The European Days of Jewish Culture 2024: Family
EDJC 2024 news
As the activities of the European Days of Jewish Culture 2024 unfold, we are discovering the successes and achievements of the coordinators behind them. Find out some news about this year’s festival below:
Exploring Family as a central theme for the EDJC 2024
“Family” in European Jewish culture is a theme with a range of dimensions and depth. It encompasses the enduring influence of tradition, from biblical narratives of patriarchs and matriarchs to the timeless commandment to “Honour thy father and mother.” These traditions continue to shape contemporary family life and family, roles and models, connecting the past to the present.
In today’s world, Jewish families face the delicate balance of preserving heritage while adapting to the demands of modern life, the challenging issues of diverse family structures like interfaith marriages, LGBTIQA+ and family dynamics. Moreover, the evolving role of women within Jewish families, transitioning from traditional to more inclusive positions, adds a fascinating dimension to the discussion.
Beyond blood relations, the concept of a “chosen family” and close-knit communities as extended families are vital aspects of European Jewish culture. This dimension also provides an opportunity to reflect on historical events that have profoundly shaped the understanding of family within European Jewish communities, such as the Holocaust and the Jewish diaspora.
Europe’s tapestry of Jewish communities, each with its unique traditions and customs, further enriches our exploration of family. The diversity in family rituals and values serves as a testament to the richness of Jewish culture in the region. Understanding generational shifts in how family is perceived and how cultural values are transmitted is essential. How do younger generations interpret and carry forward the traditions of their ancestors while adapting to the contemporary world, how our oldest family members are supported and are part of an educational path for their grandchildren who take on the heritage of the Jewish experience, complex, challenging and fascinating, but often marked by a dramatic recent history.
Looking ahead, we contemplate how the concept of family may evolve within the European Jewish context, addressing emerging dynamics and challenges to ensure the continued strength and relevance of Jewish family life in Europe. This multifaceted theme offers a comprehensive perspective on the significance of “Family” in European Jewish culture, bridging the traditions of the past with the dynamism of the present and future.
The fundamental objective of this European-wide event, which has been organised since 1999, is to highlight the diversity and richness of Judaism and its local, regional and national historical importance, with the firm intention of promoting dialogue, recognition and exchange through conferences, concerts, performances, guided tours and other activities, which take place simultaneously throughout the continent.
The European Days of Jewish Culture festival is held every year around a central theme that serves as inspiration for all the activities that take place in a decentralised, pluralistic and open way from the first Sunday in September. The AEPJ has coordinated this event at European level since its beginnings, giving cohesion, visibility and relevance to the activities organised. In addition, the AEPJ offers training, resources and support to any organisation, institution or individual who wishes to organise an activity that allows Jewish culture to be shared with the whole of society.
This project has been extensively reinforced by the collaboration with the National Library of Israel, which has acted as a means to develop all kinds of exhibition and educational materials, which have given an important added value to the festival while facilitating its celebration throughout the continent.
EDJC 2024 National Websites
Some countries are coordinating the EDJC 2024 activities on a joint basis through their own website. Links to the National Websites can be found below:
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TEMOIGNAGE SUR UNE FAMILLE DANS LA TOURMENTE A LA MAIRIE DU 16E ARRONDISSEMENT
International Jewish Festival “SHALOM IN ALL THE WORLD”
Are you an organiser or do you want to organise an activity for the EDJC 2024?
Please follow our application process in order to organise a European Days of Jewish Culture 2024 activity and be featured in the official programme.
