What BWC Membership Means to Miriam
I came to Boston Workers Circle in 2017 to learn Yiddish. At 22, I realized that I had never heard a full sentence in Yiddish – not out loud, not in a recording, not ever! I just had to investigate this language which is part of my heritage, and luckily – in the pre-Zoom era – I lived in a city where Yiddish classes were readily available through BWC. The classes were already more affordable than in any other city, but I couldn’t turn down a deal – while I wish I could say it was for a more noble reason, in truth, I first became a BWC member for the class discounts. This turned out to serve me well over the five semesters I took Yiddish classes at BWC!
Soon though, not only had I fallen in love with Yiddish, but I also found myself staying and deepening my involvement in this radical community – coming to High Holiday services, concerts, and other events. It was deeply meaningful to me to see a way to grow into adulthood in a community where I didn’t have to let go of my leftist politics, my heritage language, my queerness. Seeing such a vibrant and intergenerational community model made radical adulthood feel not only possible but joyful and connected.
For years, my BWC membership revolved around taking classes and going to events –I never considered myself to be even near the center of the community. Yet when I look at my membership card, which I keep in my wallet, I remember all of the BWC members – new members and long-time members — who have been warm and curious to meet me, excited that I’m enthusiastic to show up, and ready to learn from me and share their stories too. I remember that being a card-carrying member of organizations I believe in is a long part of my heritage – something my parents and their parents and theirs have found meaning and belonging in, and continue to do so.
If you are on the fence and not sure if you belong as a member at BWC, let me be a warm, curious presence welcoming you in and letting you know you do belong here. Each member of this member-led organization contributes to our vibrancy and helps make our voice more powerful on all the issues we care about. Join me in membership today!