Temple Emanu-El announced the launch of a new, multi-year lecture series dedicated to strengthening Black–Jewish relations and confronting antisemitism and racism together through sustained learning and dialogue.
The series, Shared Histories, Shared Futures: The Arielle Patrick & Aaron Goldstein Initiative on Black–Jewish Relations, is endowed by Arielle Patrick and Aaron Goldstein, longtime members of the congregation. Conceived by Patrick and Goldstein, the initiative is committed to a minimum five-year run and reflects a belief that meaningful communal work must be intentional, ongoing, and rooted in relationship.
Drawing on the legacy of Black-Jewish allyship during the Civil Rights Movement, the series will explore how antisemitism and racism intersect today, while elevating voices that model inclusive leadership and shared responsibility across communities. Speakers will include scholars and historians, Black Jews whose lived experiences deepen conversations about identity and belonging, and leaders across faith, culture, business, and the arts.
“This initiative reflects Temple Emanu-El’s long-standing commitment to justice, intellectual rigor, and welcoming the full diversity of Jewish life,” said Rabbi Joshua Davidson, Peter and Mary Kalikow Senior Rabbinic Chair. “We are deeply grateful to Arielle and Aaron for their vision and generosity in ensuring this series becomes a lasting part of our congregation’s educational and civic life.”
Patrick and Goldstein emphasized the personal roots of the initiative. “Temple Emanu-El has been a spiritual home for our family at every stage of life,” they said. “We are honored to partner with the congregation in creating space for learning that is courageous, compassionate, and grounded in the belief that our histories — and our futures — are deeply connected.”
The inaugural lecture will take place during a special Shabbat worship service on Friday, May 29, 2026 at 6:00 PM at Temple Emanu-El. Programs will be open to the broader community and accessible both in person and virtually. Speaker announcements and additional dates will be released in the coming months.
