By Maia Efrem February 7, 2012

In reporting the American Jewish story, the Forward has come to appreciate the unique complexity and distinctive identity of the Russian-speaking Jewish community. That is why we are excited to partner with Genesis Philanthropy Group to launch Blognik Beat, which we hope will be a new home for conversation among young Jewish writers who have emigrated from or have ties to the Former Soviet Union.

Blognik Beat contributors are high school and university students in North America who trace their roots to a wide array of former Soviet Republics. They are passionate about writing and have a keen sense of the issues that matter to youth and first-generation heritage speakers from the FSU. On this daily blog, they will offer ideas and commentary on topics of religion, identity, culture, arts and politics.

Genesis Philanthropy Group is an organization that seeks to foster Jewish culture, heritage and values in future generations of Russian speaking Jewish communities worldwide. The Forward retains its independence in recruiting contributors and editing the blog.

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Blognik Beat will join the Forward’s growing and flourishing lineup of blogs, including The Sisterhood; The Arty Semite; The Shmooze, Forward Thinking and Jew & the Carrot. We are excited to hear the voices of the next generation of young Russian Americans.

Maia Efrem, who was born in Georgia and lived in Israel before immigrating to the United States, is the blog’s editor. She can be reached at efrem@forward.com

Blognik Beat has been made possible through the generous support of Genesis Philanthropy Group.

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