What's New In the Sisterhood
Bosnia and Herzegovina
By Saira |
Building Bridges – Bosnia and Herzegovina 2025 July 10th – July 17th, 2025 Travel to Bosnia and Herzegovina for our 2025 Building Bridges trip! We’ll explore the architecture and landscape of Sarajevo, and dive deeply into the unique history of this beautiful city, highlighting centuries of coexistence among Muslim, Jewish, and Christian communities. We’ll also: • Explore the Jewish Museum […]
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Spain Recap
By Saira |
Reflections on Our Journey: Building Bridges in Andalusia Our journey through Andalusia was nothing short of transformative. From the moment we gathered in Seville, a group of Muslim and Jewish women, we embarked on more than just a tour of Spain’s most beautiful cities-we set out on a journey to deepen our connections, challenge our […]
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Why and When We Officially Began Israel/Palestine Dialogue
By Saira |
When we met over 10 years ago, Sheryl and I were confident that we –two women from different backgrounds–who committed to learn about each other’s lives and faiths and engage in good works could change the world. We centered the Sisterhood as an organization that created spaces where Muslim and Jewish women can get to […]
Read More Virtual Vigil for Israel-Palestine
By Saira |
We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended our Virtual Vigil for Israel-Palestine on April 7th. Your presence and participation made the event truly meaningful. During the vigil, we were inspired by the powerful stories and insights shared by Yael Braudo-Bahat from Women Wage Peace and Marwa Hammad from Women of the […]
Read More Sisterhood on the Hill
By Saira |
Regarding the presentation of the Sisterhood statement: Several Muslim and Jewish sisters in the Washington, D.C. metro area participated in the Ceasefire Now: Grassroots Advocacy Days. This grassroots effort was spearheaded by more than forty organizations. On April 17, Sisterhood members met with the offices of Senator Van Hollen and Representative Trone, both of Maryland. […]
Read More Dialogue Facilitation in California
By Saira |
On Sunday afternoon February 4 about 100 people gathered at 12 tables for the first in person Celebration of Abraham event since 2019. The Celebration of Abraham is an interfaith group in Yolo County, California that has members from the Christian, Jewish and Muslim faiths as well as people from other faiths and those who […]
Read More Long Island’s Tzedakah/Sadaqa Day Project
By Saira |
For the fifth consecutive year, the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom participated in Hannah’s Project. Developed by the organization Rock and Wrap it Up, Hannah’s Project is a program to help at-risk teens and women maintain their dignity by providing access to feminine hygiene products such as soap, shampoo, tampons and pads, all items not covered […]
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Eman El-Badawi
By Saira |
Eman El Badawi holds many roles – wife, mother, farmer, volunteer, and most recently, Mayor. Local politics is not something Eman actively sought out, yet through a mixture of life choices and circumstances, she campaigned for and was elected the first Muslim, Indian-Egyptian mayor of Cranbury, NJ. Not only was she the first Muslim woman […]
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Dialogue Facilitation Training Program
By Saira |
For over a decade, Muslim and Jewish women from around the world have turned to the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom to learn to explore their own and others’ religious identities while forming lasting, interfaith friendships within an environment of respect and trust. Women come to us wishing to bridge divides, but they often don’t have […]
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Listening and Sharing Sessions 2024
By Saira |
The Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom is providing complimentary listening and sharing sessions to support our membership. These sessions will provide opportunities for our members to come together to reflect, share, and support one another. The sessions are limited in space to ensure everyone has the opportunity to contribute to the conversation, if they so choose. The space is […]
Read More 2023 Conference Summary
By Saira |
What an unforgettable weekend! On November 18 and 19, 2023, the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom hosted its 10th annual conference at Rutgers University in New Jersey. Conference weekend began with a thought-provoking documentary screening of “Stranger at the Gate” followed by an engaging panel discussion with the director and audience. The conference brought together participants […]
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Spain 2024
By Saira |
Building Bridges – Spain 2024 Seeptember 19th – September 26th, 2024 Travel with us to southern Spain for the next “Building Bridges” trip! We’ll explore the architecture and landscape of Andalusía, also known as al-Andalus, and dive deeply into the unique seven-century history of religious coexistence between Muslims, Jews, and Christians. We’ll learn of the […]
Read More Tanenbaum Peace Made Possible Gala
By Saira |
The Tanenbaum Gala was held in New York City on Tuesday, October 17, 2023. The gala’s theme was Peace Made Possible; it was focused on recognizing individuals and companies who have dedicated time and effort to building and establishing peace. The Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom and its co-founders, Atiya Aftab and Sheryl Olitzky were acknowledged […]
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National Days of Sisterhood Unity
By Saira |
National Days of Sisterhood Unity Listening Sessions October 29 ~ November 5 ~ November 12 2:00-3:30 p.m. ET Please join us online on October 29, November 5, and November 12 from 2:00-3:30 p.m. ET, so we can connect with one another through listening and sharing sessions. These listening sessions will provide opportunities for our members […]
Read More Letter from Dr. Lama Rimawi, MD
By Saira |
Dr. Lama Rimawi, is a US based pediatrician and a member of the Sisterhood’s Board of Trustees. Here, she shares her heartfelt plea with the Sisterhood. Dear Sisters, I believe now is the time to stand up. Now is the time to call our sisters into action. Not the regular actions that we have […]
Read More Lil’ Amina and the Adventure of Grief
By Saira |
In this emotional children’s book, Lil’ Amina grapples with the complex emotion of grief after losing her mother. With help from Mrs. Moo and guidance from her grandfather, she learns to navigate and express her feelings, while also exploring how grief is expressed in their Islamic faith. The book, suitable for ages 5 and up, […]
Read More Milad-al-Nabi and Sukkot
By Saira |
What are these holidays? Milad-al-Nabi or simply Mawlid or Milad, is an Islamic celebration that commemorates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. Observed on the 12th day of Rabi’ al-Awwal in the Islamic lunar calendar, Milad is a significant religious and cultural event for many Muslims around the world. During Milad, Muslims engage in […]
Read More Pacem in Terris Award
By Saira |
Atiya Aftab and Sheryl Olitzky, co-founders of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom, received the prestigious Pacem in Terris award this month. Gail Karp and Lisa Killinger, who co-founded a local chapter of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom, received the One Among Us Justice Award; the event took place at St. Ambrose University and […]
Read More Sisterhood Members Attend National Women’s Political Caucus Biennial Convention
By Saira |
On August 11, two Sisterhood representatives from Richmond, Board member Lisa Halberstadt and co-leader Aliya Farooq spoke on a Stranger/Sister panel at the NWPC’s Biennial Convention. Lisa and Aliya were joined by Virginia State Senator Ghazala Hashmi, Donna Kent (President of NWPC), and Virginia State Delegate Eileen Filler-Corn. Members of the Sisterhood’s two Richmond chapters attended […]
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Eid at the Vice-President’s Residence
By Saira |
By Tahija Vikalo, Executive Director On July 11, 2023, I had the great honor of being invited to and attending an Eid Celebration hosted by Vice President Kamala Harris and her husband, Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff, at the Vice-Presidential Residence. It was a historic gathering for me personally and for Muslim communities in this country. […]
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Western Nassau Chapter Family Picnic
By Saira |
After a flurry of concern about the weather, the sun shone and a welcome breeze fluttered over Grant Park in Hewlett for the Western Nassau County Sisterhood chapter’s family picnic on Monday, July 10th. Chapter sisters, three Long Island regional guests, spouses, children, and grandchildren gathered to enjoy the summer and each other’s company. Everyone […]
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Arlington/McLean Chapter Takes a Field Trip!
