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From Art to Diplomacy: How Jewish Leaders and Thinkers Shaped History and Modernity

In this article, we delve into the impact of Jewish public figures on the global stage, exploring their role in shaping political landscapes and cultural events

The Impact of Jewish Public Figures on World Politics and Culture

From prominent politicians to renowned artists, Jews have made significant contributions that have shaped our world.

With their diverse backgrounds and experiences, Jewish public figures have played a key role in promoting social change, advocating for human rights, and shaping cultural narratives. Their influence can be seen in a variety of fields, such as literature, art, music, and film, where Jewish artists have left an indelible mark on creativity and expression.

By exploring the contributions of Jewish public figures, together with the plinko game team, we aim to shed light on the enormous impact they have had on shaping our world.

Historical Background: The Role of Jewish Intellectuals and Leaders Throughout History

The historical narrative of Jewish intellectuals and leaders is rich and complex, woven into the fabric of many societies across the globe. From ancient times, Jews have contributed to various fields, including philosophy, science, and politics. Figures such as Maimonides and Spinoza have significantly influenced Western thought through their philosophical writings. These intellectuals not only shaped Jewish culture but also left a lasting mark on global intellectual history, challenging prevailing norms and encouraging critical thinking.

The struggle for social justice and human rights has often found expression through Jewish leaders. Throughout history, Jews have faced persecution and discrimination, which has fueled their commitment to advocating for justice. The Jewish experience of diaspora has led to a unique perspective on oppression and resilience, enabling Jewish leaders to become champions for the marginalized. Their contributions to movements for civil rights and social justice have been instrumental in shaping contemporary political landscapes, particularly in the United States and Europe.

Moreover, the integration of Jewish intellectuals into broader societal frameworks has fostered cross-cultural dialogues. Jewish figures have often acted as bridges between cultures, promoting understanding and collaboration. This historical backdrop sets the stage for examining the specific contributions of contemporary Jewish public figures in politics and culture, highlighting how their legacy continues to influence the world today.

Jewish Public Figures in Politics: Notable Examples and Their Impact on Global Affairs

Jewish politicians have played pivotal roles in shaping global politics, often taking on leadership positions that have allowed them to influence significant policy decisions.

One notable example is Henry Kissinger, who served as the United States Secretary of State and National Security Advisor. Kissinger’s approach to foreign policy, particularly during the Cold War, emphasized diplomacy and realpolitik. His efforts in negotiating peace agreements, such as the Paris Peace Accords, demonstrate the power of Jewish public figures in navigating complex international relations.

Another influential figure is Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the late Supreme Court Justice known for her staunch advocacy for gender equality and civil rights. Ginsburg’s legal opinions and dissents have had a profound impact on American jurisprudence, often pushing the boundaries of what is considered constitutional. Her legacy as a champion for women’s rights and social justice continues to inspire generations, illustrating the power of Jewish individuals to drive change within the legal and political arenas.

Additionally, figures like Benjamin Netanyahu have made significant contributions to political discourse on a global scale. As the Prime Minister of Israel, Netanyahu has been at the helm during crucial moments in Israeli history, navigating the complexities of Middle Eastern politics. His approach to security and foreign policy has sparked both support and controversy, reflecting the intricate dynamics of Jewish leadership in geopolitics. These examples underscore the diverse roles Jewish public figures have played in influencing global affairs, shaping policies that resonate far beyond their immediate contexts.

Jewish Public Figures in Culture: Contributions to Art, Literature, Music, and Entertainment

The cultural contributions of Jewish public figures are equally profound, spanning various artistic fields and leaving an indelible mark on global culture. In literature, authors like Philip Roth and Elie Wiesel have explored themes of identity, memory, and the human condition through their poignant narratives. Roth’s exploration of Jewish identity in America challenged stereotypes and opened dialogues about cultural belonging, while Wiesel’s memoirs on the Holocaust serve as powerful reminders of resilience and the importance of remembrance.

In the realm of music, Jewish artists have made significant contributions that transcend genres. From the classical compositions of Leonard Bernstein to the revolutionary sounds of Bob Dylan, Jewish musicians have shaped the musical landscape. Bernstein’s work in classical music and Broadway has left a legacy of artistic excellence, while Dylan’s lyrics reflect a deep engagement with social issues and human emotions. These artists not only entertain but also provoke thought and inspire social change through their craft.

