Natalie Posner L&S Arts & Humanities
Strength in Diaspora: The Jewish Press in Montréal and New York
How did Jewish newspapers allow immigrants in New York City and Montréal to forge a community in the diaspora? Specifically, how did the Jewish press compare in these two hubs for Jewish immigration? My research sets out to answer these questions by examining newspapers published by and for Jewish people in these regions from the late 19th-century to the mid 20th-century. By establishing an organ of Jewish thought and opinion, New York and Montréal Jews alike sought to counteract the antisemitism echoed in mainstream press and forge a stronger community in diaspora. This comparative, transnational lens is critical in adding to the narrative of Jewish migration to North America. It seeks to both challenge the idea that the Jewish diaspora played out homogeneously in North America by highlighting differences between New York and Montréal Jewry, while also highlighting the cross-border cultural similarities between the two communities. I believe that this approach can contribute new knowledge to how migrant communities build strength in the diaspora.
Message To Sponsor
Thank you so much to Wishek for sponsoring my research this summer. I learned a lot about the process of a historian: from surfing the archives, to compiling sources, to finding my angle. It was incredibly beneficial to me as I go on to complete a year-long honors thesis with the History department. I feel more confident in my ability to navigate the research process, especially because of the helpful workshops and incredible SURF faculty. Thank you!