JIMENA
Cultural Outreach

JIMENA’s Cultural Outreach Programming, warmly invites people to experience first hand the vibrant traditions and customs of Mizrahi and Sephardi Jews. Through cultural programming events such as Mimouna Celebrations, Mizrahi Shabbaton, Cooking Classes, Henna Ceremonies, and Mizrahi Music series, participants walk away with a fresh perspective and a different approach on what it means to be a Jew. Most of our Cultural Outreach Programming is done in the Bay Area and is a key tool for increasing public awareness to Mizrahi and Sephardi culture. It is through this kind of programming that individual’s gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the rich culture of Middle Eastern and North African Jewry. Accessible to all – yet reached by few, JIMENA is here to share the rich traditions and history of Mizrahi and Sephardi Jews with Jews and non-Jews in North America.

The bulk of our Cultural Outreach Programming is aimed at teenagers and young adults on college campuses, high schools and community organizations in the Bay Area. We have found that our vibrant culture and history has a very special appeal to younger generations and we see this as a tool in keeping young Jews connected to their Jewish identity. More over, there is a yearning amongst young Jews to identify with multi-culturalism and ethnic diversity. Our programming invites them to explore the multi-cultural aspects of the Jewish people.