A new generation of students Bronx Jewish History Project We work with experienced people, including the group’s student co-founders and professional historians.
BJHP is a Fordham research effort preserving the story of the Jewish Bronx. This project was originally started by Sophia Meyer, FCRH ’23, who documented the stories of more than 75 members of the Jewish community who once called the Bronx home. Now, in the months leading up to earning her master’s degree in teaching at the university this spring, Meyer is teaching a new group of undergraduate students how to continue the project.
“It was really great to meet these students,” Meyer said. developed an initiative with student Reyna Stovall and the Center for Jewish Studies. “Seeing how excited they are, how hard they work, how much they care warms my heart and makes me feel even more confident about leaving this spring. ”
Oral history by a professional historian
Approximately 12 undergraduate and graduate students participated in BJHP this semester. of College of Arts and Sciences Dean’s Faculty Challenge Grant. Students studying subjects ranging from economics to theology to history are interested in BJHP for a variety of reasons, he said. Daniel Sawyer, Ph.D., BJHP Director and History Professor. He is Jewish himself, with family ties to the Bronx. Some are interested in Jewish studies or history.
During a recent training session, the students met Leila Vral, an oral historian based in New York City. Vral, who earned a master’s degree in oral history from Columbia University, has interviewed Nobel Prize winners, scientists, artists, labor union members, LGBTQ New Yorkers and more. She spoke to her students about how to approach interviews and how to practice work ethics.
“The thing that stuck with me the most was when she talked about how the role of an interviewer is first and foremost to listen,” Meyer said.
Jews of the Bronx: An important part of New York City history
BJHP recent conference.Most students participate via Zoom
In another class, Mr. Sawyer taught students about the Jewish history of the Bronx.
“The Bronx used to be the most Jewish neighborhood, almost half Jewish, and now it’s the least Jewish,” Sawyer said. “through [BJHP], we capture an understudied and important part of Bronx, New York, and Jewish history. ”
As part of the training, the students also learned how to conduct interviews using a 27-page document from Meyer. Guidebook Developed by Meyer himself.
“I’m thinking about getting a Ph.D., so it’s great to work with undergraduates and get that experience,” said Scott, who earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Fordham University in Rose Hill and is currently a university student. said Meyer, an aspiring history teacher who earned a bachelor’s degree in .of Accelerated master’s program in of Graduate School of Education.
This summer, Meyer, Stovall and Sawyer will be teaching high school students about New York’s Jewish history. 1 week course, part of Fordham’s annual summer program. Sawyer said their curriculum will include an oral history of BJHP.
“Just listen” while drinking tea
Being a part of BJHP means a lot, Meyer said, tearing up as he spoke.
“It changed the trajectory of my life. I loved doing it and met a lot of great people. I really appreciate them taking an hour or two to sit down and have a cup of tea with me… and just listen,” Meyer said, noting that the oldest people said, “I really appreciate it. She spoke to a 97 year old. She said: “Having their life stories recorded and made public is… [especially for their families]It is a worthless gift. ”