About the Author
Biographical sketch |
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Dr. Irma Elizabeth Diaz ,(also known as Elisheva Irma Diaz) is a born and raised Angeleno. She is an International Author, Public Speaker and lecturer whose holistic and inspirational communication skills has helped to nurture many through spiritual, mental and emotional health struggles. For the past 30 years she has been called upon to address Educators, Clergy, Physicians, Law enforcement, Business and Government leaders. Her work has taken her throughout South America, Europe, Israel and as far into Asia as India. From 1997 through 2011 the government of Brazil hosted her annually where she was given a strong voice through media outlets and scheduled speaking engagements for parliament and members of the United Nations.
In addition, she worked with her team in the slums of Brazil helping families and orphanages in their quest to rescue infants and children from the streets enabling the mental and spiritual help that was needed to stabilize the lives of many families.
Government work
In January 2020 she joined Congresswoman Grace Napolitano’s (CA31st Congressional District) staff as her Health and Mental Health Liaison. She oversees the public health issues and manages the Mental health Consortium for the Congresswoman. At the helm of the Mental Health Consortium, Dr. Diaz orchestrates a symphony of collaboration among esteemed Mental and Behavioral Health Leaders from every corner of our communities. Through innovative roundtable discussions, she fosters an environment where first responders, educators, law enforcement officials, business leaders, and clergy converge to exchange insights, share best practices, and chart the course for impactful legislation.
Dr. Diaz's visionary leadership extends beyond the boardroom; she actively engages grassroots organizations serving low-income and vulnerable communities, amplifying their voices and ensuring that their unique perspectives are integrated into the fabric of mental health policymaking. Through her tireless advocacy, she empowers these vital stakeholders to navigate the complexities of stigma, trauma, and poverty exacerbated by the recent pandemic, COVID-19.
Driven by her unwavering commitment to building resilient communities, Dr. Diaz's collaborative approach to mental health leadership transcends traditional boundaries, forging meaningful connections and catalyzing transformative change. Her ability to unite diverse stakeholders and mobilize community leadership underscores her profound impact as a trailblazer in the field of mental health advocacy.
Panelist for the US House of Representatives
Dr. Diaz is recognized as a distinguished expert in the realm of public service and constituent relations. Her invaluable insights and extensive experience have garnered her repeated invitations by the prestigious US House of Representatives Chief Administrative Office. She is a trusted panelist within the Congressional Leadership Learning and Development Program, affectionately known as the "Coach Program," where she lends her expertise to train chiefs of staff, managers and their staff on a diverse array of topics vital to effective governance.
Among her notable contributions, Dr. Diaz shares her wealth of knowledge on handling challenging situations, including strategies for managing irate callers with diplomacy and tact. Her guidance on de-escalating potentially dangerous calls stands as a testament to her commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all involved. Moreover, she offers invaluable insights into the unique challenges faced by congressional staff in their interactions with the public as representatives of their respective offices. Her sessions provide practical tools and coping mechanisms to navigate these demanding roles with grace and resilience, ultimately fostering a more effective and harmonious working environment within the hallowed halls of Congress.
Dr. Diaz was recently appointed as a newly elected member of the Board of Directors for the Center for Integrated Family Health Services based in Covina, California, a distinguished organization dedicated to fostering holistic well-being in Los Angeles County. Her unwavering commitment to serving the community and advancing the cause of integrated family health services has earned her this esteemed role.
Community and Media
In a remarkable display of her leadership and expertise, Dr. Diaz was honored to moderate groundbreaking dialogue alongside the renowned Dr. Phil, convened for the esteemed Congresswoman Grace Napolitano of California and Congressman John Katko of New York. This distinguished event, held in May of 2020, centered on the critical issues of children's mental health, suicide prevention, and the far-reaching impacts of the global pandemic. Dr. Diaz's insightful moderation facilitated a poignant and constructive dialogue, ensuring that vital perspectives were shared, and innovative solutions explored. Her invaluable contributions underscore her dedication to effecting positive change and improving the lives of individuals and families across diverse communities.
Dr. Diaz's profound commitment to her heritage and community has positioned her as a sought-after advocate and leader in philanthropic endeavors. As a proud Hispanic American, she has been privileged to contribute her expertise to numerous philanthropic initiatives aimed at uplifting and empowering underserved communities. Her dedication extends beyond mere participation; she actively engages in research to address the unique challenges faced by the underserved Hispanic population in hospice and palliative care, striving to bridge gaps in access and quality of services.
