The American Jewish Committee's Black Jewish Seder 2014

On April 3rd, 2014 a delegation of Davis Academy 7th grade students represented The Davis Academy at the American Jewish Committee's biannual Black-Jewish Seder. The seder is an Atlanta tradition that brings together members of the Jewish and African American communities to explore the common themes of slavery, freedom, and ethical responsibility that the two communities share. More than 200 people gathered including many prominent members of both communities. An absolute highlight of the event for all in attendance was when the Davis delegation ascended to the dais to lead the "four questions." For at least half of the attendees this was their first Passover Seder and therefore their first time hearing these questions.

This picture shows the Davis delegation with Father Jeffrey Ott and Rabbi David Spinrad as well as a member of Father Ott's church. The video below shows the conclusion of the Seder when everyone joined arm in arm to sing "We Shall Overcome."

 

 

 

Why did The Davis Academy send a delegation to this Passover Seder? There were no other school age children to speak of. The reason is because we want our students to understand the diversity of Jewish life in Atlanta. We want them to understand that they can help elevate an already amazing event to a new level by virtue of their attendance and participation. We want them to know that Judaism is about building bridges of tolerance and understanding as well as about moving us to act on behalf of our principles and convictions.