By Saira |
On the evening of June 21st, 2023, the Arlington/McLean Chapter took a fieldtrip to the Adas Israel Community Mikvah in Washington DC. What is a Mikvah? A mikvah is a Jewish ritual bath that requires “living waters” from rain. There is evidence that Jewish communities from antiquity have mikvaot (plural). The ritual of immersion is […]
Read More A Great Memory For A Great Cause
By Saira |
Purchase Here Purchase your Limited Edition print of Elad Vazana and Aziz Abu Sarah, leaders from our Building Bridges trip to Morocco, today! Purchase Here
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Rekindling Connections in Kansas City
By Saira |
Sisters in the Kansas City area met at the beginning of May to reconnect. Members from the three KC chapters, as well as community members, gathered at Regional Coordinator and member of the Board Sheila Sonnenschein’s home for tea and desserts. It had been a long time since sisters had seen each other in-person, and it was […]
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Sister Spotlight – Noora Kuran
By Saira |
When Noora Kuran was in 8th grade in Watchung Hills, New Jersey, she and her brothers couldn’t attend Eid prayer because they had tests scheduled in school and were afraid that if they missed class, they would fall behind. It was at that moment that Noora decided to petition the school to allow students to […]
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“Restoring Community”
By Saira |
“Restoring Community” Faith can bring people together across America. Hear about the interfaith friendships that form the foundation of The Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom’s mission to create a better world on @The-Pew-Charitable-Trusts’ “After the Fact” podcast. https://pew.org/3VhXsyI
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Morocco Trip Reflections
By Saira |
In thinking of all we learned and listened to during our trip, it is amazing that the Jewish history in Morocco covers almost 3,000 years! That’s 3 millennia! – a time to develop culture, history, and roots. Of course, there were good and bad years (as there were for other populations that make up Morocco), yet Jews were […]
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Let Us Be Peace Builders Together
By Saira |
Let Us Be Peace Builders Together Dear Sisters, The Sisterhood is dedicated to building trusting Muslim-Jewish relationships between women, to standing up for each other, engaging in social justice action, and working to end acts of hate against any human being. For the first few years, with so much work we needed to do […]
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Sacramento Region Participates in Build for Unity Program
By Saira |
In February, members of the Sacramento region of the Sisterhood took part in the annual Build for Unity program with Habitat for Humanity. They joined together with volunteers from various churches, community organizations, and Habitat constructor supervisors to work on the Cornerstone development. Beginning in early 2016, various faith groups in Sacramento came together to […]
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Arlington/Alexandria Service Project
By Saira |
On January 16, members of the Arlington/Alexandria I Sisterhood chapter joined forces with the Agudas Achim Congregation and the Alfred Street Baptist Church to pack over 20,100 meals for food insecure individuals and families in Alexandria, Virginia. They worked with The Outreach Program to assemble nutritionally balanced meal packets that were picked up by ALIVE!, a […]
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Western Nassau Service Project
By Saira |
The Western Nassau chapter of the Sisterhood recently completed its annual Tzedakah/Sadaqa Day project. During the months of November and December, they solicited donations of toiletries and feminine hygiene products from synagogues, mosques, and friends to benefit Momma’s House, which provides housing and services to young mothers and Domestic Harmony, which serves those impacted by […]
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A Message from our Executive Director
By Saira |
Tahija Vikalo, Executive Director, and her beautiful daughters Hilal and Tasneem As some of you know, last year was personally a very difficult year for me. Returning to work full-time at the beginning of the year was daunting but at the same time, a relief. I was inspired once again by all the amazing women […]
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Peacebuilder Reflections – Holding the Pain
By Saira |
Rabbi Amy Eilberg is the first woman ordained as a Conservative rabbi. She serves as a spiritual director, peace and justice educator, and teacher of Mussar (a classical Jewish system of spiritual development). My recent trip to Palestine and Israel with a group of 20 justice-minded rabbis began with a tour of the remains of the Palestinian […]
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Building Bridges – Morocco 2023
By Saira |
BUILDING BRIDGES – MOROCCO 2023 February 20 – 28, 2023 Morocco offers a fascinating opportunity to explore multiple dimensions of religion and culture in the Middle East/North Africa region. With distinctive Muslim practice and belief and being the site of Jewish communities for roughly 2,500 years, Morocco represents a nexus of Jewish, Arab, Berber, African, […]
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Voter Registration Project Opportunity
By Saira |
The Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom is partnering with The Civics Center to host voter drives to register high school students to vote nationwide. In most states, individuals have a full year or more to register to vote before their 18th birthday. In general, these students do not register, but once they do, they vote in […]
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Hanging In When We Would Rather Shut Down
By Saira |
Rabbi Amy Eilberg is the first woman ordained as a Conservative rabbi. She serves as a spiritual director, peace and justice educator, and teacher of Mussar (a classical Jewish system of spiritual development). When I first began my journey of learning to listen to Palestinians and to their perspectives on Israel and Palestine, one thing that I […]
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Sister Spotlight – Eunice & Safeta
By Saira |
“From our very first conversation, it was the start of a friendship.” Eunice and Safeta met through the Virtual Coffee Connection in the early months of the pandemic. With the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, the Sisterhood devised an easy and fun way for women to combat isolation and remain in touch- the Virtual Coffee Connection. Safeta Pejcinovic, […]
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Regional Roundup- Metro DC Picnic
By Saira |
Regional Roundup The latest news from our regional members! Our Metro DC region recently held a first-ever regional picnic to celebrate all things spring and Sisterhood! Members from multiple chapters gathered in a park and shared food, music, and henna. The newly formed Northern Virginia teen chapter also attended, which gave them an opportunity to […]
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Sister Spotlight- Anne Kjemtrup
By Saira |
Congratulations to Anne Kjemtrup, who recently received a 2022 Lifetime Achievement Award from the City of Davis, California. Anne is a member of the Sisterhood’s Board of Trustees, Sacramento Regional Coordinator, and founding member of the Sacramento chapters. For her exemplary work building positive relations in the community and also for working towards equality, intercultural […]
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Sister Spotlight- Hayat Ford
By Saira |
We invite our members to share a bit about themselves, their lives, and their connection to the Sisterhood in an occasional series. If you wish to tell your story for a future spotlight, please email [email protected]. On May 6, 2022, long-time Sacramento sister Hayat Ford passed away from ALS. Hayat was one of Sacramento’s founding members in 2016. […]
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Biweekly Briefing May 25, 2022
