T

o close out February, the Jewish 
Federation of Detroit is hosting 
a special live event tackling some 
of the most pressing topics our Jewish 
community and Jewish communities 
across the world are grappling with 
post-Oct. 7. The event, which takes 
place Thursday, Feb. 29, at Temple Beth 
El in Bloomfield Township, welcomes 
Hen Mazzig to Detroit. 
Mazzig is a globally recognized 
speaker, educator, author and digital 
influencer. More than 100 million 
users have interacted with his online 
content, and he has appeared as 
an expert on Jewish issues on four 
continents, more than 500 college 
campuses, BBC, the Washington Post, 
SkyNews and TEDx. 
Mazzig will discuss the atrocities of 
Oct. 7 and the aftermath — including 
how to be a Zionist while being 
critical of the Israeli government, 
antisemitism, hate speech, propaganda 
and more. Mazzig will take questions 
from the audience and join attendees 
for a dessert reception after he speaks.
Because of everything that’s 
happened since Oct. 7, Federation 
wanted to have some additional 
community events. Bringing in 
Mazzig, someone who’s come into the 
forefront on social media since then, 
is just a taste of that.
“A lot of his posts have been shared 
widely, and they’re very poignant. We 
find that people of all ages tend to 
relate to him,” said Federation staffer 
Michelle Turnbull. “He’s going to 

provide some thoughtful insights and 
really have an engaging discussion on 
a lot of these complex issues. I know 
that’s been a tough spot for many of 
us because we’re not entirely sure how 
to speak on certain things.”
 There is no cost to attend, but 
the following minimum donation to 
Federation’s 2024 Annual Campaign 
is required: NEXTGen Detroit (21-39 
years old): $36; General (40+ years 
old): $54. 
Federation hopes to see younger 
people in attendance. There’s no 
donation requirement for college and 
high school students. 
“This has affected everyone in 
many different ways. And it’s very 
important we are able to look at what’s 
going on with a lens of understanding 
and empathy,” Turnbull said. “A lot 

of young people are very influenced 
by what’s going on. And this is a 
good opportunity to connect all ages 
and really look at this thing from an 
empathetic and interpretive lens.” 
Turnbull says it’s important that 
an international voice such as Mazzig 
comes to speak to the Metro Detroit 
Jewish community at such a critical 
time — and hopes those in attendance 
walk away feeling like the event meant 
something to them. 
“We want them to walk away with 
some fresh perspectives, to feel more 
confident and secure in their own 
beliefs and in their community,” 
Turnbull said. “And the important 
thing is we keep talking.” 
 

Register in advance by Feb. 26 at https://jlive.app/

events/6783. 

Globally recognized speaker, educator, author and 
digital influencer is coming to Temple Beth El. 

Federation Hosting 
Hen Mazzig 

DANNY SCHWARTZ SENIOR STAFF REPORTER 

OUR COMMUNITY

22 | FEBRUARY 22 • 2024 J
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