Every February, Black History Month invites us to reflect on the profound contributions of Black Americans whose leadership, creativity, courage, and advocacy have shaped our nation. It is also an opportunity to recognize the rich diversity that exists within the Jewish community—including the powerful voices and experiences of Black American Jews.

Jewish tradition teaches that every person is created b’tzelem Elohim—in the image of God. This belief calls us to build communities rooted in dignity, respect, and belonging. At the Merage JCC, that principle is central to who we are.

Our campus strives to be a place where everyone feels welcomed and valued—no matter where they worship, their background, their age, or their lifestyle. Whether someone joins us for a cultural program, a fitness class, a film screening, a family event, or simply to meet friends for coffee, the JCC is a gathering place where people connect, celebrate culture, and strengthen community together.

During Black History Month, we can look to several remarkable Black Jewish leaders and creatives whose work has influenced Jewish life, American culture, and the broader world.

Rabbi Capers Funnye
Rabbi Capers Funnye has been a pioneering voice for inclusion and Jewish unity. As Chief Rabbi of the International Israelite Board of Rabbis and spiritual leader of Beth Shalom B’nai Zaken Ethiopian Hebrew Congregation in Chicago, he has worked tirelessly to build bridges between African American and Jewish communities while affirming the identity and experiences of Black Jews.

Rabbi Sandra Lawson
Rabbi Sandra Lawson is one of the first openly gay Black female rabbis and a powerful advocate for representation in Jewish spaces. Through teaching, writing, and community leadership, she champions a Judaism that reflects the full diversity of the Jewish people.

Tiffany Haddish
Award-winning actress and comedian Tiffany Haddish has spoken openly about her Jewish heritage and even celebrated her bat mitzvah as an adult. Known for films like Girls Trip and her vibrant comedic voice, Haddish proudly embraces both her African American and Jewish identities.

Tracee Ellis Ross
Emmy-nominated actress Tracee Ellis Ross—known for her roles in Black-ish and Girlfriends—has Jewish heritage through her father and has long celebrated the cultural richness of her family background. Beyond acting, she is widely recognized as a fashion icon and entrepreneur who promotes confidence, creativity, and individuality.

Amar'e Stoudemire
Former NBA All-Star Amar’e Stoudemire developed a deep connection to Judaism later in life and formally converted in 2020. During his basketball career, he played for teams including the New York Knicks and the Phoenix Suns before later playing professionally in Israel with Hapoel Jerusalem. Stoudemire has spoken openly about how Judaism shaped his spiritual journey and identity, even adopting the Hebrew name Yahoshafat Ben Avraham. Today, he continues to be an advocate for Jewish learning and connection.

Michael W. Twitty
Chef, historian, and author Michael W. Twitty explores the powerful intersection of African American and Jewish culinary traditions. His award-winning book Kosher Soul examines how food tells the story of identity, migration, and culture—demonstrating how cuisine can connect communities across history and geography.

At the Merage JCC, we believe Jewish community is strongest when it reflects the diversity of the people who make it vibrant. Our goal is simple: to ensure that every person who walks through our doors feels welcomed, supported, and connected.

The JCC is a place where:

• Families gather to celebrate holidays and traditions
• Children explore creativity, learning, and friendship
• Adults pursue wellness, culture, and lifelong learning
• Community members connect across generations and backgrounds

Programs in arts, culture, food, and community dialogue create opportunities for people to learn from one another and celebrate the many stories that make up Jewish life.

Black History Month reminds us that the story of the Jewish people is enriched by many voices, cultures, and experiences. By honoring Black Jewish leaders across faith, arts, sports, and culinary traditions, we celebrate a community that is vibrant, dynamic, and continually evolving.

Together, we celebrate history, honor diversity, and build community; today and for generations to come.

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