This month is intended to remind us that ALL Jews, without regard to disability, must have access to Jewish life – to work live, love, play, learn and worship how and where they choose, and to contribute to this wonderful place we call our Greater MetroWest Jewish community.
JSDD and the WAE Center is engaged in bringing artwork, artists, and residents into a few congregations to spread the word about abilities and inclusion in Jewish life. While the notion of inclusion may sound abstract, it is in fact, a daily practice rooted in the practical. We need only remember to look and notice the needs of those around us, which are different than ours, and act to provide equal access to all. Everyone holds a piece of the puzzle which creates full inclusion.
2.3.23 – Oheb Shalom Congregation is welcoming members of our community to share in a shabbat supper and service where the clergy along with WAE Director, Harry Klein will speak about inclusion. The Art exhibit will be in the temple for the entire month of February and some of the Wae products will be on sale in the sisterhood gift shop.
https://www.ohebshalom.org/
2.10.23 – Temple Ner Tamid in Bloomfield, will host a large exhibit of the work of WAE artists and residents. The Shabbat service dedicated to JDAIM will include members and residents who wish to participate in the service and share insights into the art practice and WAE experiences. https://www.nertamid.org/
2.24.23 – Temple B’nai Abraham in Livingston will welcome residents of our West Orange and Livingston homes. The artwork of those same members will be on display in the lobby of the temple for the month of February. Executive Director, Linda Press will be addressing the congregation and speaking of the work of JSDD, and the ways in which inclusion is a day to day practice which enriches everyone. https://tbanj.org/
Monthly Minyan at Adath Shalom of Morris Plains. A consistent partner in conducting an Open Door Minyan once a month which is impactful for everyone involved and in attendance. https://www.adathshalom.net/open-door-minyan
Heidi Gallery at JSDD will be hosting an exhibit featuring the work of WAE art facilitators along with their students and fellow artists. The Mentor | Mentee exhibit will be open to the public from 2.1.23 – 3.31.23, Monday – Friday from 9-4:30. On exhibit will be the personal work of art facilitators, along with the work being created in all three art studios – Makers Studio (Pre-Vocational), Art Studio I and the Digital Art Studio.
Facilitators Include: Faye Graye, Phebe Khalil, Yvette Lucas, Lisette Rotman, Onnie Strother, Esther Tanahashi, and Bill Hall