This post is part of a series written in recognition of Jewish Disability Awareness and Inclusion Month by members of our community with a disability describing ways they feel included in our community.
The Jewish culture is so enthralling that you don’t have to be religious to be involved in Jewish life. My Judaism varied throughout the years of temple hopping and family gatherings. I felt most included in Nashuva with its enriching upbeat environment that makes people want to go back the first Friday of every month. I feel most included in the Jewish community when I teach others. In the Jewish culture we are taught tikkun olam, and I work to complete this task one day at a time. I love learning about my own culture and traditions within Judaism. Questioning, teaching and learning about what makes us Jewish intrigues me.
During the summer of 2007, I wanted a change from the normal summer routine. My cousin Sarah and I were accepted to be counselors in a Jewish summer camp program called Gesher at Camp Alonim. We had a chance to teach the children what we knew about our own culture. Every week, with the Camp Spirit, we would come up with a theme to get the kids excited to participate in camp activities. Even silly things like cheers and songs helped the children feel part of the group. As we taught them new songs and watched them learn new dances, it was exciting when their eyes would light up with joy in what they were learning.
Going on Birthright in Winter 2011-2012 made me more aware of my Jewish roots. Birthright taught me a lot about myself and that I am able to be independent and not rely on my parents. I was able to meet new friends and experience my love for travel. Learning the history of my people in the Holy Land and seeing the rich cultural vibe fascinated me. It is an experience that I will never forget, and now I have friends that will last a lifetime.
I was lucky enough not just to go on Birthright, but to also go to London. In summer 2013, my university gave me the opportunity to be involved in a summer abroad program. Through this program, I learned about one of my favorite countries—England. I had the opportunity to teach my classmates about a place in London and I chose to discuss the Jewish Museum. My teacher liked my presentation so much that we were able to visit and see this museum together! Sharing my culture with my classmates gave me a sense of importance and made me feel closer to the group. When they asked me questions about my Judaism, I broke down barriers with pride. It was amazing to be sharing something that I hold so close to my heart.
Lastly, I was most honored to work at The Jewish Federation as an intern through the Ruderman Family Internship program from June through October 2014. I enjoyed it so much that I wish it didn’t end. I learned how to interact in an office setting, dress accordingly for a work environment, work with people on a deadline, and work with a co-intern. The co-intern (Hannah) and I became friends within the short amount of time we worked together. But most of all I just enjoyed working. I felt empowered and capable in this office setting, learning new skills and helping complete the task at hand. Everyone had a smile on their face and a friendly attitude. The environment was welcoming and I felt accepted as part of the Federation family. One of the many tasks we did was data entry of surveys given to teens about their relationship to Judaism. I found this intriguing because their responses were varied, yet similar to what I might have written as a teenager. This was my first job experience and will help me in the future. I will always cherish this unique experience.
Alana Bubar is a senior at Marymount California University, majoring in Arts and Media. She was born with a genetic heart defect, which includes learning challenges and health issues. She works though her limitations and looks forward to continuing her path within the Jewish community and art world.
Jewish Federation Los Angeles believes that everyone in our community should have the opportunity to experience and celebrate our shared values, history and traditions. Making Jewish life more accessible for all is one of our top priorities, which is why we are part of a national effort to raise awareness about members of the Jewish community with disabilities. Go to www.JewishLA.org/Inclusion for more information.