Recognizing the critical need for culturally and linguistically competent mental health services, Dr. Diaz is a steadfast member of the Latino Mental Health Advocacy Concilio (LMHAC). In this capacity, she passionately champions initiatives aimed at advancing policy, research, and service delivery tailored to the specific needs of the Latino community in Los Angeles County. Her unwavering advocacy and dedication to ensuring equitable access to mental health resources have garnered widespread recognition, including an invitation to serve as a distinguished panelist at the esteemed Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) 2021 Fall Health Summit. Moderated by Dr. Leana Wen, CNN Medical Correspondent, this high-profile event focused on addressing critical issues surrounding mental health within the Hispanic community, showcasing Dr. Diaz's expertise and commitment to effecting positive change on a national scale.
Health and Mental Health
Dr. Diaz's tenure spanning from 2013 to 2023 as a beacon of support for bereaved families holds profound significance in the realm of Health and Mental Health. Through her compassionate guidance and unwavering dedication, she illuminated paths of healing for countless individuals navigating the depths of grief. During her tenure, Dr. Diaz served as a cornerstone of support for bereaved families across various platforms, including private hospice services and esteemed healthcare institutions like Emanate Health and its affiliates. Her role there extended beyond mere counseling; she fostered spaces of solace and understanding, providing grief counseling and facilitating group therapy sessions that offered solace in moments of profound loss. As the steward of Emanate Health's Bereavement Department, Dr. Diaz's leadership was instrumental in ensuring compliance with stringent State of California regulations, thereby upholding the highest standards of care for grieving families. She meticulously developed and supervised comprehensive care plans for approximately 500 families annually, demonstrating her commitment to personalized support and holistic healing.
Beyond her clinical endeavors, Dr. Diaz's impact resonates through her literary contributions. Her latest book release, "The Impossible Possibility," stands as a testament to her profound understanding of grief and bereavement. Published by Archway Publishing from Simon & Schuster in 2019, this invaluable resource offers compassionate guidance through the intricate journey of loss, providing solace and wisdom to those grappling with profound sorrow. Dr. Diaz's holistic expertise in spiritual care and bereavement has garnered widespread recognition, elevating her to esteemed platforms such as the World Boxing Council, where she has been invited as a panelist to share her insights on mental health and grief. This acknowledgment underscores her stature as a respected authority in the intersection of mental health and bereavement support, amplifying her influence and reaffirming her commitment to fostering healing and resilience in the face of loss.
Dr. Diaz's work for many years as an interfaith chaplain exemplifies her commitment to bridging divides and fostering understanding among diverse communities. With a deep dedication to spiritual care, she has worked tirelessly to provide support and guidance to individuals from various faith traditions and cultural backgrounds. Her role as a chaplain involves offering compassionate counsel, conducting interfaith services, and facilitating meaningful dialogues that promote unity and respect.
She has worked in a variety of settings, including hospitals, hospices, government, community leadership, and religious institutions, where her presence brings comfort to those facing life's most challenging moments. Her ability to connect with people from all walks of life, offering empathy and understanding, has made her a trusted and beloved figure in the communities she serves. Dr. Diaz's work extends beyond individual support; she actively engages in community outreach and education, fostering interfaith collaboration and understanding. She organizes and leads workshops, seminars, and discussion groups that explore the commonalities and differences among faith traditions, promoting mutual respect and cooperation. Through these efforts, she helps to build bridges between communities, encouraging a spirit of inclusivity and shared humanity.
In essence, Dr. Diaz's legacy transcends mere professional accolades; it embodies a profound dedication to addressing challenges we sometimes face in life and alleviating the burden of grief, offering solace, and nurturing hope in the hearts of those she serves. Her tireless advocacy for mental health and unwavering compassion for the bereaved leave an indelible mark on the landscape of healing, inspiring generations to come.
Care One Hospice | Tarzana, CA | February 2014 - January 2017
Dr. Diaz's commitment to community development transcended her role as an Interfaith Chaplain/Rabbi. With a compassionate heart and unwavering dedication, she extended invaluable support to patients and families grappling with the intricacies of grief, particularly within the vibrant communities of Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley. Her empathetic approach, coupled with a profound understanding of cultural nuances, made her an indispensable resource, especially for Holocaust survivors seeking solace and understanding.
Dr. Diaz assumed a pivotal leadership role in spearheading a robust Bereavement program. Drawing upon her expertise and insight, she meticulously crafted and oversaw initiatives that ensured individuals received comprehensive support during their most vulnerable moments. Through her tireless efforts, she fostered an environment of healing and compassion, empowering individuals to navigate their grief journey with resilience and dignity. Dr. Diaz's impact reverberated far beyond the confines of her professional title, leaving an indelible mark on the lives she touched and the communities she served.
