Jews of Florida: Centuries of Stories

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Florida International University is hosting a virtual lecture. This 60-minute presentation is based on Dr. Marcia Jo Zerivitz’s seminal book, the first comprehensive history of the Jews of Florida from colonial times to the present -a sweeping tapestry of voices spanning centuries. Despite not being officially allowed to live in Florida until 1763, Jewish immigrants escaping expulsions and exclusions were among the earliest settlers. They have been integral to every area of Florida’s growth, from tilling the land and developing early communities to boosting tourism and ultimately pushing mankind into space. Attendees will meet contemporary Floridian Jews-names that are recognized globally-and pioneers who impacted history beginning 257 years ago and possibly in 16th century Florida.

Dr. Zerivitz is an author and the founding executive director for the Jewish Museum of Florida-FIU. She has been a trailblazer in the American and Floridian Jewish communities serving national, state, and local organization. Her focus for the past 40 years has been organizing Florida Jewish communities to collect, document, and preserve their history. She initiated the legislation for both Florida Jewish History Month each January and Jewish American Heritage Month each May to increase awareness of the contributions of Jews to the quality of life for all.

This event is free to attend, but registration is required to receive the link to the online viewing. Free Zoom training is available if needed. Please call 305-919-5900 for details. This program is funded in part through a Florida Humanities Greater Good: Humanities in Academia Grant in partnership with Florida International University.