A seat at the table: enjoying inclusion at our Passover seder
In partnership with Repair the World, Ohr HaOlam, Temple Emanuel, and Hebrew Educational Alliance, JFS Jewish Disabilities Advocates (JDA) was thrilled to bring to the community the second annual Disability Justice Passover Seder on April 18.
This free, accessible seder, open to the public, gathered individuals with and without disabilities in support of disability awareness, inclusion, and belonging. More than 60 people attended in person, and several joined virtually. The JDA Haverim and JFS Best Buddies groups participated, along with individuals with a wide variety of disabilities and disability-affirming community members.
This seder featured a custom Haggadah, traditional Jewish music, and a warm, engaging atmosphere. Accessibility accommodations included wheelchair access, visual aids, ASL interpretation, ventilated areas, quiet spaces, and a virtual attendance option with closed captions.
The event was a true collaborative effort, and we extend our thanks to:
Temple Emanuel for hosting the event with a wonderful, accessible in-person space and amazing staff and technology support.
Rabbi Bobbie Rosenberg of Ohr HaOlam for leading the lovely service.
Eitan Kantor, Music Director of the Hebrew Educational Alliance, and Jessie Sanders who led us in joyous music and singing.
Rebecca Farquharson for providing ASL interpretation for in-person and virtual attendees.
Cohen's Catering for preparing the Passover Seder plates and delicious nosh.
As one participant commented, the event was “spectacular and beautiful! What a wonderful experience that was incredibly well planned and run with clear accessibility. Thank you!”
We’re excited to make both our Disability Justice Passover Seder and our Disability Justice Sukkot Celebration annual traditions with even more community participation!
The JFS Jewish Disabilities Advocates Collaborative includes 12 organizations across the Denver and Boulder areas working to improve inclusion and belonging for individuals with a broad range of disabilities and their families. JDA Haverim and JFS Best Buddies are groups of adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) that connect with each other and with the Jewish community.