Sep 10, 2025

Promoting Inclusivity in Jewish Miami During the High Holidays

As we approach the High Holidays, it’s important to remember that all people — those with disabilities and those without — want to participate in community prayer. That is why the Federation Miami Jewish Abilities Alliance (MJAA) is sharing valuable resources to elevate worship and celebrate Judaism. While disabilities — both visible and not visible — certainly do not prevent people from joining Rosh Hashanah or Yom Kippur services, holiday celebrations, community gatherings and family traditions can sometimes present barriers to participation. These obstacles may include lack of access to synagogues bimas, lack of tools for people with little or no vision or hearing, lack of designated seating for wheelchairs and more. MJAA recognizes the need to enable people of all abilities to worship and offers these helpful resources for all who have or care about someone with a disability. These include videos, guides for synagogues and other community organizations, lesson plans for teachers and more. Federation’s Disability Specialist, Nancy Zaretsky, is also available year-round to advance inclusivity in Jewish Miami. You may contact her via email at [email protected].