In the late 19th century, hundreds of thousands of Jews fled the Russian Empire, many crossing borders illegally in search of safety and a new life. Professor Anastasiia Strakhova from University of Illinois brings her scholarly expertise to this fascinating and deeply resonant chapter of Jewish history, exploring who these migrants were, what drove them to leave, and how they navigated a world that was often hostile to their passage. The echoes of their story in our own moment are impossible to ignore.

Beth Emet relies on budgeted funds and donations to support adult education. This year, instead of class fees, we aim to raise $4,000 to cover costs. Please consider an optional donation at registration to help sustain lifelong learning.