CMI Confronting Racism is pleased to present a very special community event!
The Afro-Semitic Experience will premiere a new Jazz song cycle Exodus to Emancipation
Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at 7 pm Congregation Mishkan Israel
Exodus to Emancipation explores the legacy of slave songs from both African American and Jewish traditions, intertwining historical research with creative musical interpretations and original compositions. Through the work, the Afro-Semitic Experience, a seven-piece ensemble co-founded by bassist and composer David Chevan and pianist and composer Warren Byrd seek to evoke the emotional depths of enslavement and liberation, offering a musical journey bridging two histories of struggle and resilience.
Like previous works by The Afro-Semitic Experience, this song cycle is rooted in collaboration. Drawing from collections of spirituals, slave songs, biblical sources, and transcribed archival recordings, the ensemble has crafted a work that reveals connections between African American and Jewish musical traditions. The project highlights lyrics and stories that illuminate shared experiences, tracing how spirituals have historically referenced the biblical Exodus as a symbol of hope and resistance. These connections deepen our appreciation of how music has served as both testimony and refuge for oppressed communities.
Beyond honoring musical heritage, Exodus to Emancipation delivers a profound social and racial justice message, through storytelling and artistic vision.
Congregation Mishkan Israel’s Confronting Racism series has been offering ongoing opportunities since 2020 to increase understanding of systemic racism both historically and in current times. Participants reflect on how Jewish teaching and ethics compel us to confront racism in its many forms, guided by the teaching that “You are not obligated to complete the task, but neither are you free to desist from it” (Pirke Avot 2:21).
In addition to congregation-based programming, CMI Confronting Racism is proud to welcome community members at public events with guest speakers.
Light refreshments will follow the program.
