Tuesday, June 09, 2026

Graduation party for Eliana G

Eliana G., the youngest daughter of Zufan G., just graduated from high school. Their family came from Eritrea as refugees during the COVID-19 pandemic, and have worked hard to build a life in their new home. Eliana was a leader in her school, and has received a scholarship to attend college in the fall. The refugee relief committee of my havurah, Fabrangen, has been sponsoring and working with them after being linked up by ECDC, the Ethiopian Community Development Council. We are very proud of Eliana and her entire family for their strength, hard work, and courage, and wish them a bright future. 

Plus, great injera and homemade Eritrean food. Thanks also to the dedicated and kind members of Fabrangen who have been there for the family.









Petworth Klezmer | Petworth Porch Festival

Petworth Klezmer band jamming at the Petworth Porch Festival in Washington DC at the home of Mr. Levine. Some of the musicians included Richard Gladstein- clarinet, David Julian Gray- saxophone, Lauren Maunus- baritone horn, Abe Plaut- trumpet, Gary Rimar- keyboard. Plus a bunch of enthusiastic dancers. 













OUDC at Mt. Zion Female Union Band Cemetery

The participants of Operation Understanding DC (OUDC) recently attended a program at Mt. Zion Female Union Band Cemetery in Georgetown, Washington DC. They learned from Lisa Fager of Black Georgetown about the history, abandonment, and process of restoration of this resting place. Once a sheltering stop on the Underground Railroad, it also marks a significant era of Black life in the nation's capitol. 

Thanks to the staff of OUDC and to Ms. Fager.