Furthermore, the film industry has been significantly influenced by Jewish filmmakers and actors, with figures like Steven Spielberg and Natalie Portman leading the charge. Spielberg’s films often address complex moral dilemmas and historical narratives, while Portman’s work as an actress and director champions diverse stories and perspectives. Through their storytelling, these artists contribute to cultural discourse, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in an increasingly divided world. The influence of Jewish public figures in culture is a testament to their creativity and commitment to social issues, enriching the global cultural landscape.

Controversies and Criticisms: Examining the Debates Surrounding Jewish Influence

Despite the significant contributions of Jewish public figures, their influence has not been without controversy. Debates surrounding Jewish influence often arise, particularly in the context of politics and media. Critics sometimes allege that Jewish individuals hold disproportionate power in various sectors, leading to accusations of conspiracy and manipulation. These narratives can perpetuate harmful stereotypes and contribute to anti-Semitic sentiment, highlighting the need for critical examination of such claims.

It is essential to differentiate between legitimate discussions about influence and the perpetuation of conspiracy theories that seek to scapegoat Jewish communities. Many Jewish public figures have risen to prominence through hard work, talent, and advocacy, rather than through nefarious means. Acknowledging their contributions while recognizing the complexities of their influence can foster nuanced discussions that combat anti-Semitism and promote understanding.

Moreover, the portrayal of Jewish individuals in media and popular culture can contribute to the reinforcement of stereotypes. It is crucial to critically engage with these representations and advocate for more diverse and accurate portrayals of Jewish life. Through education and dialogue, society can challenge misconceptions and celebrate the multifaceted contributions of Jewish public figures to politics, culture, and beyond.

The Jewish Diaspora and Its Impact on Global Networks

The Jewish diaspora has created a rich tapestry of experiences and connections that have influenced global networks. Historically, Jews have migrated to various regions, often forming tight-knit communities that have contributed to local cultures while maintaining their unique identity. This ability to adapt and thrive in diverse environments has enabled Jewish individuals to forge important connections across borders, creating a network of influence that extends beyond geographical boundaries.

The diaspora has facilitated the exchange of ideas, fostering a global dialogue that has enriched cultural and political landscapes. Jewish communities around the world often engage in philanthropy and social activism, addressing pressing issues such as poverty, education, and human rights. Organizations like the Jewish Federation and various international NGOs reflect the commitment of the Jewish diaspora to contribute positively to society, promoting social justice and intercultural understanding.

Furthermore, the interconnectedness of the Jewish diaspora has allowed for a robust exchange of knowledge and resources. Jewish public figures often draw on their diverse backgrounds and experiences, leveraging their networks to advocate for change on a global scale. This collaborative approach underscores the importance of community and solidarity in addressing complex challenges, highlighting the enduring influence of the Jewish diaspora in shaping global networks.

Case Studies: Examining Specific Individuals and Their Contributions

To illustrate the profound influence of Jewish public figures, we can examine specific case studies that highlight their contributions across various domains. One notable example is the late Shimon Peres, who served as the President and Prime Minister of Israel. Peres was a visionary leader known for his efforts in promoting peace in the Middle East. His role in the Oslo Accords exemplifies the potential for dialogue and compromise in resolving longstanding conflicts.

In the realm of art, Marc Chagall stands out as a revolutionary painter whose works encapsulate the essence of Jewish identity and culture. Chagall’s unique style, characterized by vibrant colors and dreamlike imagery, reflects his experiences as a Jewish artist navigating the complexities of the 20th century. His contributions to modern art have influenced generations of artists and continue to resonate in contemporary creative expressions.

Another significant figure is Ruth Messinger, a prominent advocate for social justice and former president of American Jewish World Service. Messinger’s work in international development highlights the intersection of Jewish values and global humanitarian efforts. Through her leadership, she has raised awareness about issues such as poverty and human rights, demonstrating the capacity of Jewish public figures to effect change on a global scale. These case studies underscore the diverse contributions of Jewish individuals, illustrating how their legacies continue to shape our world today.

