May celebrates Asian American and Pacific Isliander Month, and Jewish American Heritage month. Maryam Chishti, co-executive director of The LUNAR Collective, exemplifies the pride and celebration of this double heritage month. She brings to her work a joyful pride in her Asian Jewish identity, and passion for creating spaces of belonging, and a vision for a thriving future for the next generation of Asian Jews.
As the Co-executive director of LUNAR, an organization dedicated to fostering community among Asian Jews, she brings a unique perspective shaped by her interfaith upbringing. With a Jewish mother from the Upper West Side and an Indian Muslim father, Maryam’s childhood was a rich blend of traditions and values that influenced her passion for inclusivity and cultural identity.
Growing up with two distinct influences, Maryam recalls joyful summers spent in India, where she immersed herself in her father’s heritage. While she was home in New York City, her Jewish identity flourished. This duality, while enriching, also posed challenges, especially during college when she felt disconnected from her cultural touchpoints. Discovering LUNAR was life deeply impactful and allowed her to find a community of individuals who shared her unique background and experiences.
Maryam’s journey with LUNAR began when she came across the organization online shortly after college. Starting as a part-time community organizer, she became Co-Executive Director alongside Jenn Rudolphi, forming a dynamic partnership where their strengths complement each other. While Maryam focuses on outward-facing community engagement, Jenni manages many of the organization’s operational and design aspects. Their collaboration has been essential in shaping LUNAR into a thriving community hub.
As AAPI and Jewish American Heritage unfolds, Maryam reflects on the growth of the Asian Jewish community. “It’s exciting to see how far we’ve come,” she says. LUNAR has become a vital source of identity and connection for many, fostering relationships and creating opportunities for dialogue. She takes pride in the organization’s current offerings, such as Chai Chats which offer inclusive 1:1s with Asian Jewish spiritual leaders, and a growing fellowship program. Looking ahead, Maryam is looking forward to LUNAR’s new initiatives, including the launch of a mental health program that addresses the intersection of Asian and Jewish identities. This program aims to provide a space for reflection and self-care, and continues LUNAR’s commitment to supporting Asian Jews holistically.
In celebration of May’s double heritage month, LUNAR’s upcoming event, “What Do I Do With All This Heritage,” in partnership with The Braid, will showcase real stories from the Asian Jewish community, reflecting the diverse experiences of individuals at various life stages. “It’s a universal story,” Maryam shares, emphasizing the importance of sharing narratives that resonate beyond cultural boundaries. Although Maryam won’t be performing, her own story will be featured, adding a deeply personal touch to the event.
The event, taking place on May 18 in NYC, promises to be both a celebration and a platform for dialogue, with live performances and opportunities for audience engagement. You can register here, and those unable to attend in person, a live stream option will ensure that everyone can partake in this enriching experience.
Maryam’s vision for LUNAR and the upcoming event is grounded in her desire to create spaces where people can connect, reflect, and celebrate their identities. “Having LUNAR growing up would have provided me with moments of reflection,” she notes, highlighting the importance of community in shaping one’s sense of self. This event not only honors Asian Jewish identities but also serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling to uplift and connect us all.
Be’chol Lashon was proud to support The Lunar Collective in its origin stage as a fiscal sponsor. Be’chol Lashon continues to support emerging projects led by Jews from diverse backgrounds through our Innovation Hubs. Learn more here.
