Pride in Our Heritage: A Day of Learning, is a special educational conference to be held at Temple Anshe Sholom, 215 Cline Avenue North, Hamilton, on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. The Day of Learning reflects Temple Anshe Sholom's commitment to fostering Jewish learning, thoughtful dialogue, and community engagement through accessible educational programming.

Bringing together leading scholars from Canada and abroad, the conference will explore Jewish history, Israel, antisemitism, and the remarkable resilience of the Jewish people. Whether you attend the entire day or choose only those presentations that are of particular interest to you, you are sure to leave with new knowledge, fresh perspectives, and a deeper appreciation of our shared heritage.

The program will feature four outstanding presentations:

9:10 AM – 10:00 AM Dr. Ketevan Kakitelashvili (Guest speaker from Tbilisi, Georgia)
Georgian Jews in the Age of Modernity: Preserving Identity Across the Ages
Discover the remarkable history of one of the world's oldest and most remote Jewish communities, whose members preserved their Jewish identity and enduring attachment to Zion for over two millennia, and whose centuries-old dream was fulfilled with the establishment of the State of Israel.

10:10 AM – 11:00 AM Dr. Ronnie Miller
UNRWA: From Temporary Humanitarian Agency to Permanent UN Anti-Israel Institution
A historical examination of how UNRWA evolved from a temporary refugee relief agency into one of the most controversial institutions within the United Nations and how that transformation has influenced the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

11:10 AM – 12:00 PM Dr. Cary Kogan
A Hostile Campus Climate: Antisemitism in Canadian Universities after October 7
This presentation examines the rise of antisemitism in Canadian universities after October 7, through the experiences of Jewish students and faculty. It highlights the impact on academic freedom, well-being, professional life, and the challenges confronting Jewish scholars on campus.

1:00 PM – 2:00 PM Dr. Celia Rothenberg
KEYNOTE ADDRESS: Temple Anshe Sholom's Holocaust Torah: A Story of Survival and Renewal
The story of Temple Anshe Sholom's Holocaust Torah (MST#61) is a journey from destruction to renewal. Learn how this rescued Czech Torah became a living symbol of remembrance, resilience, and the enduring continuity of the Jewish people.

All presentations are free of charge. Only the luncheon and keynote presentation require payment of $36 per person.