This Wednesday, we invite readers in the NYC area to gather for an evening of learning, discussion, and reflection led by Raffi Magarik, who is a Jewish Currents contributing writer and a professor at University of Illinois Chicago.

The Uses and Abuses of Grief

On Wednesday, October 25th at 7pm ET, in lower Manhattan:

What role does grieving have in response to Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7th, and to Israel’s ongoing assault on Gaza? How best to grieve Jewish lives lost, when such grieving can be utilized to justify Israeli war crimes? What constructive role might grieving have in our politics, beyond mere catharsis?

We will read biblical, rabbinic, and modern Jewish texts, exploring rich, positive accounts of the uses of grieving, while also exploring the dangers. If we succeed, our learning together will also give us a chance to mourn together, on our terms. The learning will be in English and accessible regardless of educational background.

This event is for subscribers only, with two guests for each subscriber. (Subscribe today for as little as $2/month.) Snacks will be served.

In the coming weeks, we hope to have more events in various cities across the US, as well as virtually. We hope you’ll join us.