Cities Embracing Jewish Heritage

Vision

The Cities Embracing Jewish Heritage initiative envisions European cities where Jewish heritage is actively used to build inclusive, resilient communities. It is grounded in the belief that engaging with Jewish history and culture can counter antisemitism, challenge prejudice, and promote understanding. Its objective is to support municipalities in transforming heritage into a living resource that fosters dialogue, social cohesion, and active citizenship.

Activity

CEJH supports and guides municipalities in the design and implementation of locally tailored cultural, educational, and community-based initiatives within the framework of the European Days of Jewish Culture.
Activities include exhibitions, heritage tours, public events, educational programmes, artistic initiatives, and community dialogues. The project also provides mentoring, networking opportunities, communication support, and access to resources, enabling cities to develop impactful programmes that connect heritage with contemporary societal challenges.

jewisheritage.org/edjc/cities-embracing-jewish-heritage

When Jewish life and heritage are visible, diverse, and shared, prejudice begins to fade, and space for dialogue and tolerance grows.

- Project manager of Cities Embracing Jewish Heritage

Sonja Viličić

Sonja Viličić was born and lives in Serbia and has a rich background in Jewish education, community development, and activism. For years, she has been deeply involved in various initiatives to foster understanding, combat discrimination, and promote active citizenship, both within the Jewish community and in broader society.
As the Project Manager of the „Cities Embracing Jewish Heritage“, Sonja’s work aims to leverage cities’ Jewish heritage and culture as an antidote against antisemitism, hate speech, and ignorance while promoting intercultural dialogue and understanding.
Furthermore, Sonja is the Executive Director of the NGO Haver Srbija, where she leads efforts to confront prejudice and discrimination while promoting active citizenship through educational initiatives exploring Jewish culture, history, and tradition.
Sonja is deeply dedicated to raising awareness about pressing social issues and empowering communities to take action. She actively cultivates environments where educational and cultural initiatives flourish, aiming to challenge stereotypes, nurture empathy, and foster understanding among individuals and communities.