In her other life, Judy often gets to accompany a group of Jewish Confirmation students on a trip to New York City.

Many Jewish immigrants to the United States began their American lives in New York city, and there is much to see there.

 In this, the week between Canada Day and American Independence Day, Judy passes on her recommendation for things to do if you are travelling to New York City.

 For a good part of our history in North America, Jewish immigrants passed through Ellis Island on their way to a fresh start in the United States. A ferry runs between Liberty Island – home of the Statue of Liberty – and Ellis Island, which houses the Ellis Island National Immigration Museum. See what your American cousins’ ancestors experienced on when they arrived. https://www.statueofliberty.org/ellis-island/

 Once cleared for immigration, many Jews – and indeed, many waves of immigrants before and after them – landed on the Lower East Side of New York City. Today, the Tenement Museum is home to recreations of the homes and experiences of a number of families, arriving at different times and making their lives in the building, It’s an immersive experience, and Judy’s favourite place to visit.

https://www.tenement.org/

 The Jewish Museum is an Art museum dedicated to “the intersection of Jewish art and culture”. It has a large collection of art, artifacts, and Judaica. https://thejewishmuseum.org/Exhibitions

Lastly, the magnificent Central Synagogue boasts a storied history going back more than 200 years, a breathtaking sanctuary, and worship that needs to be experienced.  You can worship there, or simply visit during the week. https://www.centralsynagogue.org/