The Power of Jewish Organizations and Lobbying Groups

Jewish organizations and lobbying groups have played a vital role in advocating for Jewish interests and promoting social change. Organizations such as the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) have been instrumental in shaping public policy and fostering community engagement. These organizations work tirelessly to combat anti-Semitism, promote civil rights, and strengthen ties between Israel and the United States.

The influence of Jewish lobbying groups extends beyond domestic politics, impacting international relations as well. AIPAC, for instance, has been a significant player in advocating for strong U.S.-Israel relations, leveraging political connections to promote policies that align with Jewish interests. The effectiveness of these organizations highlights the importance of collective action and advocacy in achieving political goals and addressing pressing social issues.

Moreover, Jewish organizations often serve as platforms for community engagement and activism. They provide resources for education, cultural programming, and social services, fostering a sense of community and belonging among Jewish individuals. By mobilizing collective resources and voices, these organizations play a crucial role in amplifying the contributions of Jewish public figures and advocating for diverse perspectives within the broader societal context.

Debunking Myths and Stereotypes: Separating Fact from Fiction

Addressing the myths and stereotypes surrounding Jewish influence is essential for fostering a more accurate understanding of their contributions. Misconceptions about Jewish individuals often stem from historical prejudices and societal biases, which can distort perceptions and promote harmful narratives. It is crucial to engage in open conversations that challenge these stereotypes and promote a more nuanced understanding of Jewish identity and influence.

Many myths surrounding Jewish individuals are rooted in conspiratorial thinking, suggesting that Jews exert undue control over various sectors, including finance, media, and politics. These narratives often lack empirical evidence and serve to scapegoat Jewish communities for broader societal issues. By critically examining these claims and promoting factual information, we can combat anti-Semitism and foster a more inclusive dialogue about the contributions of Jewish public figures.

Education plays a vital role in debunking myths and stereotypes. By promoting awareness of Jewish history, culture, and achievements, we can cultivate understanding and empathy. Initiatives that celebrate Jewish contributions to society can help counteract negative narratives and highlight the diverse perspectives within the Jewish community. Ultimately, fostering a culture of dialogue and education is essential for promoting inclusivity and understanding in our increasingly interconnected world.

Conclusion

The influence of Jewish public figures on global politics and culture is a testament to their resilience, creativity, and commitment to social justice. From shaping political landscapes to enriching cultural narratives, Jewish individuals have made significant contributions that continue to resonate today. Their diverse backgrounds and experiences have enabled them to navigate complex societal challenges, advocating for change and promoting understanding across cultures.

As we reflect on the ongoing influence of Jewish public figures, it is crucial to recognize the importance of diverse perspectives in shaping our world. The contributions of Jewish individuals serve as a reminder of the power of collaboration and collective action in addressing pressing issues. By embracing diversity and promoting dialogue, we can foster a more inclusive society that values the contributions of all individuals, regardless of their background.

In conclusion, the legacy of Jewish public figures is multifaceted and enduring. Their impact on global politics and culture underscores the importance of recognizing and celebrating diverse voices. By continuing to explore and appreciate these contributions, we can foster a deeper understanding of our shared human experience and work towards a more just and equitable world for all.

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Antisemitism in the Medical Profession in Canada

Dr. Gem Newman, who gave the valedictory address at the 2024 graduation of medical students from the Ernest Rady College of Medicine

By HENRY SREBRNIK (June 27, 2025) Antisemitism in Canada now flourishes even where few would expect to confront it. Since the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, there has been a resurgence of antisemitism noticeable in the world of healthcare. 

When Israeli Gill Kazevman applied to medical school, and circulated his CV to physician mentors, their most consistent feedback was, “Do not mention anything relating to Israel,” he told National Post journalist Sharon Kirkey in an Aug. 10, 2024, story. As a student at the University of Toronto’s Temerty Faculty of Medicine, “I began to see all kinds of caricatures against Jews. I saw faculty members, people in power, people that I’m supposed to rely on, post horrible things against Jews, against Israelis,” he added. The faculty created a Senior Advisor on Antisemitism, Dr. Ayelet Kuper, who in a report released in 2022, confirmed widespread anti-Jewish hatred.