By Saira |
Biweekly Briefing May 25, 2022 Welcome to the Sisterhood’s Biweekly Newsletter! Dear Friends, Our hearts break for the 10 individuals who never returned from grocery shopping last week in Buffalo, NY, and the 19 students and 2 teachers who never returned home from school yesterday in Uvalde, TX. Gun violence is preventable, which makes its […]
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Biweekly Briefing May 11, 2022
By Saira |
Biweekly Briefing May 11, 2022 Welcome to the Sisterhood’s Biweekly Newsletter! Planning for our 9th annual conference is underway, but we want to hear from you, specifically about HOW and WHERE you’d like to attend this year’s conference. Please fill out this brief survey to help us better shape our plans! We Want to Visit […]
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Biweekly Briefing April 27, 2022
By Saira |
Biweekly Briefing April 27, 2022 Welcome to the Sisterhood’s Biweekly Newsletter! Planning for our 9th annual conference is underway, but we want to hear from you, specifically about HOW and WHERE you’d like to attend this year’s conference. Please fill out this brief survey to help us better shape our plans! Upcoming Events May 9: […]
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Biweekly Briefing April 13, 2022
By Erica Neubauer |
Biweekly Briefing April 13, 2022 Welcome to the Sisterhood’s Biweekly Newsletter! Wishing Our Community a Blessed and Peaceful Ramadan and Passover! Dear Friends, We are in the middle of a truly special month. With the convergence of Ramadan, Easter and Passover, this month presents us with family time, self-reflection, and beautiful rituals. We wish all our Muslim Sisters and […]
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Sister Spotlight – Rebecca Weintraub
By Saira |
Rebecca Weintraub was born and raised in New York City’s Lenox Hill neighborhood. From a very young age, she found herself seeking her place within the Jewish community. She attended everything from nursery school through K-12 after school programs through a Reform synagogue and served as the first President of her Temple’s youth group, a […]
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Biweekly Briefing: Stranger/Sister Event TODAY, Refugee Ramadan Project THIS WEEK
By [email protected] |
Welcome to the Sisterhood’s Biweekly Newsletter! Sister Spotlight We are implementing an occasional series inviting our members to share a bit about themselves, their lives, and their connection to the Sisterhood. If you wish to tell your story for a future spotlight, please email [email protected]. Rebecca Weintraub was born and raised in New York City’s […]
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Etiquette
By [email protected] |
Etiquette Below are tips for general etiquette when entering a Muslim or Jewish home: Footwear: Remove your shoes when you enter a Muslim home. Most Muslims remove their shoes before entering the home. There is usually a special place reserved just outside the door or in the entryway for shoes. It is fine to enter the home […]
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Holidays
By [email protected] |
Holidays Please note that many holidays begin the evening before their indicated date. Scroll down for descriptions of holidays in alphabetical order. Al-Hijra/Muharram – New YearAl-Hijra, the Islamic New Year, is celebrated on the first day of Muharram, the month in which Muhammad emigrated from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE (known as the Hijra). […]
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Rise and Respond: Guide to Responding to Anti-Muslim and Anti-Jewish Bigotry
By [email protected] |
Rise & Respond: Guide to Responding to Islamophobia and Anti-Semitism Sisterhood Rise and Respond Guide.2 Ed, January 2020 Appendix 1: Pyramid of White Supremacy Appendix 2: Planning a Vigil Appendix 2a: Template for Vigil Flyer Appendix 2b: Vigil Liturgy Appendix 3: Letter to Editor Appendix 4: Press Release Appendix 5: Letter for Press Conference Appendix […]
Read More Biweekly Briefing- February 16, 2022
By Saira |
Biweekly Briefing: Sisters Spreading Love and a Baby Goat!
Read More Biweekly Briefing- January 12, 2022
By Saira |
Biweekly Briefing: Director's Letter, Virtual Israel-Palestine Trip
Read More Statement about Congressman Scott Perry’s Inflammatory Rhetoric Against Afghan Refugees
By Saira |
The Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom (SOSS) is grateful for overwhelming Congressional support of H.R. 3985 – Averting Loss of Life and Injury by Expediting SIVs (ALLIES) Act of 2021. The ALLIES Act increases the number of immigration visas for Afghan citizens who protected Americans soldiers serving in Afghanistan. We thank the 407 members of the […]
Read More Statement on Ending Government-Sanctioned Oppression and Violence Against Muslims in India
By Saira |
As a grassroots organization of Muslim and Jewish women committed to ending acts of hatred and marginalization of Jews and Muslims, the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom (SOSS) condemns in the strongest terms the violence and oppression being committed against Muslims across India by the current government, controlled by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and many […]
Read More The Sisterhood Recognizes the 20th Anniversary of 9/11
By Saira |
The Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom, a national organization of Muslim and Jewish women devoted to fighting all forms of hate and promoting social justice, solemnly remembers the 20th anniversary of the attack on the United States on September 11, 2001. In a morning of madness, thousands of lives were destroyed and families were forever changed. We […]
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Summer 2021 Newsletter ~ Welcome to Our New Executive Director
By Saira |
Executive Director’s Message It has been only two months since I joined the Sisterhood staff team as the new Executive Director and so much has happened in this short period of time. From the very beginning of my engagement with the Sisterhood five years ago as a chapter member, chapter co-leader, and most recently, as […]
Read More National Teen Leadership Board
By Saira |
In the spring of 2021, the Sisterhood convened its inaugural cohort of the National Teen Leadership Board. During the 2021-2022 school year, this select group of teens will collaborate with peer leaders from across the country to design and implement programs where fellow Jewish and Muslim girls can come together, learn about one another, and […]
Read More Initial Agenda for dialogue on Israel and Palestine
By Saira |
outline IP initial conversation.workshop.docx
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New Executive Director of Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom
By Saira |
TAHIJA VIKALO NAMED EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF SISTERHOOD OF SALAAM SHALOM Survivor of Siege of Sarajevo brings personal and professional experience to position May 26, 2021 – The Board of Trustees of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom is pleased to announce that Tahija Vikalo, of Bala Cynwyd, PA, has been named executive director of the organization. The […]
Read More Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom Israel Palestine Second Statement
By Saira |
We, the leadership of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom, acknowledge that this is a very difficult time for so many of us. As our newsfeeds fill with disturbing and frightening stories of fear, death, violence, and destruction in Israel and Palestine, it can be natural to retreat to our own corners, and feel protective and […]
Read More Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom Statement on Antisemitism
By Saira |
Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom Statement on Antisemitism The most recent rise in antisemitic attacks across the nation is deeply troubling. We cannot remain silent when we witness our Jewish sisters suffering on account of being Jewish, and we will never tire of our commitment to decry every form of hatred, especially those formed in […]
Read More Introduction to Conversation on Israel-Palestine
By Saira |
