around the uft

We are family

Apr 24, 2008 8:16 PM

More than 100 people of all ages and faiths came together for the UFT Jewish Heritage Committee’s first Family Purim Celebration on March 16. Children made Purim masks using markers, feathers and other colorful materials and played carnival games such as ring toss and beanbag throw. Adults joined the kids on stage for a karaoke session and there was plenty of cheer to go around. David Kazansky, chair of the committee, retold the story of Purim, about a thwarted attempt in ancient Persia to commit a holocaust against Jews. The former-day “Hitler” was named Haman. Traditionally, during a narrative about Purim, whenever Haman’s name is mentioned it is drowned out by everyone present shouting and shaking noisemakers called “groggers.” The groggers were very much in action at this Purim celebration. The event was supported by numerous sponsors, including Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz, City Councilwoman Maria del Carmen Arroyo, and the New York State/AFT Latino Caucus. Arroyo told the gathering that she planned to visit Israel soon. Proceeds from the celebration will be donated to the Jewish Labor Committee’s Holocaust and Jewish Resistance Teachers’ Program. Refreshments were provided by the Bronx UFT Borough Office. “It was thrilling to see so many people attend this first-time event,” said Kazansky. “We look forward to next year and again seeing Jewish and non-Jewish children in imaginative costumes all sitting together listening to the inspiring story of Purim.”