Marketing/Community Development
Furthermore, Dr. Diaz's commitment to community development was exemplified in her participation in the 2016 annual Conference sponsored by CHAPCA (The California Hospice and Palliative Care Association). Her research and active engagement at the conference focused on understanding the unique needs of the underserved Hispanic Population in Hospice and Palliative Care. Dr. Diaz identified obstacles hindering access to essential services and highlighted the critical need for healthcare providers to enhance opportunities for learning and instruction about health, quality of life, and end- of-life care within this community. Through her advocacy and research, Dr. Diaz contributed to advancing awareness and improving the provision of culturally competent care to underserved populations, underscoring her commitment to community development and equitable access to healthcare resources.
World Boxing Council/Grief Counseling
As a grief counselor, she has been an occasional selected Speaker for the World Boxing Council:
Addressing the World Boxing Council boxers and leaders on the topics of grief and loss, leveraging expertise in mental health advocacy to provide valuable insights and support to athletes and communities affected by loss. https://wbcboxing.com/en/rising-from-defeat/?mc_cid=c5166ca07f
Vatican News
Dr. Diaz is an ordained Rabbi and was recently asked to join an unprecedented religious alliance that was forged in Mexico City with the purpose of capturing hearts and minds to halt the torrent of bloodshed in Ukraine, through the power of prayer. She was then quoted in the Vatican News. https://www.vaticannews.va/en/world/news/2022-03/prayers-mexico-religions-ukraine.html
Author
In addition to her scholarly pursuits, Dr. Diaz is a prolific author and journalist, with a remarkable collection of books that delve into the complexities of faith, identity, and coexistence. Her literary contributions include "The Impossible Possibility" (Archway Publishing from Simon & Schuster, 2019), "Coexisting in a Religious World of Divide" (WestBow Press, a division of Thomas Nelson and Zondervan, 2019), and "Wrestling for my Jewish Identity" (Friesen Press, 2017), among others. Her profound insights have transcended linguistic barriers, with works such as "El Aliento de Dios" and "El Sopro de Deus" being published in Spanish and Portuguese, respectively, and gaining widespread acclaim in South America. Dr. Diaz's literary legacy is a testament to her boundless creativity and unwavering dedication to fostering understanding and unity across diverse cultural and religious landscapes. Her words serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration, guiding readers on a transformative journey of self-discovery and spiritual enlightenment.
Author and Journalist
Books:
- The Impossible Possibility (believing is seeing) Archway Publishing from Simon & Schuster (2019)
- Coexisting in a Religious World of Divide –WestBow Press ,a division of Thomas Nelson and Zondervan, (2019)
- Wrestling for my Jewish Identity, Friesen Press, (2017)
- El Aliento de Dios - Caribe/Betania Editores/Thomas Nelson (Spanish, 2005)
- El Sopro de Deus - Proclama Editora (Portuguese) (2005) – Published in Brazil & available in South America
- The Prophetic Power of the Hour- (2001)
- The Breath of God – Destiny Image Publishers (2000)
Education
Graduate And Master’s program: Rabbinic And Religious Studies
Gratz College | MP, Pennsylvania | May 2013
Rabbinic Ordination
Jewish Spiritual Leadership Institute | New York, New York | August 2012
Doctor of Divinity: Theology
Covenant Life Theological Seminary, 2006 | Gainesville, Georgia
Masters Theological Studies
Covenant Life Theological Seminary, 2003 | Gainesville, Georgia
The Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel,
Certificate in Modern European Mysticism and Psychological Thought, Humanities/Humanistic Studies
Dr. Diaz's academic excellence was further recognized by Gratz College in Melrose Park, Pennsylvania, where she earned her degree in Jewish Studies (BAJS) and was bestowed with the esteemed L. Bernard Rabinowitz Memorial Award by the esteemed faculty for her exceptional leadership and dedicated service to Jewish institutions, both religious and secular.
Graduate And Master’s program: Rabbinic And Religious Studies
Gratz College | MP, Pennsylvania | May 2013
Rabbinic Ordination
Jewish Spiritual Leadership Institute | New York, New York | August 2012
Doctor of Divinity: Theology
Covenant Life Theological Seminary, 2006 | Gainesville, Georgia
Masters Theological Studies
Covenant Life Theological Seminary, 2003 | Gainesville, Georgia
The Hebrew University, Jerusalem, Israel,
Certificate in Modern European Mysticism and Psychological Thought, Humanities/Humanistic Studies
Dr. Diaz's academic excellence was further recognized by Gratz College in Melrose Park, Pennsylvania, where she earned her degree in Jewish Studies (BAJS) and was bestowed with the esteemed L. Bernard Rabinowitz Memorial Award by the esteemed faculty for her exceptional leadership and dedicated service to Jewish institutions, both religious and secular.
