What makes a celebration memorable? This is the question we’re delving into for SAVE THE DATE: Stories of Celebration, a gathering of individuals from various backgrounds who have found ways to maintain and reimagine traditions.

On December 8, join us to hear from several inspiring speakers who navigate questions and personal stories, from how to acknowledge Passover and Hanukkah as an interfaith person, to simply exploring one’s Jewish identity within a much smaller community. Guests will also be encouraged to share their own stories.

Admission is free, with complimentary treats provided by local vendors Bernie Beigne and Montreal Kosher Bakery. A cashless (card-only) bar will also be available with beverages from Le Seltzer. We thank the Jewish Public Library and Spark: Montréal for their partnership in this program. This event is funded by the Passport to Jewish Life Funders Group: The Sylvan Adams Family Foundation, Azrieli Foundation, Claudine & Stephen Bronfman Family Foundation, The Morris & Rosalind Goodman Family Foundation, Alvin Segal Family Foundation, and The Jewish Community Foundation of Montreal.

PLEASE NOTE: Doors will open at 6:00pm and storytelling will begin at 6:30pm. This event will take place on the ground level of the building. Unfortunately, the upper levels are not accessible for visitors with limited mobility.

ABOUT OUR SPEAKERS:

Rosie Long Decter

Rosie is a writer and musician based in Montreal. Her work has appeared in Maisonneuve, Herizons, THIS, Vallum, Reader's Digest and more. She performs regularly with her band Bodywash.

J-Rob

J-Rob is a Black Ashkenazi Jewish multidisciplinary artist and activist from Montreal with roots from St. Vincent & Germany. He is currently releasing music under his alternative hip-hop solo act "Half White Full Black" and is part of a 11 person alternative pop band with his friends called Saint Zenon. He is the President of the executive board for the revitalized effort to reclaim and rebuild the NCC, a prominent Black community centre that once operated in Little Burgundy and is the co-director of 4 The Culture MTL, a bi-monthly music event that promotes local independent musicians.

Hannah Grover

Hannah is a lifelong multimedia artist with special focuses on independent filmmaking, acting, and community creation. Currently, she is developing a web series about positive representation for queer women and non-binary folks in her home city of Montreal. She proudly holds a Bachelor of Arts Honours degree in English from the University of Regina with a concentration in creative writing. She also recently completed a Masters in Media Studies at Concordia University and has experience as a writing instructor, student journalist, actress in film, theatre, and television, and, most recently, a member of the Museum of Jewish Montreal’s fellowship, front-of-house, and tour staff.