Seasonal & Holidays

Tree of Life Victim Honored With New Anti-Semitism Initiative

Joyce Fienberg's daughter-in-law is spearheading the new effort.

Tree of Life victim Joyce Fienberg.
Tree of Life victim Joyce Fienberg. (Photo via Markowitz Communications.)

PITTSBURGH, PA - A Tree of Life synagogue shooting victim’s daughter-in-law has started a grassroots effort to combat anti-semitism. Dubbed 2 for Seder, the initiative encourages Jewish families to welcome non-Jews into their home for Passover to experience the holiday.

Marnie Fienberg said that opening the Seder to newcomers can dispel myths that breed misunderstanding and can spark biased attitudes. It’s an attempt to push back against anti-semitic acts such as the October Tree of Life massacre that left 11 people dead - including Joyce Fienberg, Marnie Fienberg’s mother-in-law.

“Joyce always invited friends, neighbors, co-workers and international students to our family’s holiday meals.,” Marnie Fienberg said. “Her generosity and openness meant new people were regularly a dynamic part of our family’s holiday meals. With 2 for Seder we’re following her example.”
Host families are encouraged to sign up to show they are participating and receive a 2 for Seder Kit at www.2forseder.org. This first event is being held across the United States and Canada. The goal of 2 for Seder 2019 is to have 1,000 participating Seders, with at least 2,000 new people experiencing the Jewish holiday.

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