About JDC - Jewish Deaf Congress

Welcome to Jewish Deaf Congress!

We make Judaism relevant, meaningful and joyful.

Support Jewish Traditions!

About Us

Jewish Deaf Congress is a vibrant organization, serving persons who are Jewish and Deaf, primarily in North America. Jewish Deaf, DeafBlind, DeafDisabled, Hard of Hearing, and Late-Deafned persons and their families gather together in our community of pluralism – whether Reform, Conservative, Reconstructionist, Orthodox, or any other Jewish affiliation that is of Jewish belief, practice, and community. We are an essential part of Klal Yisrael – the worldwide community of Jewry. As an organization, we join the greater Jewish community in our dedication to Tikkun Olam – the Jewish healing of the World.

As Jews, we are woven together by a rich tapestry of stories. We find strength in our shared humanity and celebrate the vibrant diversity within our community. Jewish Deaf Congress embodies this spirit of connection. We are a place where collaboration flourishes. We stand as leaders, partners, and pioneers, driven by optimism and a commitment to positively impact the world. Our keywords are diversity, courage, inclusivity, authenticity, and optimism.

We invite you to join us in conversations!

Mission Statement: JDC empowers Jewish Deaf individuals to explore their heritage, connect with their community, and flourish throughout their lives. Rooted in Judaism and Deaf experiences, we serve as a national organization, network, and resource center, fostering lifelong Jewish learning and cultural connections.

Vision Statement: JDC unlocks a world of connection and belonging for Jewish Deaf individuals, families, allies, and professionals. We provide full access to the rich tapestry of Jewish spirituality, traditions, culture, and social heritage while fostering a deep connection to the vibrant Deaf community.

JDC Core Guiding Values

Inclusive and accessible learning, resources, and advocacy

Embrace Jewish traditions, culture, and history.

Embrace American Sign Language and/or Israeli Sign Language, Deaf culture, and Deaf community

Bring Jewish spirituality to light

Growth and preservation of Jewish heritage and fellowship

Strong support for Israel and the Israeli Deaf community

“It is our goal to revive Jewish Deaf Congress (JDC) so that it can continue its mission to ensure that the Deaf Jewish population can stay in touch with Deaf Jewish people, maintain our Jewish heritage and meet our religious needs.”

The reason for my being on the Ad Hoc Committee is that I cannot bear to see JDC fade away forever and I will work to keep it alive for the sake of future generations. In the future, our local affiliates may need a national organization for help and resources. Deaf people will want to know what the JDC affiliates are doing in their cities, enabling us to improve our organization.

I am on the Ad Hoc Committee because I feel it’s important to have an organization for Jewish Deaf people from all over the world to connect for educational, informative & social purposes.

I believe in JDC’s vast potential and ability to grow as an inclusive national resource, network and advocate for Jewish Deaf people, their families, friends and professionals.

Board

Meet our Board and Team and learn more about everyone.

Bylaws

JDC Bylaws. As approved by the Board of Directors during 2022 Conference.

History

The National Congress of Jewish Deaf (NCJD) was established in 1956 by Jewish Deaf leaders in New York City…