HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!!!!

With the holiday of Juneteenth coming up on June 19, marking the emancipation of the last slaves at the end of the American Civil War, FJMC leader Johnny Parker of the Seaboard Region reflects on what it means today to him and others. 

FJMC is all about building community and building relationships. But how much do we really know about each other? Let's find out together.

You are human. You are holy. Your life matters. Your love matters. Your presence blesses all of us.

For this month's examples of Pro-Semitism, think of weddings, and getting around.

What is Pro-Semitism? It's about fighting back against hate, by promoting our accomplishments, highlighting Jewish contributions to our daily lives, and how a small number of people can make a large positive impact.

Check out this month's examples.

Rabbi Dr. David Meyer, a member of the Anshe Zafon Region, is being honored by the International Council of Christians and Jews with the 2026 Seelisberg Prize for his work to bring Christians and Jews together. Meyer, a native of France who holds French, Israeli and Canadian citizenship, has been a professor at the Cardinal Bea Centre for Judaic Studies at the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome - a role that one FJMC leader likens to being "the Pope's rabbi."

Israeli music has come a long way in the last few decades, with modern artists belting out songs rivaling those found in the United States and Europe, and competing in Eurovision. Our Jason Hecht will take us on a regular tour through Israel's musical world.

This month, here's a Father's Day toast from Ron Shoval, called "Toda La'Aba."

FJMC International Vice President Dr. Mitch Ross and his wife, Heather, have created a special fund within the FJMC Foundation for Jewish Life to support programs that promote men’s health and wellness, including preventive care, early disease detection, mental health support, and health education. Eligible programs may include club-level initiatives, regional speakers or events, and international programming at FJMC gatherings.

For more information about the Ross Health & Wellness Fund, please see the grant submission guidelines and application. Deadline has been extended to July 1.

FJMC International proudly recognizes June as both LGBT Pride Month and Disability Pride Month, honoring the LGBTQ+ and disability communities whose resilience, courage and advocacy continue to enrich our society and strengthen our commitment to justice and inclusion. That's why we're honored to partner with Keshet and Svara.

Pride is the theme of the latest issue of our publication "Pride and Prejudice,” that shows that true pride emerges when we create communities where everyone belongs—moving beyond tokenism to year-round celebration, meaningful support and the sacred work of ensuring no one faces rejection or isolation alone.

If there's one thing that can be said about FJMC, its members, and our events, it's that, despite all of our seriousness, we like to loosen up. And while it's certainly not all about having a good drink, there's certainly nothing wrong with one either. So our own Al Davis will be curating some of your best recommendations.

Quality education builds healthy communities, and reduces inequalities, regardless of background or ethnicity. And within Jewish values, there is a moral and ethical responsibility to teach your children.

FJMC is continuing its effort to work with Kulanu to collect unused or extra tefillin or tallitot, to be distributed to Jewish communities in need around the world. It's a mitzvah, and we hope these communities will join us next year for World Wide Wrap. Donations now being accepted! Help us help our fellow Jews.

From successful retreat to exciting tailgate, the Midwest Region works to overcome its large geography.

The New England Region will meet up June 4-7 at Camp Jori in Rhode Island.

Hudson Valley, Middle Atlantic, New York Metro and Northern New Jersey will meet up June 12-14 in Lakewood, Pa.

Seaboard meets up June 19-21 at Pearlstone in Baltimore.

Are you involved in social media marketing and/or have expertise in creating social media campaigns? Our FJMC International Communications Committee needs your help and support! We are forming a subcommittee to focus on increasing our social media reach and engagement. Please contact Communications Chair Lester Shapiro at LShapiro@fjmc.org to learn more and participate.

It's not easy being green - the FJMC has a long-standing commitment to the environment and sustainability with the Shomrei Ha'aretz Initiative, and we need more guys to carry on that work. Norwin Merens is taking over as chairman. Contact him directly or email environment@fjmc.org to learn more about how to help. 

All of our past editions of HaD'Var are available for your reading pleasure on the FJMC website in the Media Section.

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