Although this necklace was not physically passed down to me, nor was it a piece that has been around for a long time, the meaning to it is very special to me. My family has lived in America for the last three generations, but has always has a very strong connection to Israel and Judaism. I got this necklace a couple years ago when I went to visit Israel. The necklace is an “alef” which is the first letter in the hebrew alphabet as well as the first letter to my name. This necklace helps me feel connected to my roots—Judaism and Israel. It makes me feel like I am always somehow connected to my heritage and my people. Even though it is just a necklace, it symbolizes my religion and my country, something my grandparents and great-grandparents, and so on, were just as deeply connected to/with as I am. It makes me feel stronger about everything, including my roots and wearing it is a constant reminder of them.

– E.M

Relationship:  Grandchild of im/migrant Grandchild of im/migrant