South Orange Event: Jewish, Muslim Women To Break Bread And Fight Hate

SOUTH ORANGE, NJ — The Livingston-based NCJW/Essex will sponsor an event in South Orange titled "Lunch and Learn – Creating a Movement of Muslim and Jewish Women Changing the World" – in partnership with the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom, a national organization focused on building relationships between Muslim and Jewish women.

The program will take place on Thursday, May 4, from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Congregation Beth El in South Orange, organizers stated.

The event will feature a panel of speakers from the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom (SOSS) including Sheryl Olitzky, co-founder and Executive Director, and SOSS members Nausheena Bhayat, Cyndy Wyatt and Miniimah Bilal. Rabbi Jesse Olitzky of Congregation Beth El will serve as moderator.

The panel will discuss the founding of the Sisterhood, its goals and evolution into a nationwide organization, and how it has changed lives, organizers said.

According to a NCJW/Essex news release:

"In recent months, Muslims and Jews have banded together to fight against hate and prejudice. Interfaith coalitions are increasing and groups like the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom are strengthening their efforts to promote cooperation instead of hatred. Across the country Jews and Muslims are meeting to discuss issues and solutions to the problems facing both groups. This program will address the need to build bridges to fight hate and the importance of a strong partnership between Muslim and Jewish women."

Creating a Movement of Muslim and Jewish Women Changing the World will be held at Congregation Beth El, 222 Irvington Avenue, South Orange. Pre-registration is required. The fee is $20 and includes a buffet lunch. To register, call (973) 740-0588 or visit www.ncjwessex.org.

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