We acknowledge that continued violence in Israel and Palestine is a personal and very difficult topic for many of us. One of the most important values of the Sisterhood is standing with our sisters. We have an opportunity amidst the pain, to shine a light on a different path and live out this value. We […]
Read More Sisterhood Statement On Sheikh Jarrah, Jerusalem
By Saira |
May 11, 2021 – In response to increasing acts of injustice and violence in Jerusalem, the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom stands behind our commitment to inspire Jewish and Muslim women and teen girls to support and promote nonviolent means of achieving peace and human and civil rights for all Palestinians and Israelis. We condemn the actions of […]
Read More Virtual Benefit Celebrating Sheryl Olitzky
By Saira |
Click Here to Register Click Here for Silent Auction
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Winter 2021 Newsletter~ Transitions and New Opportunities
By Saira |
President’s Message The first months of 2021 have brought change to our national landscape and to the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom. After being the voice of the Sisterhood for more than ten years, co-founder Sheryl Olitzky will be stepping down as executive director as of March 1. The Sisterhood will remain in good hands under the […]
Read More Zena Kaufman
By Saira |
Zena is currently the President of ZGK Quality Consulting which provides quality & compliance consulting to pharmaceutical and medical device firms worldwide. This is an outgrowth of her career in Quality at major pharmaceutical firms such as Pfizer, Abbott, Searle, and Hospira where she was a Corporate Officer and Senior Vice President of Global Quality. […]
Read More Mehnaz Afridi
By Saira |
Dr. Afridi is an Associate Professor of Religious studies and Director of the Holocaust, Genocide, and Interfaith Education Center at Manhattan College. She teaches courses on Islam, the Holocaust, Genocide, comparative religion, and Feminism. Her articles have appeared in books such as: “A Muslim’s Response to Frank H. Littel” in Legacy of an Impassioned Plea Franklin H. […]
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Fall 2020 Newsletter~ Reflecting Back and Looking Ahead
By Saira |
Director’s Note 2020 has been a year of trials and triumphs, of unprecedented challenges and connections. You, the members of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom, have been a source of inspiration, support, and friendship to your fellow sisters. We’ve heard countless stories of sisters coming through in times of need to share laughter and to lighten […]
Read More Suggested Initial Virtual Meeting Themes for Sharing Personal Stories
By Saira |
INTRODUCING OURSELVES Objective: To learn about family customs through sharing the origins of each woman’s name To begin to understand the influence of our different cultural backgrounds To explain how storytelling is key to building empathy and understanding Introduction: Our families and cultural background play a large role in the way we define ourselves, as […]
Read More Community Members
By Saira |
The Sisterhood welcomes anyone who identifies as a Muslim or Jewish woman to become a community member. You will create meaningful relationships, and, along with thousands of other women across the U.S., Canada, and beyond, stand united against hate. We are an inclusive organization and recognize that embracing our diversity is what makes our community unique. […]
Read More Sisterhood Statement On Rep Marjorie Taylor Greene
By Saira |
The Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom calls on the Republican leadership in Congress to take immediate action to remove Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga) from committee assignments and to be expelled from Congress. The Representative’s hate targeting Muslims, Jews, students who are victims of gun violence, elected officials, and her spread of conspiracy theories is a […]
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Virtual Building Bridges 2020: Civil Rights and Racial Justice Journey
By Saira |
Virtual Building Bridges Trip 2020: Civil Rights & Racial Justice Journey During the summer of 2020, dozens of women joined us for a series of conversations in courage. Guided by Dr. Todd Allen, Vice President for Diversity Affairs and Professor at Messiah College, women examined key issues in the civilrights movement, including voter suppression, police […]
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Teens Present: Embracing Black Women’s Voices in Faith Communities
By Saira |
The Sisterhood teens recently welcomed an esteemed group of panelists for a conversation on Black women’s experiences in Muslim and Jewish communities. We were grateful to be joined by Sisterhood former teen co-leader, Asiyah Ball, former jGirls Magazine editor, Makeda Zabot-Hall, Be’chol Lashon Director of Community Engagement, Lindsey Newman, and Assistant Professor at Rhode Island College, […]
Read More Teens Explore How Identity Influences Their Relationship to the World
By Saira |
Since late spring, the teens of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom have participated in monthly programming designed to develop leadership skills and allow girls to connect with other teen girls from across the country. In October, Leadership Coach and Sisterhood Co-Leader, Rachel Baldi facilitated an exploration into identity, the components that comprise it, and how […]
Read More Interview with Founding Memphis Teen Co-leaders
By Saira |
Salaam & Shalom to the Sisters in Memphis! The co-leaders (Orli Katz, Sarah Unowsky, and Damla Onder), and I, Yagmur Onder, just recently started our chapter in Memphis, Tennessee. Our reasons for the creation of this chapter range between the desire to create stronger friendships with those in our cultural communities and having a space […]
Read More Statement Regarding Genocidal Practices Imposed on Uyghur Women
By Saira |
The Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom condemns the Chinese government’s most recent statement regarding its genocidal practices imposed on Uyghur women. In its recent tweet, the Chinese Embassy in the US shamelessly claimed that the mass forced abortion and sterilization of Uyghur women resulted in their “emancipation” and “promoted gender equality” since they stopped being “baby-making […]
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Raise your Voice Teen and Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom Lab
By Saira |
There were many special moments during our 7th Annual Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom conference. By far, the highlight of the day was this music video featuring the youth of the Sisterhood. (There are currently 14 teen chapters among the nearly 200 chapters of the organization.) These young women—our future and our hope– wrote the music […]
Read More Fern Finkel
By Saira |
Fern Finkel served as the founding CEO and Executive Director of the International Psychogeriatric Association (IPA). With more than 25 years of dedication, this international, geriatric, mental health, non-profit organization became her passion, as she worked with leaders and professionals in the field from around the world. Fern’s administrative stewardship guided the organization and […]
Read More Melanie Mages-Canale
By Saira |
In her second act, Melanie Mages-Canale turned to social activism. Spurred by the divisiveness that gripped the nation after the 2016 presidential election, in January 2017 Melanie took the lead in starting the Sacramento region’s first chapter of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom. It quickly became apparent that Melanie had tapped into a need in […]
Read More Sheila Sonnenschein
By Saira |
Sheila Sonnenschein has been working to build relationships between people of different faiths and cultures since 2002. She is a past chair and vice-chair of the Greater Kansas City Interfaith Council. In addition to planning a variety of multi-faith programs for the Council and beyond, she served as an advisor and board member of the […]
Read More Protected: 7th Annual Gathering Recordings
By Saira |
There is no excerpt because this is a protected post.
