Bestselling Author & Former White House Speechwriter Sarah Hurwitz to speak on Reclaiming Jewish Identity

BOCA RATON, FL  October 8, 2026) — Temple Beth El of Boca Raton will host New York Times bestselling author and former White House speechwriter Sarah Hurwitz on Thursday, November 5, 2026 at 7:00 pm for an evening of engaging conversation centered on her latest acclaimed book, As a Jew: Reclaiming Our Story From Those Who Blame, Shame, and Try to Erase Us. at the temple’s Schaefer Family Campus located in east Boca Raton. All are welcome.

Against the backdrop of modern challenges, Sarah’s presentation provides an urgent exploration of how antisemitism has shaped Jewish identity, offering a powerful roadmap for how Jews can reclaim their traditions and live proudly in 2026. The book has achieved critical acclaim, earning both a National Jewish Book Award and the Natan Notable Book Award.

“At a time when Jews across the world are facing real fears for their safety and well-being, when antisemitism is rising all around us, Sarah Hurwitz’s message to be proud of our tradition and all the unique things that make us Jewish is both healing and inspiring. Her timely visit, just days after elections in both Israel and the US, will help us understand a changing political landscape and empower us to move forward together with strength, inspired by the wisdom of our tradition,” said Rabbi Greg Weisman.

Sarah’s unique perspective as a masterful storyteller and her deeply personal journey of rediscovering Jewish wisdom is sure to connect everyone in attendance more deeply with their Jewish heritage.

General admission tickets: $18 per person.

Admission is free for students with a valid ID

 A book signing and Oneg reception will immediately follow the main presentation.

Register for tickets at tbeboca.org/as-a-jew.

For more information, call 561-391-8900 or visit tbeboca.org.

 About Sarah Hurwitz

Sarah Hurwitz is a bestselling author, sought-after speaker, and former White House speechwriter who served as a senior speechwriter for President Barack Obama and as head speechwriter for First Lady Michelle Obama. During her eight years in the White House, she helped craft some of the administration’s most memorable speeches and traveled extensively with Mrs. Obama around the world.

After a successful career in politics and public service, Sarah embarked on a personal journey that led her to rediscover Judaism as a source of meaning, wisdom, and spiritual depth. That experience inspired her acclaimed first book, Here All Along: Finding Meaning, Spirituality, and a Deeper Connection to Life—in Judaism (After Finally Choosing to Look There). Her second book, As a Jew: Reclaiming Our Story From Those Who Blame, Shame, and Try to Erase Us, became a New York Times bestseller and earned multiple national awards.

A graduate of Harvard College and Harvard Law School, Sarah has been featured by major media outlets including The Washington Post, The Today Show, NPR, and The Guardian. Through her writing and speaking, she helps audiences explore Jewish identity, spirituality, leadership, storytelling, and the enduring relevance of Jewish wisdom in modern life.

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