The ever-evolving story of Jews in America.
ONLINE
TUESDAYS, 12-1:30pm (ET), Oct. 20, 27; Nov. 3, 10, 17; Dec 1, 8, 15; Jan. 5, 12
Course Description :
What does it mean for the Jewish people to be part of the grand, novel experiment that is the United States? “We the People “offers a layered look at the state of the union between a nation and its people.
“We the People” is a ten-lesson course balancing history with a deep dive into popular culture, antisemitism, food, and Israel. Together, we will encounter the diversity of lived experiences that make the Jewish community what it is—a story that is ever-evolving and flourishing.
By taking this learning journey together, “We the People” invites you to reflect on the deep roots of the past so that you can better evaluate current trends and confidently imagine where the American Jewish community might go next.
TUESDAYS, 12-1:30pm (ET)
Dr. Ben Zion “Benzy” Kogen is a leadership and education consultant with decades of experience in Jewish education and nonprofit leadership. A faculty member at the Melton School for Adult Jewish Studies (Hebrew University), he teaches widely on Jewish history, texts, ethics, and culture.
He has held senior roles at Camp Ramah, serves as Cantor at the Jewish Home for the Aging, and founded “Your Shabbat Guest” to enrich Shabbat experiences. An acclaimed educator, he has taught learners of all ages across North America.
Benzy has held numerous community leadership positions, including with the USCJ Board of Directors, and holds degrees from Columbia University, the Jewish Theological Seminary, and Teachers College. In 2023, he received an Honorary Doctorate from JTS. He lives in Reseda, CA, with his wife, three children, and seven grandchildren.