The Jewish Medical Association of Ontario (JMAO) conducted a 2024 survey of 944 Jewish doctors and medical students from across Canada. Two thirds of respondents were “concerned that antisemitic bias from peers or educators will negatively affect their careers.” Dr. Lisa Salomon, JMAO’s president, reported that at the University of Toronto medical school only 11 Jewish students were completing their first year of medical school out of a class of 291. The medical school in 1974 saw 46 Jews in a class of 218.

Also in Toronto, Hillel Ontario called on Toronto Metropolitan University to investigate Dr. Maher El-Masri, who has served as the director of the Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing, because, the group contended, he has “repeatedly engaged with and spread extreme, antisemitic, and deeply polarizing content on his social media account.”

The National Post’s Ari Blaff in an article on June 12, 2025 quoted social media posts from an account Hillel claimed belongs to Dr. Maher El-Masri, who has been the director of the Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing. One message concerned a post about Noa Marciano, an Israeli intelligence soldier abducted by Hamas on Oct. 7, 2023, who later died in captivity. “This is what is so scary about people like her,” the TMU professor wrote. “They look so normal and innocent, but they hide monstrous killers in their sick, brainwashed minds.” Israel, he asserted a day after the Hillel notice, “is a baby killer state. It always has been.”

The Quebec Jewish Physicians Association (AMJQ) is fighting antisemitism in that province. Montreal cardiologist Dr. Lior Bibas, who also teaches at Université de Montréal, co-founded the group in the weeks following the October 7 terrorist attack. They feel young doctors have been bearing the brunt of anti-Israel sentiment since then. “We heard that trainees were having a hard time,” he told Joel Ceausu of the Canadian Jewish News Feb. 3. “We saw a worsening of the situation and were hearing stories of trainees removed from study groups, others put on the defensive about what’s happening,” and some saw relationships with residents deteriorating very quickly. 

Dr. Bibas thinks there are similarities with Ontario counterparts. “Trainees are getting the brunt of all this. Their entire training ecosystem — relationships with peers and physicians — has changed.” Whether anti-Zionist remarks, blaming Jews for Israel’s actions, or other behaviour, it can be debilitating in a grueling academic and career setting. The fear of retaliation is so strong, that some students were unwilling to report incidents, even anonymously.

Jewish physicians have now founded a national umbrella group, the Canadian Federation of Jewish Medical Associations (CFJMA), linking the provinces, and representing over 2,000 Jewish physicians and medical learners, advocating for their interests and promoting culturally safe care for Jewish patients. And “it’s really been nonstop, given that we have a lot of issues,” Dr. Bibas told me in a conversation June 17. “People have been feeling that there’s been a weaponization of health care against Israel.”

He stressed that health care should remain politically neutral – meetings are an inappropriate venue in which to talk about the war in Gaza, he stated, and “this will just lead to arguments.” Nor should doctors, nurses and hospital staff wear pins with Palestinian maps or flags. And no Jewish patient being wheeled into an operating room should see this “symbol of hate.” 

On Jan. 6, a group of Montreal-area medical professionals walked off the job to protest outside Radio-Canada offices, calling for an arms embargo, ceasefire and medical boycotts of Israel. Those who could not attend were encouraged to wear pins and keffiyehs to work. When asked if such a walkout should be sanctioned, Quebec Health Minister Christian Dubé’s office had no comment. Neither did the Collège des médecins (CDM) that governs professional responsibilities. The leadership of many institutions have remained passive.

B’nai Brith Canada recently exposed a group channel, hosted on the social media platform Discord, in which Quebec students engaged in antisemitic, racist, misogynistic and homophobic rhetoric. More than 1,400 applicants to Quebec medical schools, as well as currently enrolled medical school students, were in the group, which was ostensibly set up to support students preparing for admission to Quebec’s four medical programs. “I saw it, and it’s vile,” remarked Dr. Bibas, noting how brazenly some of the commentators expressed themselves, using Islamist rhetoric and Nazi-era imagery, such as referring to Anne Frank as “the rat in the attic.”

Doctors Against Racism and Antisemitism (DARA) said in a statement, “These messages are the direct result of the inaction and prolonged silence of medical school and university leaders across Canada since October 7, 2023, in the face of the meteoric rise of antisemitism in their institutions. Silence is no longer an option. Quebec’s medical schools and universities must act immediately. These candidates must not be admitted to medical school.” DARA member Dr. Philip Berger stated that “there’s been a free flow, really, an avalanche of anti-Israel propaganda, relentlessly sliding into Canadian medical faculties and on university campuses.”

