Supporting U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism

To help advance the White House’s recently released U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism, JIMENA curated this collection of lesson plans and educational units on antisemitism and Sephardi and Mizrahi Jews. JIMENA was privileged to participate in White House listening sessions when they were designing this historic strategy and we commend them for Strategic Goal 1.1 which includes the following language:

"In addition to learning about the horrors of the Holocaust, students should learn about global histories of antisemitism. This should include histories of antisemitism experienced by Sephardic and Mizrahi Jews—who trace their ancestry to Spain, the Middle East, and North Africa—and their stories of exclusion, persecution, and expulsion. Students should also learn about the history of antisemitism in the United States as well as contemporary manifestations of antisemitism. Educators need readily available quality resources to enable such education."

JIMENA’s 2023 Report.

As a long-standing leader in educating the public on the histories of Jews from Middle Eastern and North African countries, JIMENA looks forward to continuing our work to educate students and adults on the rich histories of Sephardic and Mizrahi Jews from North Africa and the Middle East.

About the Lessons

The Sephardic and Mizrahi Jewish communities encompass vibrant and diverse aspects of Jewish history and heritage. Educators can effectively utilize the JIMENA collection to teach students about the unique experiences, challenges, and contributions of Sephardic and Mizrahi Jews. This collection offers valuable insights into different historical periods and events that are relevant to the historical and contemporary experiences of these communities. By placing these events in their respective historical and social contexts, educators can enhance students’ understanding of the history, heritage, challenges, and contributions of Sephardic and Mizrahi Jews. These lessons can be combined into a year-long unit on Sephardic and Mizrahi Jews.

Lesson Plans

Around the Middle Eastern Jewish World

Students will examine a world map to locate global Jewish communities today, with a particular focus on the Middle East and North Africa. They will then “travel” through four countries in the region to explore how Sephardi and Mizrahi Jews developed as distinct groups and to identify key cultural and ethnic markers that shape their identities.

Celebrating Middle Eastern Jewish Clothing

Students will explore the balance between preserving distinct Jewish identities and integrating into surrounding cultures, recognizing how Jewish communities around the world were shaped by the societies in which they lived. They will become familiar with Mizrahi customs, holidays, and traditional clothing practices, and will articulate the cultural and spiritual values that inform these traditions.

Henna Party

Students will explore the Moroccan and Yemenite traditions of the pre-wedding henna ceremony, learning about its key rituals and symbolic elements. They will examine the core values expressed through the ceremony—celebration, health, and prosperity—and consider how these themes shape communal life-cycle events.

Open Your Hand! Hamsa

Students will explore the symbolic meaning of the hamsa, compare its use in Muslim and Jewish traditions, and draw connections through Jewish texts between the symbol of the hand and the value of tzedakah (giving to those in need). They will then design their own hamsa and reflect on meaningful and effective ways to give tzedakah.

Middle Eastern and North African Jewish Cuisine

Students will examine how and why Middle Eastern Jewish foods became staples in Israel and identify the cultural, historical, and social factors that shape food choices and customs. They will then prepare and share dishes characteristic of Middle Eastern Jewish communities as a hands-on exploration of this culinary heritage.

All Inclusive Heritage Museum

Students will research a family heirloom, exploring its origins, how it came into their family, and what it represents to them personally. Through this process, they will deepen their connection to family history and reflect on their role in preserving and carrying forward inherited traditions.

Need context?

Visit our glossary for explanations of key concepts and cultural references.

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