values as New Yorkers and Americans, and a new generation now bears witness to a rising tide of discrimination, hatred and violence that threatens generations of progress," he wrote.

"By limiting the display and sale of the confederate flag, Nazi swastika and other symbols of hatred from being displayed or sold on state property, including the state fairgrounds, this bill will help safeguard New Yorkers from the fear-instilling effects of these abhorrent symbols."

It's been a year of reckoning for the Confederate battle flag. As Americans began to grapple with systemic racism, the flag has increasingly fallen out of favor.

Earlier this year, the US Navy and the Marines banned displays of the flag. Voters in Mississippi, whose state flag used to include the Confederate battle emblem, approved changing the flag to one incorporating a magnolia flower.

NASCAR announced in June it would prohibit the display of the Confederate flag at all events after Bubba Wallace -- the only full-time Black driver on the cup circuit -- said racetracks shouldn't allow them.

The-CNN-Wire & 2020 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.

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New York bans display of Confederate flag and other hate symbols on state grounds - WDJT

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Posted By admin on December 22, 2020

The Proud Boys were seen wearing kilts made by LGBTQ-owned clothing company Verillas. Here's how the company responded. USA TODAY

The photo sparked horror among Verillas employees.

It was a picture that showed members of the Proud Boys, designated as a hate groupby the Southern Poverty Law Center, a liberal advocacy organization, wearing black and yellow kilts designed by the clothing company.

Justin LaRose, the brands vice president, said he feared the LGBTQ-owned companys clothes were being co-opted by a group whose message Verillas is directly against.

Verillas responded to the photo on Twitter. The company said it was disgusted to see the Proud Boys wearing its clothes during a rally against the 2020 presidential election results last weekend in Washington, D.C.. It also pledged to donate $1,000 to the NAACP after seeing about$750 worth of its merchandise in the photo.

We're against everything they stand for, Verillas said about the Proud Boys in a tweet.

What followed was an outpouring of support.

LaRose said he originally feared Verillas a small Virginia-based company with 10 people thats been around since 2014 wouldnt have the voice or the reach to stop the Proud Boys from getting the first say about their clothes.

Almost immediately, like within an hour, people were behind us and they were amplifying our message because they recognized how small we are and how little power and how little say we had in the situation to begin with, LaRose told USA TODAY on Wednesday.

'Reclaim our pride': Gay men take over Proud Boys hashtag on Twitter

He added, It was relieving, it was empowering and it felt amazing.

Kilts on Verillas range in price from about $45 for a half kilt to roughly $500. The brand has several LGBTQ+ Pride designs, too. Other things for sale include hoodies, boots, a tunic and fairy wings.

We want as open and inclusive as possible about fashion, La Rose said, adding We want to represent all forms of the human body in an amazing and flattering way and we want to be as inclusive as possible for anybody who identifies any which way they please.

Members of the Proud Boys, wearing kilts, gather outside of Harry's bar during a protest on Dec. 12, 2020, in Washington, D.C.(Photo: Stephanie Keith, Getty Images)

Another clothing company has already denounced the Proud Boys. Members frequently wear black and yellow Fred Perry polo shirts, according to the Anti-Defamation League. In September, the brand released a statement saying it does not support and is in no way affiliated with the Proud Boys.

Verillas owner Allister Greenbrier told the BBC that Verillas has removed the yellow and black kilt design from its website.

Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Washington DC on December 12 to show support for President Donald Trump. Storyful

Who are the Proud Boys?Far-right group has concerned experts for years

"I can't control who buys my product, but if they're buying our product, they're putting their money towards a good cause and I think they won't be too happy when they find out they accidentally bought from a company that's really fighting for the opposite of what they believe in," Greenbrier told the BBC.

Verillas is thankful for the support, LaRose said.

What were working on now is, now that we have this support and we have this voice, how to use it in the right way," he said. "We just hope we have some time and can do some good.

The Proud Boys gained notoriety during the presidential election. President Donald Trump, when asked to denounce white supremacists during the first debate against Democratic nominee Joe Biden, told the Proud Boys tostand back and stand by.

According to the Anti-Defamation League, members of the Proud Boys have been known to engage in violent tactics; several members have been convicted of violent crimes."

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'We're against everything they stand for': LGBTQ-owned clothing company Verillas pushes back after Proud Boys wear its kilts - USA TODAY

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Posted By admin on December 22, 2020

BOSTON In an exclusive video interview with Boston Real Estate Times, Thomas OBrien, founding partner and managing director of Boston-based The HYM Investment Group, LLC, talks about the citys newest luxury high-rise residential tower The Sudbury,his vision for the Bulfinch Crossing Development in Boston, overall market conditions, impact of current pandemic on both commercial residential markets and his take on 2021.

To watch the full interview, please click here, or on the image below:

The Sudbury contains 423 Residential Units (368 apartments for rent, 55 condominiums for sale) and totals 45 stories (480 feet). Condo sales are being managed by Campion and Company, and apartment leasing is being managed by Bozzuto.

Part of the larger Bulfinch Crossing development, no other residential building offers the exclusive views that The Sudbury does, with a breathtaking perspective of Boston Harbor, The North End, The Charles River and the Boston skyline.

Centrally located in the heart of downtown, The Sudbury gives residents close proximity to the restaurants of the North End, the Boston Public Market, the TD Garden, and the open space and public art of the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway.

Mr. OBrien previously served as a Managing Partner for JPI, a national owner of multifamily communities, and as a Managing Director in Boston and New York for Tishman Speyer, one of the worlds leading real estate firms.

Mr. OBrien also led the Boston Redevelopment Authority as its Director and Chief of Staff, overseeing the development of over 12 million square feet of projects in Boston, from 1994 to 2000. He has served as Chairman of The Greater Boston Real Estate Board and currently serves on the Board of the Taubman Center for State and Local Government at Harvard University and as Vice Chair of the Board of Overseers of The Anti-Defamation League of New England.

In 2011, the Governor of Massachusetts appointed Mr. OBrien to the Board of the Massachusetts Housing Finance Agency. In 2016, Mayor Martin J. Walsh appointed Mr. OBrien to the Board of Trustees of the Rose F. Kennedy Greenway Conservancy. He is a graduate of Brown University and Suffolk University Law School, and is a member of the Massachusetts Bar.

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Thomas O'Brien on Boston's Newest Luxury High-Rise Residential Tower, Bulfinch Crossing Development, Pandemic and 2021 - Boston Real Estate Times

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