Diversity and Pride at My Jewish Summer Camp

Advertisement

Aviva Davis shares how both Camp Be’chol Lashon and Camp Ramah in California have shaped her Jewish identity on the Jewish& blog.

Judaism has been a part of my life since I was born. My mother snuck Shabbat candles into the hospital in preparation for my birth and I was born on Shabbos afternoon surrounded by my family and future friends, all welcoming Shabbat and my existence. As a child, I was raised primarily by my Jewish, African-American mother, Denise. I am honored to say that she converted to this amazing religion and that I am 100% Jewish.

As soon as I turned five, she signed me up for Hebrew school. For seven years, I studied the Hebrew alphabet and dozens of prayers. By the time my Bat Mitzvah rolled around last year, I had memorized every prayer I had studied, but I was nervous. So I used my Bat Mitzvah folder as a memory tool and looking down helped avoid the stares of the 200 guests!

Continue reading here>>

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

Discover More

The Jewish Leap Year Explained

Why the Jewish year sometimes adds an extra month of Adar and how that changes holidays and Torah readings.

Ask the Expert: Is Sex Permitted on Shabbat?

Sex isn't only permitted on Shabbat — it's encouraged.

Ask the Expert: Can I Make Kiddush on a Jell-O Shot?

If a Jell-O shot is made from kosher wine, can it be used for Kiddush on Shabbat?

Advertisement