28 | APRIL 4 • 2024 
J
N

faces&places

T

he Coalition for Black and Jewish Unity Leadership 
Academy had an incredible kickoff on Feb. 29. The 
first class dealt with the history of Black and Jewish 
relations, and future classes will deal with antisemitism, 
racism, the Holocaust, Israel, the civil rights movement, 
slavery and other topics.
All together, there will be six sessions, ending in May. 
The goal is to impart relevant and interesting information 
relating to Black and Jewish issues and history in the 
hopes of promoting connections, solidarity and teaching 
leadership among students.
“The students were engaged and anxious to learn and 
make new relationships,” said Coalition for Black and Jewish 
Unity co-founder Mark Jacobs. “Very cool to witness!” 

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MARK JACOBS

Coalition for Black and Jewish Unity 
Leadership Academy Launches

Students and leaders of the 
Coalition for Black and Jewish 
Unity Leadership Academy.

Mark Jacobs addresses the group.

Rabbi Asher Lopatin 
addresses the students.

The students take part in a get-to-know-you activity.
Pastor Richard White of Dexter 
Avenue Baptist Church.