Elie Leaderman-Bray is so excited to be getting started as the Boston Field Manager at OneTable! Originally from Baltimore, MD, Elie grew up with a deep love for Jewish food and community. They studied in Amherst, Massachusetts and made their way to Boston three years ago. Elie’s had three years of experience working in the Boston Jewish community, from organizing students on college campuses to working in coalition with Jews to pass a $15 minimum wage and Paid Family and Medical Leave in Massachusetts. They come to OneTable with a passion for social change and gathering Jews across difference to learn and celebrate together. In their spare time, Elie enjoys teaching queer Jewish text study, swimming in Walden pond, and rock climbing with friends. Elie’s thrilled to get started on the OneTable team and be a part of bringing more resources, events, and Shabbat love to the Boston area.

Likes: French Bulldogs, Moana, Janelle Monae

Dislikes: Humidity, Cashews, Homophobia

What brings you to OneTable?

I come to One Table after several years of community organizing in the Boston Jewish community. I knew that some of the most fulfilling Shabbat dinners I had been to had been hosted through OneTable, and I was drawn to work that included working with people one-on-one to help build community.

What one food are you bringing to a deserted island?

Baked Ziti!

What’re you most looking forward to doing as the Boston Field Manager?

I’m really excited to meet folks with completely different practices and backgrounds than my own and have the opportunity to learn, connect, and grow together!

What’s your favorite Boston memory?

Dancing with the Torah on Tremont street every year on Simchat Torah!

What’s your favorite Jewish ritual and why?

I really love positive-oriented Jewish blessings. For example, blessings upon smelling a particularly good smell or seeing a rainbow help me ground myself in appreciation of nature and the world around me.

What does Shabbat dinner mean to you?

Shabbat dinner is a time to enjoy the company of friends and the world around me without any distractions.

Favorite challah, and can you bake it?

Love a cinnamon raisin round challah but absolutely cannot bake it.