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THE DIASPORA: YOUR JOURNEY
The journey of the Jewish diaspora has had an immense impact on the development of modern world politics, economics and culture. Many modern Jews can trace their roots back to distant lands far from their current home. These journeys permeate generations, passed down through treasured stories, objects and photographs. Where did your family's journey begin? What is your diaspora story? Share your journey below and include a family photograph, home video or image of a special heirloom that represents your own Story of the Jews.

Al Bergstein

Port Townsend, WA

Orphaned in Valkevish Poland, my paternal great grandmother, Rachel Cohen, was shipped to the US, on a boat with her best friend who died en route in her arms. Rachel was put in an orphanage, and eventually moved to New York City, as a seamstress. She married Samuel Rosenzweig, and had a daughter. My father’s grandfather was a black sheep, who came from Eastern Germany, or western Poland. He had two sons, one was a WWI war hero front line surgeon, Alfred, and his brother, Milton, who stayed home and became a successful grocer and garment factory owner. My father became a successful horse racing executive.

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