The European Days of Jewish Culture and Heritage in France Association brings together French Municipalities, Institutions and Associations with the aim of promoting the development of Jewish real estate, furniture and cultural heritage. It coordinates the European Days of Jewish Culture which will mainly take place in September. Numerous and varied activities and presentations will welcome visitors throughout France. Here’s our interview with Thierry Koch, President of JECPJ-France…
Jguideeurope: How was the theme “families” chosen?
Thierry Koch: Each year, the theme of the European Days of Jewish Culture is common to all participating European countries (around thirty). The choice is made by the AEPJ (European Association for the Promotion and Preservation of Jewish Culture and Heritage). The JECPJ-France association, coordinator of the European Days of Jewish Culture for France and represented on the board of directors of the AEPJ, is of course aligned with this choice.
The “families” theme is particularly rich and adapted to these Days of promotion of Jewish culture and openness to a wide audience. “Families” first of all echoes the stories of Genesis and the questions relating to filiation, inheritance and fraternity posed by this first book of the Torah and the Bible in general. “Families” is also an opportunity to highlight the importance of domestic worship and family rites which have allowed Judaism to cross two millennia of diaspora. But “Families” also lays the foundations for a dialogue with the public and for asking current questions around family values, education and new forms of family life as a result of societal developments.
How many French regions are participating this year?
As in previous years, it is the Grand-Est, Provence – Côte d’Azur, and Ile-de-France Regions which will carry the largest share of events and activities included in the program for the 2024 edition of the European Days of Jewish Culture. In the Grand-Est, participation concerns the two departments of Alsace, Metz and Moselle, Nancy but also the department of Aube with the participation of Troyes and the municipalities which adhere to the Medieval Route of Rachi in Champagne. Occitanie will also be present, with in particular the participation of Montpellier.
Are there any new cities among them?
This year we are delighted to host activities in Lyon, thanks to the first participation of Keren Or, the liberal synagogue of Lyon. And we also hope for the participation of Bayonne thanks to the action of the Cultural Association of the Jewish Museum of Bayonne.
What events will open the EDJC?
There will not be a national opening event for the EDJC this year, but some regions are accustomed to organizing an inaugural event for their regional program. This will most certainly be the case for Lorraine, with an inauguration in Metz.
In Paris, the day at the MAHJ (Sunday September 15) will kick off and will allow us to present the other activities offered in the capital over the following weeks.