Read More Anne Kjemtrup
By Saira |
Dr. Anne Kjemtrup comes to the Sisterhoood of Salaam-Shalom board with a long history of board service and community action in the wider Sacramento, California area. A resident of Davis, California, she converted to Islam almost 30 years ago. In her faith journey, she remains consistently impressed with the humanity, value for life, environment, intellectualism, […]
Read More Seyma Aslan
By Saira |
Dr. Seyma Aslan leads a team of scientists for innovation in product formulation at L’Oréal Research & Innovation Laboratories and responsible for a Global Innovation Platform which focuses on North America, South America & Africa Zone. She received her PhD, Masters of Science, Masters of Philosophy, and Postdoctoral Training from Yale University and a bachelor of science […]
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Jerusalem by Atiya Aftab
By Saira |
Jerusalem When we met over 10 years ago, Sheryl and I were confident that we –two women from different backgrounds–who committed to learn about each other’s lives and faiths and engage in good works could change the world. We centered the Sisterhood as an organization that created spaces where Muslim and Jewish women can get […]
Read More Judy Mannaberg-Goldman
By Saira |
Judy Mannaberg-Goldman was born and raised in Johannesburg, South Africa where her parents emigrated post WWII. After high school she attended university at Institut International de Glion in Switzerland and then moved to Canada; Montreal and Toronto, working as an administrator for Loews Corporation, Hilton International and McDonald’s. In 1980 Judy immigrated to the United […]
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Vote in person on Nov. 4th!
By Saira |
To find your polling place, go to: usa.gov/election-day#item-37327
Read More Statement on Forced Hysterectomies
By Saira |
The Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom strongly condemns the reported practice of forced hysterectomies on women held in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody. This is systemic racism and xenophobia targeting immigrant and other vulnerable communities. No human being should ever have to undergo any procedure that impacts their body without their consent. Subjecting women […]
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New Board Annoucement!
By Saira |
Join us in welcoming nine new board members to the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom Board of Trustees. These women represent a broad demographic profile and come from throughout the United States. We are thrilled to welcome a new leadership team; Executive Committee President~ Roberta Elliott; Vice President~ Nazli Chaudhry; Secretary~ Judy Mannaberg-Goldman; Treasurer~ Tahija Vikalo […]
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Summer 2020 Newsletter~ Racial Justice and Voter Engagement Initiatives, Parents Circle Event, and Digital Annual Conference!
By Saira |
Director’s Note The past months have been challenging, but the Sisterhood continues to offer new opportunities for connection and engagement. Join us as we strengthen relationships, pursue justice, and stomp out hate. Now, more than ever, our connections to one another are our strength. Please consider a donation to help co-create the future of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom. As […]
Read More Kiffaya Haj
By Saira |
My name is Kiffaya Haj, and I’ve been living in lovely Santa Barbara, CA for the last 25 years. I was born and raised in Israel, but in 1995 I made two decisions which would shape the rest of my life: I got married, and moved to Santa Barbara to live with my husband, who […]
Read More Statement on Israel’s annexation plan of the West Bank
By Saira |
Statement from the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom on Israel’s annexation plan of the West Bank The Sisterhood of Salaam of Shalom, an organization of 8,000 Muslim and Jewish women and teenage girls across the U.S. and Canada, opposes Israel’s annexation plan of the West Bank, endorsed by the U.S. administration. The plan is not a path to peace, […]
Read More Uyghur Statement and Fact Sheet
By Saira |
Statement from the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom to End the Cultural Genocide of Uyghur and Turkic Muslim Populations by the Chinese Government The Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom is an international organization comprised of over 170 grassroots chapters of Muslim and Jewish women who are committed to ending acts of anti- Jewish and anti-Muslim sentiment. As […]
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Spring 2020 Newsletter- Response to COVID-19, New Initiatives, Upcoming Events, and Teen Videos!
By Saira |
Director’s Note The first months of 2020 have been challenging, beginning with hate attacks targeting Jews, followed by the arrival of a global pandemic. The Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom has responded to each of these challenges, bringing members together to provide a safe place for support, spiritual growth, and solidarity. Together, we have raised spirits and continue […]
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Building Bridges Trip 2020: Tuscon, Arizona Border Trip
By Saira |
Building bridges trip 2020: Tuscon, Arizona Border Trip The 2020 Building Bridges Trip grew directly out of the 2019 Building Bridges Trip to Germany & Poland. While still in Europe, and learning firsthand the results of unchecked hatred during the Holocaust, the participants vowed to organize a trip to the U.S./Mexican border. Our mission was […]
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New Jersey Teens Create Content for Observing Passover and Ramadan During COVID-19
By Saira |
Aneesa Saha and Naomi Meininger, high school seniors in New Jersey, are the co-leaders of our Northern Valley teen Sisterhood chapter. Throughout the 2019-2020 school year, they’ve dedicated their efforts to helping classmates and their communities better understand Islam and Judaism. Using explorations of kosher and halal cuisine as a jumping off point, the girls […]
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The Sisterhood is bringing the Spiritual and Emotional Connection to our Sisters in an Isolated World
By Saira |
Dear Friends, We are writing to let you know that we at the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom have been monitoring the impact of COVID-19 across the United States and Canada and are here to offer support. We are committed to upholding the well-being of our community, especially the health and safety of those facing hate […]
Read More Passover 2020: Resources for Virtual Seder
By Saira |
Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom Passover Haggadah Guidelines for Conducting a Virtual Seder
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Winter 2020 Newsletter- Unity Vigils, 2020 Annual Gathering, and Greater DC Regional Training!
By Saira |
Director’s Note The Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom entered 2020 full of hope and energy, renewing our commitment to one another and to rising and responding to hate. Throughout 2020, sisters will be engaged in advocacy to change the tide of hate that surrounds us. The New Year’s confetti in Times Square had yet to be swept away and, […]
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Responding to Biased or Offensive Comments by: Judith Kaye Training and Consulting
By Saira |
Responding to Biased or Offensive Comments by: Judith Kaye Training and Consulting
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Fall/Winter 2019 Newsletter: Annual Gathering, Building Bridges 2020, Teen Update, and Awards!
