The morning was overcast as nearly 400 women gathered at the Skirball Cultural Center on May 11th for our annual It Takes A Woman luncheon. The sun broke through and the power of their commitment to the work of Federation filled the room.
It Takes A Woman Co-Chairs Toby Koppekin and Judy Rosen welcomed everyone, who then joined in the Motzi led by Sylvia Weisz Women’s Philanthropy Co-Chairs Debi Graboff and Kathy Guccione. Next, our Federation’s Chair of the Board, Julie Platt, spoke passionately about Federation’s purpose and impact.
Next to take the podium was Anna Goodman, the Director of Programming for the Jewish Queer Straight Alliance (JQSA) youth group, a program of our Federation’s partner, JQ International. Anna shared her personal story as a young gay teen, juxtaposing her experience with the sense of welcome and inclusivity that teens feel today. The room applauded, touched by her words and our work.
Women’s Philanthropy Vice Chair Nancy Beiser spoke next about creating a warm, welcoming and inclusive community that encompasses members of all ages, races and genders. She concluded her speech with a beautiful quote from Anne Frank: “How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.”
Women’s Philanthropy Co-Chair Kathy Guccione introduced keynote speaker Lacey Schwartz, a filmmaker, attorney and Jewish activist who grew up living a Little White Lie that changed her life. When Lacey discovered the “Italian” genes that gave her an olive complexion and curly hair actually came from a biological father that was black, her life was turned upside down. This led her to film a documentary about her journey. Lacey now works as the Director of Outreach for Be’chol Lashon, an organization that advocates for the growth and diversity of the Jewish people, to ensure that Jewish people of all races feel welcome in the Jewish community.
Lacey spoke mostly about connections — her connection to herself, her mother, her children and the Jewish community, and how the diversity of the Jewish community is part of all of our stories. She also shared how her life was affected by the decision her mother made to keep her true identity a secret, and how our secrets keep us from connecting to our deepest selves and one another.
The philanthropic women of our community were deeply moved by Lacey’s story, as evidenced by their applause and the lively conversation that followed during lunch.
It Takes A Woman 2016 was a remarkable event. It offered attendees considerable food for thought, a wonderful opportunity to connect with one another, and a chance to support the organization that promotes diversity, inclusiveness, and the values that unite us all.
Check out more photos from the event!
