A Journey Through Jewish Heritage: Food, History & Family

In honor of Jewish American Heritage Month, AARP New York is offering two special events that highlight Jewish culture, tradition, and personal discovery. Whether you're interested in the deep roots of Jewish communities in Italy or want to begin exploring your own ancestry, these experiences are free and open to the public.

1. Explore Jewish Italy: History, Culture, Food & Travel

Italy is home to Europe’s oldest Jewish community, dating back to 200 BC in ancient Rome. Join thought leader Francine Segan for a virtual journey through Italy’s rich Jewish heritage, uncovering centuries of history, culture, and cuisine.

On April 30 from 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. ET, explore the traditions behind cucina ebraica, or the “Hebrew kitchen,” featuring beloved dishes like sour cherry cheesecake from Rome’s Forno del Ghetto and fried artichokes prepared alla giudia (Jewish-style). Discover how Jewish communities across Italy influenced regional flavors, creating unique dishes that are still enjoyed today.

A Journey Through History:
This event will take you beyond the kitchen, offering a guided virtual tour of Italy’s most significant Jewish heritage sites:

• Venice’s original ghetto, established in 1516, the first of its kind in the world. 
  
• Rome’s Jewish Heritage Museum, home to artifacts spanning centuries of Jewish life in Italy. 
  
• Florence’s grand Moorish-style synagogue, built in 1882, an architectural gem. 
  
• Pitigliano, Tuscany’s "Little Jerusalem," a town with a rich Jewish legacy dating back to the 16th century. 

Discovering Culinary Traditions:
Food has always been a powerful connection to history. Francine Segan will dive into the stories behind classic dishes, highlighting how Jewish communities adapted local ingredients while preserving their culinary traditions. Learn about the origins of goose salami, a kosher alternative to pork, and why desserts like ricotta-based sour cherry cheesecake remain iconic in Italian Jewish kitchens.

2. Getting Started with Jewish Genealogy:
Looking to trace your family’s Jewish roots but unsure where to begin? Join AARP New York and the New York Genealogical and Biographical Society for an in-person event designed to help you get started.

On May 7 from 4 p.m. – 5 p.m. ET, visit the AARP New York office at 750 Third Avenue, 31st Floor, New York, NY 10017, for a beginner-friendly session led by thought leader Lauren Shulsky Orenstein. You’ll learn how to begin researching Jewish ancestry, what online tools and resources are available, and how to navigate them effectively.

This event is ideal for anyone curious about family history or looking to take the first steps into genealogy research in a supportive, informative setting.

How to Join:
Both events are free and open to the public. AARP membership is not required.

• Register for Jewish Italy: events.aarp.org/JewishItaly 
  
• Register for Jewish Genealogy: https://events.aarp.org/event/JewishGenealogy3725 

Stay Connected with AARP New York:
Discover more events and opportunities to engage with AARP New York and your community by visiting aarp.org/local.

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