About Us
The Eidot CHeMDaT"A Federation of North America (ECFNA) is the leading umbrella organization dedicated to preserving, strengthening, and advancing the communities, institutions, and heritage of African-American and Caribbean-American Jews throughout North America.
As a multidenominational federation, ECFNA brings together synagogues, organizations, clergy, educators, scholars, and community leaders in a shared commitment to ensuring that the rich history and ongoing contributions of Eidot CHeMDaT"A Jewry are documented, celebrated, and sustained for generations to come.
ECFNA is not a religious denomination, nor does it represent any single synagogue or movement. Our role is to serve the broader community by fostering collaboration, supporting communal initiatives, preserving historical memory, and providing educational resources that strengthen Jewish life across denominational and geographic boundaries.
Our Mission
The Eidot CHeMDaT"A Federation of North America exists to connect communities, preserve history, cultivate leadership, and promote the flourishing of African-American and Caribbean-American Jewish life. We strive to ensure that every member of our community has access to institutions, resources, and opportunities that affirm both their Jewish identity and their unique cultural heritage.
Our Vision
We envision a future in which the history of Eidot CHeMDaT"A communities is fully recognized as an integral part of the Jewish story; where synagogues, organizations, and leaders work collaboratively across denominations; and where every African-American and Caribbean-American Jew can find community, belonging, and meaningful opportunities to contribute to Jewish life.
what we do
The Federation supports and promotes the growth of Eidot CHeMDaT"A communities through initiatives that include:
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Preserving and documenting the history of African-American and Caribbean-American Jewish communities.
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Maintaining national directories of synagogues, clergy, organizations, and community resources.
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Supporting educational programs, publications, and historical research.
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Building partnerships among Jewish institutions and community organizations.
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Promoting leadership development and civic engagement.
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Encouraging collaboration among affiliated organizations throughout North America.
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Serving as a trusted resource for scholars, educators, media, and the general public.
Our community
Eidot CHeMDaT"A communities reflect a rich diversity of backgrounds, traditions, and religious practices. Our federation welcomes participation from individuals and institutions across the full spectrum of Jewish life, recognizing that our shared history and common future are strengthened through mutual respect, cooperation, and communal responsibility.
Our affiliated institutions include congregations, educational organizations, youth initiatives, cultural programs, and community organizations working together to enrich Jewish life while honoring the distinct experiences of African-American and Caribbean-American Jews.
Our commitment
ECFNA is committed to preserving the stories of those who came before us, supporting the institutions that serve us today, and investing in the leaders who will shape our tomorrow. Through education, collaboration, cultural preservation, and community building, we seek to ensure that the legacy of Eidot CHeMDaT"A continues to flourish as an enduring and valued part of the Jewish people.
Together, we celebrate our heritage, strengthen our communities, and help write the next chapter in the story of Jewish life in North America.