Prior to the High Holidays, the New York Board of Rabbis previewed its official Jewish New York History and Heritage Map, which they planned to post it on its website at the end of September. Well, the map’s not up yet, but this delay doesn’t seem so severe. Particularly given that the map has been seven years in the making.
There were many important mahlokets to be settled:
Are the childhood homes of Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein to be included? Yes
Is a drawing of a religious man pushing a baby carriage inaccurate or even offensive? No
Can Sarah Jessica Parker be the “perfect” figure to represent contemporary Jews, because she is the product of a mixed marriage? Obviously.
Will I look ridiculous using this map on the streets of New York? Clearly.
Will I download a copy as soon as I can? You bet.
