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Jewish Social Work (JMW)

Origin

Joods Maatschappelijk Werk, or Jewish Social Work, is a Dutch Jewish social services organization that was founded in 1946 to support Jewish survivors of the Holocaust. The organization initially provided emergency aid and resettlement assistance to Jews who had been displaced by the war. Over time, JMW expanded its services to include social work, care for the elderly, and counseling services for the Jewish community in the Netherlands. Today, JMW continues to provide a range of services to support Jewish identity, culture, and safety in the Netherlands, including initiatives to combat antisemitism and promote interfaith dialogue.

Initiatives

  1. Education and Awareness: JMW organizes educational programs and events to raise awareness about antisemitism and educate the public about the dangers of prejudice and discrimination.
    • School Programs: JMW offers educational programs for schools that teach students about the Holocaust, Jewish history, and antisemitism. The programs are designed to engage students in interactive learning experiences that help them understand the impact of the Holocaust and the dangers of prejudice and discrimination.
    • Workshops: JMW organizes workshops on topics such as the history of antisemitism, the role of propaganda in promoting hatred, and strategies for combating hate speech. The workshops are designed to provide participants with practical tools and strategies for responding to antisemitism and other forms of prejudice.
    • Lectures: JMW invites speakers to give lectures on topics related to antisemitism and Jewish history. The lectures are open to the public and provide an opportunity for people to learn more about the impact of antisemitism on Jewish communities and society as a whole.
    • Exhibitions: JMW organizes exhibitions that showcase Jewish history and culture. The exhibitions provide visitors with an opportunity to learn more about Jewish traditions and the contributions of Jews to society.
    • Online Resources: JMW offers a range of online resources, including educational videos, articles, and other materials, that provide information about Jewish history, the Holocaust, and antisemitism. These resources are designed to be accessible to people of all ages and backgrounds.
  2. Commemoration: JMW organizes commemorative events to honor the victims of the Holocaust and raise awareness about the atrocities committed against Jews during World War II. The organization participates in the annual National Remembrance Day on May 4th and organizes Holocaust Remembrance Day events in January.
  3. Advocacy: JMW works with government officials and other organizations to advocate for policies and programs that support Jewish safety and security. The organization has called for increased funding for security measures at Jewish institutions and has worked with law enforcement to address incidents of antisemitism and hate crime.
  4. Support for Victims: JMW provides support to Jewish individuals and families who have been affected by antisemitism. The organization offers counseling services and assistance with reporting incidents to law enforcement. JMW also advocates on behalf of victims and works to ensure that their rights are protected.
  5. Interfaith Dialogue: JMW promotes interfaith dialogue and understanding as a means of combating antisemitism and other forms of prejudice. The organization participates in various interfaith initiatives and works with other religious communities to promote tolerance and mutual respect.