Rabbi Herschel Hartz

Graphic by Angelie Zaslavsky
Rabbi Herschel Hartz is one of the most extraordinary individuals I have ever crossed paths with. Over the past year, Rabbi Hartz has worked tirelessly to single-handedly resurrect the latent Jewish community of Inwood, Manhattan. He approaches his work with both a sweet love for all Jews and a fiery devotion that comes at the expense of regard for any of his personal needs. At one point, he directed all his funds at his efforts, and had to resort to sleeping in his car for weeks on end. True Jewish self-sacrifice at its best!
— Joshua Kogan and eight others
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
That’s why I’m paying it Forward, by matching $36,000 of reader gifts. It’s an investment in the Forward’s newsroom, to continue telling the American Jewish story with truth and independence.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