In Winnipeg, a valedictory speech delivered to the 2024 class of medical school students graduating from the Max Rady College of Medicine at the University of Manitoba on May 16, 2024 set off a storm of controversy, as reported by Bernie Bellan in this newspaper. It involved a strongly worded criticism of Israel by Dr. Gem Newman. “I call on my fellow graduates to oppose injustice -and violence — individual and systemic” in Palestine, “where Israel’s deliberate targeting of hospitals and other civilian infrastructure has led to more than 35,000 deaths and widespread famine and disease.” The newspaper noted that “loud cheers erupted at that point from among the students.”

 The next day, the dean of the college, Dr. Peter Nickerson, issued a strongly worded criticism of Dr. Newman’s remarks. On Monday, May 20, Ernest Rady, who made a donation of $30 million to the University of Manitoba in 2016, and whose father, Max Rady, now has his name on the school, sent an email in response to Dr. Newman’s remarks.

“I write to you today because I was both hurt and appalled by the remarks the valedictorian, Gem Newman, gave at last week’s Max Rady College of Medicine convocation, and I was extremely disappointed in the University’s inadequate response. Newman’s speech not only dishonored the memory of my father, but also disrespected and disparaged Jewish people as a whole, including the Jewish students who were in attendance at that convocation.”

In subsequent weeks Jewish physicians in Manitoba organized themselves into a new group, “The Jewish Physicians of Manitoba.” As Dr. Michael Boroditsky, who was then President of Doctors Manitoba, noted, “Jewish physicians in cities across Canada and the U.S. have been forming formal associations in response to heightened antisemitism following the Hamas massacre of October 7.”

After October 7, Jewish students at the University of Calgary’s Cumming School of Medicine reported exposure to repeated antisemitic posts by peers on social media, being subject to antisemitic presentations endorsed by faculty during mandatory classes, social exclusion and hateful targeting by university-funded student groups, and removal from learning environments or opportunities subsequent to antisemitic tirades made by faculty in public spaces. 

In addition to online vitriol, medical students have been subject to antisemitic actions coordinated by university-funded student groups with physician-faculty support under the guise of advocating against the actions of the Israeli government. All instances of discrimination, they stated in a brief, have been witnessed by and/or reported to senior leadership of the medical school without incurring condemnation of the discrimination.

In Vancouver, social media posts vilifying Israel and espousing Jew hatred were circulated by physicians at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of British Columbia, noted an article in the National Post of May 25, 2025. Allegations included Christ-killing, organ trafficking, and other nefarious conspiracies supposedly hatched by Jewish doctors. Some asserted that Jewish faculty should not be allowed to adjudicate resident matching because the examining doctors were Jewish and might be racist. 

In November of 2023, one-third of all UBC medical students signed a petition endorsing this call. Jewish learners who refused to sign were harassed by staff and students on social media. When challenged, the Dean of the medical faculty refused to recognize antisemitism as a problem at UBC or to meet with the representatives of almost 300 Jewish physicians who had signed a letter expressing concern about the tolerance of Jew hatred, and the danger of a toxic hyper-politicized academic environment. This led to the public resignation of Dr. Ted Rosenberg, a senior Jewish faculty member.

Here in the Maritimes, things seem less dire. I spoke to Dr. Ian Epstein, a faculty member in the Division of Digestive Care & Endoscopy at the Dalhousie University Faculty of Medicine. He helps coordinate a group supporting Jewish and Israeli faculty, residents and medical students. 

“Our group is certainly aware of growing antisemitism. Many are hiding their Jewish identities. There have been instances resulting in Jewish and Israeli students being excluded and becoming isolated. It has been hard to have non-Jewish colleagues understand. That said our group has come together when needed, and we have not faced some of the same challenges as larger centres,” Dr. Epstein told me. Dalhousie has also taken a stand against academic boycotts of Israel, which some view as a form of antisemitism.  The University of Prince Edward Island in Charlottetown has just opened a new medical school. Let’s hope this doesn’t happen here.