By Saira |
Director’s Note We are still riding the wave of hope and energy resonating from our 6th annual gathering, which took place November 1-3. We spent the weekend with an incredible group of women and teenage girls and returned home inspired by your enthusiasm, generosity, and support of one another. Read on for a recap of […]
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Spring 2019: Rise & Respond Training, Spring Celebrations, Annual Conference and New Staff!
By Saira |
Director’s Note It has been a busy first few months of 2019, with regional trainings, preparation for our Building Bridges trip, and increased resources and opportunities for learning and connecting! We are dismayed and disturbed by recent attacks on our houses of worship. These acts of cowardice go against everything we stand for and are devastating […]
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Our Love has No Labels
By Saira |
Sara Speer Selber and Munira Bangee brought together by a natural disaster despite their religious differences. Sara stumbled upon the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom on Facebook and she knew she had to bring it to Houston. The Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom brought the chapter members together to go from strangers, to friends, to sisters to […]
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Winter 2019 Newsletter: Sisterhood Growth, Day of Service, Teen Chapters and Earth Day Plans!
By Saira |
Director’s Note You made 2018 an exciting year for the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom! Thanks to you, we expanded to over 170 chapters in 32 states, Canada, and Washington, DC, and we have many more on the way in both new and existing locations! We also launched our initiative for teen girls, welcoming chapters for teens in […]
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Pittsburgh Rally of Peace Speech: SOSS Teen Chapter Leaders
By Saira |
Simone: I never thought that I would have to watch my eight-year old sister crying in our synagogue because she didn’t understand why all the adults around her were breaking down in tears, wailing over the lives that were lost, and the sense of safety that will never return. Yesterday my sister told me and […]
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Salaam & Shalom to the Sisters in Memphis! October 2018
By Saira |
The co-leaders (Orli Katz, Sarah Unowsky, and Damla Onder), and I, Yagmur Onder, just recently started our chapter in Memphis, Tennessee. Our reasons for the creation of this chapter range between the desire to create stronger friendships with those in our cultural communities and having a space with others of our religious cultures to discuss […]
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Unexpected Sisterhood in Machu Picchu, Peru
By Saira |
Of all the places in the world, the encounter of two Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom sisters at the UNESCO site of Machu Picchu, Peru! It was the last day of our four day trip to Pueblo Machu Picchu. On this last day, my brother, Viquar, and I revisited the Machu Picchu site, to take one last […]
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September Newsletter: Conference, Voter Registration, and Standing Up to Hate
By Saira |
Director’s Note The changing season has brought new challenges individually and collectively, but at the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom, we are committed to Raising Our Voices and standing against hate. Whether it’s the many chapters that have organized voter registration drives, resounding enthusiasm for our upcoming conference, or the development of educational materials dedicated to […]
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Spiritual Activism and Community Service: Series 2
By Saira |
Spiritual Activism and Community Service: Series 2 Module 1: Introduction: Turning Vision to Action Module 2: Developing Your Focus Watch Video Written Resource Watch Video Written Resource Module 3: Using a Work Plan Watch Video Written Resources Watch Video Written Resources Written Resources: Workplan Template (Excel file via Google Sheets) Workplan Template (Word file via Google Docs) […]
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Pittsburgh Chapter: September 2018
By Saira |
Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom Pittsburgh Chapter Aniya Akhtar and Simone Rothstein As young Muslim and Jewish girls, religion never really came up within our friendship. As we got older, however, and started to consider our identity more, we began discussing our cultures, traditions, and ideologies with each other. It became apparent to us that we […]
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Getting Past Hate: How Two Women of Different Faiths Are Starting a Movement
By Saira |
Next Tribe‘s Eileen Stukane covers the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom in a July 3 article. She writes: Amidst the crudités and tasty Vidalia onion dip that hostess Fern Jurgrau-Schiffman had set out, Adla Karim placed baklava she had just made in her kitchen. Other women in this living-room meeting of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom had tasted […]
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June Newsletter: Ramadan, Voter Registration Drive, and Conference Registration
By Saira |
Director’s Note All of us at the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom are outraged by yesterday’s Supreme Court decision upholding the discriminatory policy blocking immigrants and visitors to the United States from six Muslim-majority nations. This Muslim ban is is yet another heartbreaking development in this country. Coupled with horrendous actions at US borders, this […]
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A Fateful Meeting — or Divine Intervention? By Cynthia Wyatt and Dorene Alama
By Saira |
Dorene: It was Day Six of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® Building Bridges Civil Rights Tour. I had joined the tour late on Wednesday two days earlier, and as I entered the bus that was taking us to Jummah services at Masjid Al-Muminun in Memphis, there were several seatmates already engrossed in deep conversation. Twice […]
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May Newsletter: Conference Registration, New Video Resources and Civil Rights Trip
By Saira |
Director’s Note April has been full of activity across North America. Sisters joined together on our recent Building Bridges trip to meet with civil rights leaders in the American South, and we’ve launched registration for our 2018 national conference! We have also released the next video, “Listening with Compassion,”in our resource library. As always, thank you […]
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Three Generations of Women Creating Peace
By Saira |
We are honored that three generations of the Fishman-Belkin family are a part of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom®! Grandmother Janet Belkin is a member of the Tucson, Arizona chapter. Kira Belkin and her daughters Talia and Ruth live in central New Jersey. Kira is a member and co-leader of a Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® chapter […]
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March Newsletter: Our Terrific Teens, Chapter Round-Up, and New Resources
By Saira |
Director’s Note March has been a busy month here at the Sisterhood of Salaam Salaam. Our members have been featured in the news from Washington State to Virginia to New York and beyond, and most recently, our teen chapters were featured in national and international outlets! March has also seen a rising up of the […]
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February Newsletter: Leadership Trainings and Amazing Chapter Work
By Saira |
Director’s Note It has been a busy month here at the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom®! Nearly 200 women attended leadership trainings in Manhattan and Metro DC, new chapters have been launched in places as diverse as South Florida, Palo Alto, and Chicago, and nearly 100 new women have requested to join chapters across the country. […]
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Engaging in Difficult Conversations: Series 1
By Saira |
Engaging in Difficult Conversations: Series 1 Module 1: Engaging in Difficult Conversations Watch Video Written Resources Watch Video Written Resources Written Resources: Our Commitments to Each Other Module 2: Setting Group Agreements Watch Video Written Resources Watch Video Written Resources Written Resources: Developing Your Own Group Agreements Suggested Group Agreements for Respectful Meetings Addressing Conflict […]
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January Newsletter: Welcome to our inaugural issue!
