I received this update on another list and thought it might be of interest
to Museum-L readers.  Please contact them directly with any questions.

Robert Tabak
Balch Institute for Ethnic Studies
_____________

The Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience in Utica Mississippi, one of
America's most innovative Jewish cultural institutions is expanding its
mission
under a new name: the Institute of Southern Jewish Life (ISJL).

Expanding the institution from a center for documenting and collecting the
vanishing vestiges of Jewish life in a multi-state area of America's south,
the
new institute will employ a "circuit-riding Jewish educator, a rabbi, help
preserve and maintain cemeteries, secure historic sites, record oral
histories,
develop a genealogy center, and become a major force in the
advocacy for the small and isolated communities."

For years MSJE as provided an effective model for how Jewish cultural
heritage
can be protected and preserved, and also adapted as a vital educational and
cultural resource in areas with rich Jewish histories, but relatively little
contemporary recognition and clout in the modern Jewish world.  Under the
guidance of Museum founder Macy Hart, the new Institute is more than likely
to
continue this leadership role.  The Institute will officially kick off with
a
gala event in New Orleans on September 16, 2000. For more information about
the
museum and its new mission consult http://www.msje.org.


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