On March 6th 2018, Queens College Hillel dedicated the MEROS: Center for Bukharian Jewish Research & Identity at the Queens College. “MEROS goal is to provide educational and meaningful opportunities that encourage Bukharian Jewish students to stay connected to their religion, heritage, and roots while on the college campus.” said Manashe Khaimov, Director of MEROS
40 people attended the event amongst them were community members, rabbis, authors. scholars, alumni and current students.
“There are 1,000 Bukhar Jewish students on Queens College campus, and we are taking this opportunity very seriously.” said Uri Cohen, Executive Director of QC Hillel
At Meros, which translates as heritage in Bukhori, students have access to a bookshelf of materials in English about Bukharian Jews. Each month, a Choikhona gathering brings 60 to 70 student to enjoy Bukharian food, music, a learning session that covers culture, history, and religion. Internships connect students to Jewish nonprofits and cultural institutions, and trips are provided to the Bukharian Jewish Museum operated within the Jewish Institute of Queens.