By Saira |
January 2018 Welcome to the inaugural 2018 issue of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® newsletter! We look forward to updating you with SOSS news, upcoming events, and chapter goings-on on a regular basis. We will feature chapters and individuals partaking in extraordinary events as well as highlight activities that will allow you to participate locally, […]
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The Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® on Megyn Kelly TODAY
By Saira |
On December 19, Megyn Kelly featured the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® on her show for a feature, “Women Promote Understanding Between Jews & Muslims.” Founders Atiya Aftab and Sheryl Olitzky joined Megyn in the studio. Please watch and share!
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We Reaffirm Our Commitment To Be There For One Another
By Saira |
A Statement by Board Chair Atiya Aftab, Board President Donna Cephas, and Executive Director Sheryl Olitzky We are reaching out to you today in the midst of emotions running high over actions that have taken place over the past few weeks for many in the Muslim and Jewish communities. The Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® remains […]
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Rising Up Against Hate: The 4th Annual SOSS Conference by Heba Macksoud
By Saira |
When people ask me to describe the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® annual conference, I often have so much to say, that I don’t even know where to start. This year was the 4th year of the conference and over 630 women attended — a tremendous jump from the 100 who attended in 2014. I typically […]
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Rising Up Against Hate: The 4th Annual SOSS Conference by Heba Macksoud
By Saira |
When people ask me to describe the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® annual conference, I often have so much to say, that I don’t even know where to start. This year was the 4th year of the conference and over 630 women attended — a tremendous jump from the 100 who attended in 2014. I typically […]
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Breaking Religious Stereotypes to Foster Understanding: A High School Student’s Perspective
By Saira |
Kaitlyn Dundorf, a freshman at Hillsborough High School in New Jersey, visited a local chapter of the Sisterhood of the Salaam Shalom as part of an assignment for her Exploring Journalism class. The assignment required her to write a feature story, highlighting a local event or organization. She was interested to find out more about […]
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It’s About Personal Connections of Trust: Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® Highlighted
By Saira |
This article by S. D’I and Erasmus originally appeared on The Economist on May 22, 2017. Here’s an excerpt: Inter-faith dialogue: Muslims, Jews and women in America However toxic the climate, some Muslims and Jews try harder to get along As President Donald Trump engages in his own, idiosyncratic kind of religious and cultural diplomacy […]
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In Azerbaijan, Lessons on Peace and Harmony
By Saira |
This commentary originally appeared on Philly.com. By Marcia Bronstein While the Republic of Azerbaijan had never been on my bucket list, I eagerly embraced the recent chance to experience it as a participant in a Muslim/Jewish women’s bridge-building trip helmed by the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® (SOSS). Azerbaijan’s unique and successful model of peaceful coexistence […]
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Everything Depends Upon Building and Cultivating Relationships of Trust-Rabbi Nancy Fuchs Kreimer
By Saira |
In 1974, just as I was graduating college, I attended a conference in New York City entitled, “Auschwitz: Beginning of a New Era?” I was moved by passionate Christians who were repentant for the role their religion had played in genocide and were determined to reconstruct their theology, their liturgies, their textbooks. I found them […]
Read More Press Contact Form
By Saira |
If you are not writing with a media-related request, please fill out our general contact form. This form is only for members of the press. Thank you!
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Get Involved with the Sisterhood
By Saira |
Please contact us so we can help you get involved. And please make a donation to help us combat hate.
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New York Times & .Mic Cover Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom®
By Saira |
On December 5, the New York Times published an article about our historic and powerful December 4 Muslim Jewish Women Leadership Conference, “Both Feeling Threatened, American Muslims and Jews Join Hands.” Here’s an excerpt: Jolted into action by a wave of hate crimes that followed the election victory of Donald J. Trump, American Muslims and […]
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#Stand Up Against Hate; Atiya Aftab
By Saira |
What is it going to take to awaken us to see our commonalities and not be divided by fear of the other? I am still reeling from the elections. The bigoted, xenophobic, misogynist statements uttered by our presumed president elect were at the least disturbing. Now I understand how millions of people around the world live […]
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We Stand Up for Each Other: Atiya Aftab, Co-founder and Board Chair
By Saira |
Proud of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® and Atiya Aftab, Co-founder and Board Chair, for their support of and participation in the November 1 “Stand Up for the Other” Interfaith Program at Rutgers Douglas Student Center. Atiya was a presenter and shared the following words: Good evening, salaam, shalom and peace be with you all! About […]
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Join Hundreds of Women and Attend the Muslim Jewish Women’s Leadership Conference
By Saira |
Register Today while seats are still available! Several hundred women will gather at Drew University on December 4 for the 2016 Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® Leadership Conference! Conference is sold out “I attended the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® Muslim Jewish Women’s Leadership Conference together with my 16-year-old daughter. I knew it would be a transformative experience for her, but […]
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Support the Our Choice, Not Yours Campaign
By Saira |
When one of us is hurt, we are all hurt. We are proud to announce the solidarity mission of the Our Choice, Not Yours campaign. This campaign, a partnership between the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom®, Safina Fellowship and altMuslimah, will convene an international solidarity mission consisting of a group of interfaith women coming together and traveling […]
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Seeing God in One Another’s Eyes by Chelsea Garbell
By Saira |
This article originally appeared in the magazine Tablet. In the Jewish quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem there sits a small jewelry shop. Unknown to most Israelis, the beaten silver engraved pieces it produces have become a ubiquitous symbol of an American Jew who has spent time in Israel. Known simply as a “Hadaya,” […]
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Announcing the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® Third Annual Muslim Jewish Women’s Leadership Conference
By Saira |
Register Today-Early bird discount ends August 31! Several hundred women will gather at Drew University on December 4 for the 2016 Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® Leadership Conference! REGISTER NOW “I attended the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® Muslim Jewish Women’s Leadership Conference together with my 16-year-old daughter. I knew it would be a transformative experience for her, but I didn’t realize […]
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What to Wear: Reflections on Choice
By Saira |
It was a Sunday night and I was preparing for the upcoming week by hitting Facebook in my pajamas and there, amongst the selfies and memes, was a cartoon that caught my eye. It depicted two women staring at each other. One woman was in full abaya and niqaab – an outfit that covered every […]
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The Spirit of Charity in Ramadan
By Saira |
Ramadan Kareem! I am grateful to be alive to cherish, celebrate and commemorate another month of Ramadan. Ramadan is the ninth month of the lunar Hijri calendar, commonly called the Muslim or Islamic calendar and is a month where Muslims strive to be in a heightened state of God-consciousness. Clearly when one is not eating […]
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From Generation to Generation
By Saira |
Each chapter of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® is unique in their composition. Yet, all the chapters achieve the same building bridges results. Each chapter takes on the commitment of women waging peace. The Westchester/Hudson Valley, New York Chapter has a very unique composition. In this chapter there are two moms, one Jewish and one […]
