By Sasha Joyner

I want to first express my deep gratitude to the Maurers for cultivating this culture of inclusivity and discovery along with Margo Fox and the JFGI.

We are not only moving through this experience and noticing our own transformations, but we are also witnessing the growth of our newfound family. It is beautiful. I have learned that by uncovering our history, we can help shape a future of continued resilience. This theme becomes evident when hearing the stories shared by so many incredible people coming from different worlds, sharing their experiences. An aspect of the trip I have found most inspiring. The human connection I feel with someone who has been through the unthinkable and embodied strength and compassion through it is powerful.

Although I have not been personally affected by the Holocaust in the ways I have heard described—ways that have prevented survivors from passing down what it means to be Jewish—I, too, grapple with understanding what being Jewish means to me and how I want to pass it on to my family. In Poland and Hungary, the lost culture has needed active support and safe spaces for people to explore their identity. How surprisingly similar we are, despite our different circumstances. Could this be part of a collective consciousness shaped by the environment of today? Realizing this connection has helped me understand that the meaningful work being done by these inspiring people is also work that needs to be carried forward at home, thanks to people like the Maurers. The words, “We have to train our replacements,” resonate deeply with me as I reflect on this journey. I no longer see this only through the eyes of a grateful participant, but also through the lens of asking, “How can I contribute next?” 

Today, in addition to touring the Dohany Synagogue—the largest in Europe and the second largest in the world—and walking through the Jewish district in Budapest, we heard three personal accounts of October 7 and the war in Israel, as well as one perspective on the political climate. Each personal story highlighted the strength and pride found within their communities, demonstrating the power of community support. This sense of community is essential, and it is what we are building for our own families as well. The mission of connecting with each other and with our fellow Jews abroad resonates deeply with me.

As a mother, everything ultimately comes down to my children. The most emotional moments of my expedition have been witnessing the pain and fear of children and seeing mothers—the embodiment of safety and comfort—feeling powerless. Something inside me breaks at the thought of losing that power and I know it breaks inside every mother who has experienced this. It happened to millions of mothers just like me, and each story that ended in that way is devastating.

I am proud of the people of Israel who refuse to surrender their power, drawing strength from their community, their unity. They support one another, and we are standing with them. We are strong.

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The Maurer Koach Program  (Koach means "strength" in Hebrew) is experiential and provides exposure and experiences that equip the cohort with tools to educate, lead, and advocate for themselves and others. It is currently in its second year. The program includes 8 monthly interactive sessions, where local, national, and international leaders address current approaches to understanding and combatting antisemitism as well as provide insights into Jewish life, leadership, and social justice. In addition to the sessions, the cohort takes a trip to Poland and Hungry to learn and experience historical moments. This blog is part of a series of reflections from members of the cohort while on this trip.