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Jewish Caucus

The Jewish Caucus represents, supports, and advocates for OPSEU/SEFPO members who self-identify as Jewish. It provides a safe space to organize, connect, and foster understanding of the Jewish experience within the union and the broader community. The Jewish Caucus works to raise awareness of issues affecting Jewish members and promote a respectful, inclusive union free from discrimination. It also identifies barriers to participation, offers education and support, and collaborates with other equity groups to advance shared values.

Jewish Caucus

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  • Virtual Rosh Hashanah Gathering

    OPSEU/SEFPO’s Jewish Caucus warmly invites members to join our virtual Rosh Hashanah gathering. Rosh Hashanah 5787, the Jewish New Year, begins at sundown on Friday, September 11, 2026. As we prepare to welcome the New Year, we invite Jewish members and allies to come together on Tuesday, September 8, for an evening of reflection, learning, and community. Inspired by the themes of renewal, solidarity, hope, and care, this one-hour virtual gathering will explore the traditions and meaning of Rosh Hashanah while celebrating Jewish culture and the values that strengthen our union community. Through stories, music, and reflection, we will mark the beginning of…

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Join the Jewish Caucus mailing list

Jewish members and allies who would like to connect or learn more about the caucus are welcome to join our mailing list. For more information, please contact [email protected] or complete this short form https://tinyurl.com/CaucusConnect

Passover Message from the OPSEU/SEFPO Jewish Caucus

Dear Members:

Wishing a meaningful and peaceful Passover to all who celebrate.

Passover is a time of reflection, renewal, and the arrival of spring. It is connected to both a historical story and the rhythms of the agricultural season, highlighting themes of freedom, resilience, hope, and community.

Many mark the holiday by gathering for a Seder, a traditional meal and shared experience where the story of the Exodus is told and reflected upon. A text called the Haggadah is used in homes around the world to guide this storytelling and conversation.

At the Seder table, matzah, an unleavened bread eaten during Passover, is a central element recalling the haste with which the Israelites left Egypt. A symbolic plate, or arrangement of foods, includes items such as matzah, maror (bitter herbs), charoset, karpas (a vegetable, such as parsley, lettuce or potato), a roasted egg, and a shank bone. Together, these elements represent different aspects of the Passover story and its themes.

In the image above, charoset is highlighted, symbolizing the mortar of ancient labour, and appears in many forms across Jewish communities around the world, reflecting a diversity of traditions connected by a shared history. From apples and walnuts to dates, dried fruits, nuts, and spices, these traditions reflect a rich diversity connected by a shared history.

May this season bring renewal, reflection, and time with loved ones.

Chag Pesach Sameach.

In Solidarity,

OPSEU/SEFPO’s Jewish Caucus


The Jewish Caucus is here for members who wish to connect, ask questions, or need support. Please contact us at [email protected] or complete this short form to join our mailing list: https://tinyurl.com/CaucusConnect

Jack Urowitz
[email protected]
Region 2

Penina Ackerman
Region 5

Jamie Arfin
[email protected]
Secretary
Region 5

Elliott Atkins
Region 5

Lindsay Gilbert
[email protected]
Region 5

Fran Kleiner
Region 5

Moshe Lakser
[email protected]
Treasurer
Region 5

Elaine Marans
[email protected]
Communications Coordinator
Region 5

Jacqueline Partnoy
Region 5

Susan Richarz
[email protected]
(647) 990-4856
Region 5

Maia Rotin
Chair
Region 5

Jonathan Singer
[email protected]
Region 5

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