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We Hosted The First Regional Event Representing Eight Chapters
By Saira |
You asked and we responded! After each annual conference, we receive several requests for us to organize regional meetings. We were finally able to host a regional meeting last Thursday in New Jersey. It was a wonderful opportunity for the women from eight New Jersey chapters to meet each other. It was also an opportunity […]
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Presentation For the Ahmadiyya Muslim Women’s Association Conference
By Saira |
I am so honored to have been asked to speak to you from a Jewish perspective on the topic of “ How Women of Faith can Contribute to Building Peaceful Societies.” There are many ways that Jews practice our religion, but the basis of our tradition stands on three things- on Torah (which is our […]
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Learning From the Past, Living For the Future
By Saira |
I just returned from a trip to the Balkans. This Building Bridges Journey brought Muslim and Jewish women from the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® to Bosnia and Albania. The trip had two goals. First, we went to witness the results of the attempted genocide against the Bosniaks (Bosnian Muslims) in the early 1990s. Next we […]
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Largest Gathering of Muslim & Jewish Women for Peace
By Saira |
Our December 2015 Muslim Jewish Women’s Leadership Conference was an unbelievable success. Over 350 women came together for two days in Princeton, New Jersey for workshops, panels, and relationship building — the largest-ever gathering of Jewish and Muslim women coming together for peace. Women came from across the United States and around the world, including from […]
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A Real Blessing: Baking For Peace
By Saira |
Baking at Sarah House in Santa Barbara September 20, 2015 “When women put their minds to peace and healing, great good can be accomplished.” — Kathy Rayburn, a member of the Santa Barbara Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® Chapter On Sunday, September 20, our Sisterhood volunteered to bake for the residents and staff of Sarah House. Sarah House […]
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Sisterhood Interview Featured on US Arab Radio
By Saira |
In late July, the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® was featured on US Arab Radio as part of their program highlighting women peacebuilders. The program featured Sheryl Olitzky, Symi Rom-Rymer, and Ambereen Shaffie and helps to educate others on the change in attitudes and behaviors that the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® has on women, their family and their […]
Read More Thoughts on Elections: Insights from Dr. Amaney Jamal
By Saira |
Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® member Dr. Amaney Jamal shares her insight in this article by Julie Poucher Harbin of Religion News Service, “Are Americans Ready For a Muslim President? Here’s What a New Gallup Poll Suggests.” (RNS) A recently released Gallup poll found “tidal shifts” over the past 60 years in Americans’ willingness to support a […]
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The 26th Night of Ramadan
By Saira |
Last night was such a powerful and beautiful night that I just want a part of it to be etched somewhere forever. I think that all of us who came to the iftar felt the same way. There was something special, something powerful, and something so deep about it subhanAllah. Last night I invited my […]
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Responding to EEOC v. Abercrombie: The Ruling and Its Implications for Religious Freedom
By Saira |
The US Supreme Court’s recent decision in EEOC v. Abercrombie & Fitch —supporting a Muslim woman’s civil right to observe hijab at work and prohibiting employers from considering a job applicant’s religion or belief practices in hiring decisions—reinforces America’s commitment to religious freedom. Additionally, one might draw a number of broader insights. First, the case […]
Read More Because We Are Sisters
By Saira |
I am blessed in many ways, and chief among my blessings has been my family. I have a brother who fulfills the ideal definition of brother, but I do not have any sisters and I have always felt a little bit cheated. A built-in best friend who gets giddy with you and tells you what not to wear. Someone […]
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International Religious Freedom and Women’s Experiences on the Extremist Battlefield
By Saira |
From parts of Europe to Nigeria to Myanmar to Iraq, women and girls often experience religious freedom violations in ways that are similar to as well as distinct from male co-religionists. Still, while protecting international religious freedom and advancing women’s rights globally represent core US foreign policy objectives, respectively, their inter-relationship remains a generally under-explored area of inquiry meriting attention. This […]
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The Re-Education of the Muslim Next Door
By Saira |
In some respects I am a quintessential American soccer mom — I actually have two sons who play both recreational and travel soccer. My family eats burgers and watermelon on July 4th. We live in a suburban New Jersey neighborhood with picket fences and bikes abandoned in front yards at dinner time. My family binge […]
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Engaged in the holy
By Saira |
A year and a half ago, Sheryl Olitzky asked me to serve on the Executive Committee of the newly forming organization, the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom®. I was happy to be able to say “Yes!” and my life has been enriched in lovely and unexpected ways since. My co-chair, Tasneem Shamim, and I started our […]
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All Lives Matter
By Saira |
We are disturbed and saddened to witness more senseless violence – the execution style killing of three Muslims in North Carolina. #MuslimLivesMatter. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of these victims. We pray that God Almighty blesses their souls and admit them to heaven. We cannot be silent in the face of violence. […]
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We will continue to stand up for each other and to support each other
By Saira |
The Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® is deeply saddened and sickened by the unfolding news in Paris over the past few days. This most recent tragedy makes us confront, yet again, how helpless many of us feel in the face of this seemingly relentless violence. When terrorists attack any one of us—as Journalists, as Policemen and […]
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Recruiting for New Chapters
By Saira |
The Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® is delighted to announce that we are currently recruiting members for new chapters in these cities: Cleveland, Ohio Los Angeles, California Ft. Lauderdale, Florida St. Louis, Missouri San Franscisco, California Chicago (Downtown), Illinois San Diego, California Rockville, Maryland And additional chapters in Phildadelphia, Kansas City, Boston and throughout New Jersey […]
Read More The Muslim fast and the Jewish fast: Really? By Atiya Aftab, Co-Founder and Board Chair
By Saira |
Today, November 3, is the 10th day of Muharram in the year 1436. I am referring to the Hijri calendar — often less accurately called the “Islamic” calendar. While there is nothing “Islamic” about it in a religious sense, year one of the Hijri calendar marked the Hijra in 622 CE (Common Era). The Hijra […]
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Santa Barbara, Essex County, Providence and Philadelphia Chapters Launch
By Saira |
More new chapters launch. A special welcome toSanta Barbara, California; Essex County, NJ; Philadelphia, PA and Providence, Rhode Island. We are so excited to welcome our new Muslim and Jewish sisters into the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® organization. The Sisterhood now has coverage on both coasts of the US and also is active in many […]
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Sisters of a Common Soul
By Saira |
My Jewish journey has sparked an interest in learning more about other faiths. In fact, the deeper I have delved into my own religion the more interest I have in learning about others whose spiritual journeys are different from my own. I am surprised to discover that the more different I think we are, the […]
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By Saira |
“The Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom® has been a second home for me as I make my way through graduate school. Each member of my chapter has been warm and generous, and I feel comfortable opening up and sharing my thoughts and feelings with them, even though we certainly don’t agree on everything and are each […]
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