MORE THAN 1,000 JEWS GATHER FOR LIMMUD FSU NEW YORK 2017

There are currently an estimated 200,000 Russian Jews in the Tri-State area and 700,000 in the United States. Rep. Nita Lowey, D-N.Y., opened the exhibition on Leonard Cohen’s life and Jewish roots on Friday

‍May 14, 2017‍

Limmud FSU New York is a dynamic and pluralistic Jewish festival of culture, creativity and learning featuring more than 80 inspiring speakers and 120 panels, workshops and discussions on subjects ranging from art, to Jewish culture and tradition, history, politics, academics, business and lifestyles.

Sponsored by the Koret Foundation and Blavatnik Family Foundation, Limmud FSU New York explored a broad array of topics including Israel in the era of Trump, Jewish views of astrology and superstition, raising children in a diverse world, demystifying Shabbat, and religious Zionism. Top Israeli singer Ninet Tayeb gave a special tribute performance to Leonard Cohen at the conference’s gala event on Saturday night.

“Aside from his remarkable musical achievements, Leonard was very much connected to his Jewish identity and roots, making him a role model for Jews across the world,” said Limmud FSU founder Chaim Chesler.

"This inspiring gathering contributes to the incredible vitality of Russian-Jewish life in New York," said Limmud FSU co-founder Sandy Cahn.

At the event, Limmud FSU honored Claims Conference Executive Vice President Greg Schneider and Holocaust Survivor Roman Kent, who is president of the Jewish Foundation for the Righteous, with the Elie Wiesel Award for their outstanding work helping Holocaust survivors and their rescuers.