Washington, DC has always been a place of diversity. Ever since the city’s founding in 1790, thousands of different people have lived, worked, and died alongside each other. And while Washingtonians have not always lived harmoniously with each other, they have contributed to create a community. Regardless of race, religion, creed, or political belief, Washington DC remains a cosmopolitan city, a quintessential reflection of American diversity.

Many groups have contributed to building community and culture in Washington DC, including Jewish Americans. Their contributions are as rich and varied as Jewishness itself, reflecting the centrality of Jewish narratives in the nation’s capital. They worked on Capitol Hill in the halls of Congress, fighting for justice. They founded community organizations, helping build the ties that bind Washingtonians. They established businesses, pursuing the American dream. They worked in the arts and humanities, helping individuals explore the depths of human expression.

These are just some of the Jewish narratives preserved forever at Historic Congressional Cemetery. Dozens of Jews are interred at Congressional and their stories remain as a testament to the dedication of Jewish Americans to live and thrive in DC. With the global rise of Anti-Semitism, it is important for all individuals to contemplate the influence of Jewish Americans on Washington history.

In honor of Jewish American Heritage Month, we invite you to discover Jewish American history and heritage on May 19, 2024, 1:00 PM-2:30PM for a special event. Historic Congressional Cemetery is pleased to welcome Jonathan Edelman from the Lilian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum as a Speaker Series guest. Following his keynote remarks, he will join with docent Charles Walton to lead a thematic tour of Jewish American gravesites and monuments. Come along as they walk the grounds and retell the stories of the Jewish Americans laid to rest here, including Thomas Lantos, Ruth Rappaport, and Martin Sloane.

Tickets are only $5 and all proceeds go to benefitting our non-profit mission of historical preservation and education. Space is limited so be sure to reserve your spot today! Keynote remarks will take place either outside or inside the Chapel, weather depending and the walking tour will take place on the grounds. The tour is approximately 45 minutes in length. Please come prepared with comfortable clothing and shoes, as the tours often stray from the main paths.

The event is rain or shine. Smoking is prohibited and dogs are not allowed to attend the event unless they are a service animal.

Our Speaker:

Jonathan Edelman

Jonathan Edelman was born and raised in Kansas City, moving to D.C. in 2016 to work with the curatorial team at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. He has a Masters in Museum Studies from The George Washington University and a Bachelors degree in Cultural Studies & Communications from Clark University.

Jonathan also serves on the board of the Edlavitch DC JCC and is a member of Adas Israel Synagogue.

To learn more about the Cemetery Speaker Series, check out our main page HERE.

To learn more about our partner, the Capital Jewish Museum, please click HERE.

You may reserve your spot below.