A Night of Connection and Compassion at Havdallah Under the Stars

On September 14th, Our Seat at the Table had the privilege of partnering with the nonprofit organization If You Heard What I Heard for a beautiful and meaningful event, Havdallah Under the Stars. This gathering in Los Angeles celebrated Jewish culture, community, and resilience while showcasing the power of food to foster connection and promote belonging.

If You Heard What I Heard was founded in 2020 with a powerful mission: to share the stories of Holocaust survivors with new generations, preserving their memories and using these lessons to combat rising antisemitism. The organization focuses on making these stories relevant to today’s world, reminding us of the resilience, hope, and strength that Holocaust survivors carry with them. At Havdallah Under the Stars, these messages were intertwined with an evening of food, community, and reflection.

At the core of this incredible organization, founder Carolyn Siegel has shared her grandparents' stories, reminding attendees of the importance of remembering the Holocaust. As the last generation to hear these stories firsthand, we have a responsibility to share them, so future generations never forget. Her work emphasizes building a compassionate, informed world through storytelling, a mission that perfectly aligned with Our Seat at the Table’s dedication to fostering unity and connection.

 This celebratory evening brought together families and friends, who indulged in an incredible meal curated by some of LA’s top Jewish chefs. Attendees gathered under the stars to enjoy this feast, accompanied by beautiful music and heartfelt conversations. Food became the centerpiece of the evening—bringing people together across diverse backgrounds, united by a common desire to connect, reflect, and celebrate Jewish heritage.

For us at Our Seat at the Table, this event was a shining example of how food can create a sense of belonging. It was a reminder that when we break bread together, we build bridges between communities, fostering mutual understanding and compassion.

The spirit of the evening didn’t stop when the event concluded. After the festivities, Our Seat at the Table was responsible for gathering the remaining food and delivering it to a local organization supporting individuals facing homelessness in Los Angeles. We were proud to ensure that the delicious meals created for Havdallah Under the Stars made their way into the hands of those in need.

In a city where over 2 million people face food insecurity, according to the LA Food Bank, our commitment to food equity continues beyond events like these. It is critical to remember that food is not only a tool for celebration but a basic human necessity that too many in our community struggle to access. We must do our part to provide nourishment to those in need, promoting equity and support for our most vulnerable neighbors.

As we reflect on this inspiring event, we encourage everyone to find ways to give back to their communities. Whether it’s volunteering at a local food bank, donating goods, or organizing a fundraiser, there are countless ways to make a difference. Every contribution, no matter how small, helps in the fight against hunger.

Together, we can work towards a world where no one goes hungry and where food continues to be a source of connection, compassion, and hope.