Community invited to celebrate humanity at AJC Houston’s America’s Table

The American Jewish Committee believes America’s strength lies in upholding equality, dignity and opportunity for all. It also believes that pluralism and mutual respect form the foundation of a shared society. This commitment to unity inspires AJC’s Community of Conscience initiative and is at the heart of AJC Houston’s annual America’s Table Breakfast.

The community is invited to join AJC members for America’s Table on Thursday, Nov. 13, at 8 a.m. The event celebrates the power of shared humanity through the voices of three remarkable individuals. These include:

• Yona Starosta, a multinational Jewish attorney born to Jewish refugees from the former Soviet Union

• T. Dorina Papageorgiou, Ph.D., M.H.Sc., FAAN, a Greek-American professor and neuroscientist

• Officer G. Lual, a former Lost Boy of Sudan and now a proud officer with the Houston Police Department

Their personal stories will inspire reflection on the values that unite us and the diverse cultural tapestry that makes Houston such a vibrant and exceptional community.

In the coming issues of the Jewish Herald-Voice, AJC Houston will spotlight each storyteller individually. Together, their journeys of resilience, faith and identity reflect the spirit that unites us all, inspiring reflection, encouraging dialogue and reminding us of the profound strength found in community.

AJC Houston recently sat down with Officer Lual, who came to Houston 24 years ago from South Sudan. His story is one of extraordinary perseverance.

Beginning in 2001, approximately 4,000 Sudanese “Lost Boys” were resettled as refugees in the United States. After enduring years of war, long treks on foot and refugee camps in Kenya and Ethiopia, many, like Lual, arrived without their parents or extended families.

At 19, Lual arrived in the U.S., carrying everything he owned in one plastic bag. Adjusting to a new culture and way of life was challenging, but with the support of local nonprofit organizations, he found his footing and resolved to give back to the city that welcomed him.

Houston, Lual said, gave him “a new way of life.” Now a U.S. citizen, husband and father, Lual hopes to return to South Sudan next year to introduce his children to their grandmother and show them where he grew up.

Stories like Lual’s embody the spirit of AJC Houston’s America’s Table. Guests will include civic, business and faith leaders from across the city.

Veteran journalist Khambrel Marshall will once again serve as emcee, guiding the program with warmth and insight.

Attending America’s Table is an opportunity to stand with others who believe in the power of connection and the importance of mutual respect. Your presence and support help AJC to continue building bridges across communities, promote understanding and strengthen the foundation of a more unified Houston. Join AJC and become part of the story that shapes a stronger, more connected city.

Tickets are available at donate.ajc.org/americastable. Event location will be emailed upon verified registration.