Hispanic Jewish Cooperative Council

The Hispanic Jewish Initiative at the Tampa Jewish Community Centers and Federation—Launched in 2023

The Hispanic Jewish Initiative

Launched in 2023, the Hispanic Jewish Initiative is a commitment to fostering understanding, respect, and collaboration between the Hispanic and Jewish communities in Tampa Bay—By working together on shared concerns facing both communities, such as Cultural Awareness, Economic Development, and Discrimination/Antisemitism.

Jewish Tampa

The Tampa Bay area, including counties such as Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco, is home to a thriving Jewish community which includes synagogues, community agencies, schools and Jewish community centers. Many community members can trace their roots to diaspora Jews from Cuba, Venezuela, Colombia, Argentina, Chile, Brazil, Mexico and many other countries in North, Central and South America as well as the Caribbean.

History of Jewish People in Tampa

The Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto landed on the west coast of Florida in 1539. (Hancock, 2022). Numerous references are made to “Juetas,” and their dealings with local Native American tribes. Later in the 19th century and as the cigar industry began to develop in Tampa, Jewish families started to settle (the Glogowski, Maas, Kaunitz, Brash, Oppenheimer, Wolf, and Wohl families were among the first Jewish families to settle in Tampa) and quickly started to contribute to the city’s commercial development. For example, Herman Glogowski served as the mayor for four terms, from 1886 until 1894. May of the Jews who arrived in Tampa during the late 19th century were merchants who came from Georgia and South Carolina.  (Museum of the Jewish People, 2024).

Volunteer Opportunities: Your Skills, Your Impact

We are currently seeking volunteers from various professional backgrounds to contribute their skills and expertise. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting your career, there’s a place for you in our initiative. Explore opportunities in:

• Community Outreach: Engage with local communities to promote cultural exchange and understanding.

• Event Coordination: Help organize events that celebrate the rich heritage of both communities.

• Communication and Media: Contribute to spreading awareness through social media, newsletters, and other channels.

• Collaborative Projects: Join forces on initiatives that promote unity, tolerance, and shared values.

How to Get Involved:

Send me us short email! hola@jewishtampa.com (Comment: need a shared mailbox for the Hispanic Jewish Initiative).

If you are interested to volunteer with us, please send us quick note along with your resume.

Works Cited

Hancock, J. (2022, March 10). Hernando de Soto’s Expedition to La Florida (1539-1542). Retrieved from Word History Encyclopedia.

Museum of the Jewish People. (2024, January 23). The Jewish Community of Tampa, FL. Retrieved from ANU Databases.