Lior Bibas in Montreal indicated that his group is worried “not only as Jewish doctors and professionals, but for Jewish patients who are more than ever concerned with who they’re meeting.” Can we really conceive of a future where you’re not sure if “the doctor will hate you now?”

Henry Srebrnik is a political science professor at the University of Prince Edward Island.

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Features

I Speak “Jew”

Morrocan Jewish fish dish

By MARK E. PAULL I grew up in Montreal. Born in 1956. Anglo by birth, sure. But that never quite fit. I don’t speak “Anglo” the way they mean it. My real language is Jew.
And I don’t mean Hebrew or Yiddish. I mean the language of reading the room before you enter it. The code-switching, shame-dodging, laugh-first-so-they-don’t-pounce dialect we pick up early. It’s a language built on side-eyes and timing and ten generations of tension.
I speak French—enough to make myself understood. Enough to charm a dinner table, crack a joke, get someone’s uncle to nod. I’m not fluent, but I’m fast. Doesn’t matter. In Quebec, language isn’t grammar—it’s inheritance. It’s who your grandfather cursed out in a hardware store.
To the Francophones, I’ll never be one of them. My accent betrays me before I say a word. I’m just an Anglo. And not even that, really. Because when the lens tightens, when they look closely, I’m just un Juif. Just a Jew.
And to the Anglos? Same thing. I can wear the suit, speak the Queen’s English, order the wine properly—still a Jew. Even in rooms where I “pass,” I don’t belong. I’m not invited in to be myself. I’m invited in to behave. To be safe. To not say the thing that makes the air stiff.
We’re the only people still called by our religion. No one says “Orthodox” for a Greek. No one says “Vatican” for an Italian. No one calls a Black man “Baptist” before they see his face. But “Jew”? That sticks. That’s the label. Before passport. Before language. Before hello.
I’ve mostly made peace with that. But there’s still this ache—knowing you can live your whole life in a place and never really be from there.
Let me tell you a story.
We had this block party once—the folding-table, paper-plate kind. Kids zipping by on scooters. Music low. Everyone asked to bring something from “your culture.”
The Greek guy brought lemon potatoes and lamb—felt like it came with a side of Byzantine history. The Italians brought two lasagnas—meat and veggie—with basil placed like confetti. The Vietnamese couple brought shrimp rolls that vanished before they hit the table. Even the German guy—built like a fridge—brought bratwurst and a six-pack with gothic lettering.
And then us.
My partner made Moroccan fish. Her grandmother’s recipe. Red with tomatoes, garlic, cumin. Studded with olives and preserved lemon. I brought a bottle of white wine. Dry. Crisp. From the Golan Heights. Not Manischewitz. Not even close.
We laid it out. Someone leaned over: “Moroccan? But I thought you were Jewish.”
We smiled. “We are.”
Then: “So… where’s the brisket? Isn’t Jewish wine supposed to be sweet?”
That’s when it hits you. No matter how long you’ve lived here, how many snowstorms you’ve shoveled through, you’re still explaining yourself. Still translating your presence.
Because they don’t know. They don’t know Jews came from everywhere. That “Jewish” isn’t one dish—it’s a whole map. That we had Jews in Morocco before there was even a France. That some of us grew up on kreplach, some on kefta. That some of our mothers sang in Yiddish, others in Arabic, and some in both—depending on who was knocking.
They don’t know. And worse—they don’t ask.
And that’s the part that gets you. Not the slurs. Not the graffiti. Not even the occasional muttered cliché. It’s the blankness. The shrug. The image they already have of you that’s built out of dreidels and sitcoms.
“Jewish” as nostalgic. As novelty. Something they saw once on a bagel.
Sometimes, when those questions come, I float. One version of me walks out. Another turns into a mouse. One turns into a Frisbee. Just gone. Not mad. Just tired.
Because being a Jew isn’t cute. It’s not nostalgic.
It’s ancient.
Before Montreal.
Before France.
Before Poland. Before Spain.
Before pogroms.
Before ghettos.
Before Hitler.
Before even the word Europe.
We were there.
Go back to the 5th century. 2nd century.
Go back to Jesus—our kid, by the way.
Go further—Babylon. Persia.
Keep going—Temple. Exile. Wandering.
And still, after all that, I’m at a table in Quebec explaining why our fish has cumin in it.
It’s almost funny. If it didn’t wear you down a little.
I’m not looking for pity. This isn’t a complaint.
I’m proud. I know what I carry. I walk into any room with five thousand years behind me. I come from people who kept the lights on through every kind of darkness—and laughed through it, too.
But sometimes, I just wish I didn’t have to explain so much.
All I want is to put down my dish…
…and hear someone say:
“That smells amazing. Tell me the story.”

