Tagged Myanmar

In repressive Myanmar, a tiny Jewish community hangs on to the past

The Musmeah Yeshua Synagogue in Yangon dates back to the 19th century. (Charles Dunst)
January 9, 2019 / Charles Dunst, JTA

  YANGON, Myanmar (JTA) – There was a Hanukkah party last month in this former capital city and enough guests — over 200 — to surprise an uninvited tourist. “They’re no Jews here anymore,” the tourist proclaims, confused about the celebration at Yangon’s regal Chatrium Hotel. “Yes there are,” replies… Read more »

In Burmese Chanukah celebration, signs of Myanmar’s openness to West
January 3, 2012 / Ben G. Frank, JTA
U Tin Oo, a former commander-in-chief of Myanmar's army, lights a candle at the Chanukah celebration in Yangon, Myanmar, Dec. 27, 2011. (Sammy Samuels)

(JTA) – In almost any other community from Moscow to Washington, it would have been just another public Chanukah menorah-lighting ceremony providing an opportunity for the local government and Jewish community to showcase their strong ties. But in Myanmar, where the government has been run by a military junta… Read more »