Thursday, Jan. 8
Free film series
‘The Last Musician of Auschwitz’ — documentary telling the story of cellist and Auschwitz survivor Anita Lasker-Wallfisch and other musicians who created and performed music in the concentration camps, exploring music as resistance, survival, and witness during the Holocaust; includes post-screening talkback with the Nathan and Esther Pelz Holocaust Education Resource Center. Jan. 8, 7–8:30 p.m. Harry & Rose Samson Jewish Community Center. More info: jewishmuseummilwaukee.org/events
Sunday, Jan. 11
Violins of Hope
Remember with Reverence is a collaborative program presented by Wauwatosa Avenue United Methodist Church and Own Your Judaism, featuring music by local artists, stories of the violins, testimony from a Holocaust survivor, and an interactive talk-back with Moishe Steigmann, The Mindful Rabbi, as part of Violins of Hope: Wisconsin presented by Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra. Jan. 11, 2 p.m. Wauwatosa Avenue United Methodist Church. More info about this free event is at violinsofhopewisconsin.org
Thursday, Jan. 15
Maxwell Street Klezmer Concert
Performance by the Maxwell Street Klezmer Band celebrating the joyous spirit of Jewish klezmer music with high-energy rhythms, soulful melodies, and contemporary flair under the direction of Alex Koffman, featuring music that honors tradition while engaging new generations. Jan. 15, 7–8:15 p.m. Rubenstein Pavilion at Ovation Communities. More info: jewishmuseummilwaukee.org/events
Sunday, Jan. 18
Zikaron Basalon – Dugo Edition
An intimate evening honoring Holocaust survivor David “Dugo” Leitner (1930–2023), marking the anniversary of his survival of a Death March from Auschwitz through remembrance, personal stories, community connection, and a light falafel tasting. Hosted by MJF’s Israel Center in partnership with the Nathan and Esther Pelz Holocaust Education Resource Center (HERC). Sessions are offered at 10 a.m. with Steven Russek, 2 p.m. with Marty Thau, and 6:30 p.m. with Tamar Chaet (session intended for NextGen MKE, ages 22–45). Free. Jan. 18, multiple times. North Shore of Milwaukee (location provided three days before event). Click Here to register
Wednesday, Jan. 21
Immigration Justice Journey
Three-week series exploring immigration through a Jewish lens, examining U.S.–Mexico border realities, immigration policy, and Jewish texts, with the final session featuring an immigration attorney from Chicago. Jan. 21, Jan. 28, and Feb. 4, 6:30–7:30 p.m. Congregation Shalom. Register at cong-shalom.org
Thursday, Jan. 22
Cream City Beit Midrash Kickoff Event
As Shabbat Shirah, the “Shabbat of Song,” approaches alongside reflection on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., this program explores the sacred power of voice through learning, dialogue, and inspiration with Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz and Moishe Steigmann, The Mindful Rabbi; marks the official launch of the Cream City Beit Midrash, a partnership between Valley Beit Midrash and Own Your Judaism. Jan. 22, 5:30–7:30 p.m. Milwaukee Jewish Day School. More info: Valleybeitmidrash.org
Sunday, Jan. 25
Early Childhood Education
Fun-filled morning for families with children ages 0–4 featuring music with Miss Wendy, arts and crafts, a story, snacks, and more, with activities facilitated by Monica Arnstein. Jan. 25, 10 a.m. Congregation Shalom. RSVP by January 21 at Cong-shalom.org/form/ECE0125. Contact: brian@cong-shalom.org; 414-352-9288.
Black – Jewish Dialogue Session
Through open, challenging dialogues and direct, face-to-face interactions, we aim to dismantle barriers and cultivate new connections. By reigniting the historic alliance forged during the Civil Rights Movement, we seek to enhance our collective impact and promote greater equity across the nation. This program launches the Milwaukee cohort, a collaborative series of events between Rekindle Fellowship and Own Your Judaism. Jan. 25, 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Arts @ Large. More info about this event and the application to participate is at rekindlefellowship.org/milwaukee.
Thursday, Feb. 5
NextGen Social Gathering
Evening of connection and camaraderie for young adults to unwind with a drink, enjoy lively conversation, and build new friendships, welcoming both newcomers and longtime locals. Feb. 5, 5:30–7 p.m. Vendetta Coffee Bar. RSVP at milwaukeejewish.org/nextgenevents