That’s all.


Mark E. Paull, C.A.C. is a Certified ADHD Coach – IPHM, CMA, IIC&M, CPD Certified
Writer | Lived-Experience Advocate | Type 1 Diabetic since 1967

He has been published in:
The New York Times, The Globe and Mail, Folklife Magazine, Times of Israel, CHADD’s Attention Magazine, The Good Men Project

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At 104, Besse Gurevich last original resident of Shaftesbury Park Retirement Residence

By MYRON LOVE At 104, Besse Gurevich is the last of the original residents of Shaftesbury Park Retirement Residence. She may also be the oldest member of our Jewish community.
Although her vision and her hearing have diminished considerably, her mind and memory are still intact.  A few weeks back, this writer sat down with her in her suite as she recalled a life filled with highs and lows and her many  contributions to her community, both in Winnipeg and Fort William before that.
The daughter of Jack and Rebecca Avit, her life’s journey began in 1921 in a home on Carlton Street near Ellice Avenue, near her father’s furniture store.  He later operated a cap factory.
When she was ten, the family – she had two brothers and a sister – moved to Manitoba Avenue in the old North End. “My father had put a deposit down on a house on Scotia,” she recalls.  “But my parents didn’t feel that the neighbourhood was Jewish enough.”
Her schooling included Peretz School and, like so many of her generation, St. John’s Tech (as it was known back then.)  “I was actually supposed to be going to Isaac Newton for high school,” she says.  We were living on the wrong side of the tracks for St. John’s.  After one day at Isaac Newton, I found a way to transfer to St. John’s.”
In 1940, 19-year-old Bessie Avit married Jack Gurevich, a young man from Fort William.  The wedding was marred though, by the sudden, untimely passing of her father.
Following the wedding, Besse moved with her new husband to Fort William where Jack Gurevich worked in retail clothing sales.  “We lived in Fort William for 20 years,” she says.  “Our three children (Judy, Richard and Howard) were born there.”
She recalls that there were about 200 Jewish families – including her sister and one of her brothers for some years – in town, during the time she lived there. “We were very well known in the community,” she recalls. “I was involved in everything.”
Her community activism continued after the family’s return to her home town. While Jack went to work as a salesman for Western Glove Works, Besse became an indefatigable community volunteer. At one time or another, she served as vice-president of ORT, Hadassah and National Council of Jewish Women in Winnipeg. She was also a long time B’nai Brith member.
In the business world, the highlight of her career was the building of Linden Woods.  “I became involved in real estate development for a time,” she recalls. “I was hired by Genstar to develop Linden Woods.  The company estimated that it would take about 20 years to complete.  I got it done in two.”
She also taught hair dressing for a while. “I worked with many young Jewish brides,” she says.
Recent years have not been kind to Besse Gurevich. Her beloved husband, Jack, died in 2016 – after almost 65 years of marriage.  Older son, Richard, passed away in Vancouver in 2018 and, most recently –six months ago – younger son, Howard, followed.  She notes that there were 200 mourners at Howard’s funeral.
(Howard Gurevich was in marketing for many years before turning his talents to the art world. In recent years, he was best known for Gurevich Fine Art in the Exchange District and his support of local artists.)
Besse Gurevich celebrated her 100th birthday – which took place at the height of the Covid shutdown – quietly. 
While she used to enjoy reading. she is unable to do so any more. She can still listen to television.
And while she has few family members to visit her any more, she does have a group of friends interesting enough from the local theatre scene.  For many years, she was a close friend of the late Doreen Brownstone, one of the leading figures in theatre in Winnipeg for more than half a century.  Besse became part of the group that would visit Doreen every week and, since Doreen passed on three years ago, the members of the group have continued to visit Besse on a weekly basis.  

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