Honored and acknowledged (partial list)
§ Awarded by Faculty at Gratz College; the L. Bernard Rabinowitz Memorial Award for unique leadership commitment and service to Jewish Institutions both religious and secular. May 2013
§ Certificate of Recognition for work in preserving (Hebrew Castilian language) of Ladino , State of California Senate, Senator Dr. Ed Hernandez, 2013
§ Certificate of Recognition from the City of West Covina City Council for Accomplishments and Dedicated Service to the Community, Mayor Shelly Sanderson. 2013
§ Commendation from Los Angeles Mayor Garcetti for work in Jewish Education. 2013
§ Honored by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors for Building Community. (1986 and again in 2013)
§ Jerusalem, Israel: Special reception in honor of Rabbi Elisheva Irma Diaz, by Artist, Danielle Antibol and Tour leaders: awarded original painting and an ancient Torah Scroll in appreciation of contributions to Israel. 2010
§ Brazilian Government: Honored by the Legislative body for Social development (Tikkun Olam) and contributions made throughout Brazil from the business and religious communities to the slums. 1997- 2010
§ United States Congress, Outstanding Community Service, 21st Congressional District. 1983
Her Sephardic heritage
Dr. Diaz's rich heritage and scholarly pursuits have shaped her into a distinguished figure in the realm of cultural preservation and interfaith dialogue. As a proud Sephardic (Hispanic) Jew with a deep connection to the Holy Land, she has dedicated herself to fostering a greater understanding of Jewish history and culture.
Since the early nineties, Dr. Diaz has been at the forefront of facilitating enlightening study groups to Israel, offering participants a profound immersion into the historical and cultural tapestry of the region. Her expertise extends beyond mere facilitation; she is also renowned for delivering captivating lectures on the historical and cultural nuances of Israel, enriching the minds of all who attend.
In addition to her academic pursuits, Dr. Diaz is a prominent figure in the Los Angeles Jewish community, serving as the Vice President of the Kol Sephardic Choir (ROSE). Her passion for preserving Sephardic traditions and heritage shines through in her leadership, inspiring countless individuals to connect with their roots.
Further solidifying her commitment to preserving Jewish heritage, Dr. Diaz sits on the esteemed Board of Directors for the Society for Crypto Judaic Studies, an international academic association dedicated to fostering research, networking, and the exchange of information among scholars and descendants of Conversos. Her invaluable contributions to this esteemed organization have played a pivotal role in advancing the understanding and appreciation of Crypto-Jewish history and culture.
Dr. Diaz's dedication to education and cultural preservation is further exemplified by her role as the founder of Ayekah.org, a non-profit educational organization dedicated to promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding. Through innovative programming and community outreach, Ayekah.org serves as a beacon of hope for fostering unity and harmony among diverse faith traditions.
Her multifaceted identity extends beyond her scholarly pursuits; she is also a respected clergy member first ordained in 1986, and holding a rabbinic ordination since 2012. Her membership in the esteemed Union of Jewish Universalist (UJUC) further underscores her commitment to fostering inclusivity and unity within the Jewish community and beyond. As a clergy member, Dr. Diaz remains steadfast in her mission to bridge divides and foster unity among different faiths, exemplified by her groundbreaking work on "Coexisting in a Religious World of Divide." Her efforts have created a sacred space where individuals from diverse backgrounds can come together in unity, learning, and mutual respect.
Dr. Diaz's rich heritage and scholarly pursuits have shaped her into a distinguished figure in the realm of cultural preservation and interfaith dialogue. As a proud Sephardic (Hispanic) Jew with a deep connection to the Holy Land, she has dedicated herself to fostering a greater understanding of Jewish history and culture.
Since the early nineties, Dr. Diaz has been at the forefront of facilitating enlightening study groups to Israel, offering participants a profound immersion into the historical and cultural tapestry of the region. Her expertise extends beyond mere facilitation; she is also renowned for delivering captivating lectures on the historical and cultural nuances of Israel, enriching the minds of all who attend.
In addition to her academic pursuits, Dr. Diaz is a prominent figure in the Los Angeles Jewish community, serving as the Vice President of the Kol Sephardic Choir (ROSE). Her passion for preserving Sephardic traditions and heritage shines through in her leadership, inspiring countless individuals to connect with their roots.
Further solidifying her commitment to preserving Jewish heritage, Dr. Diaz sits on the esteemed Board of Directors for the Society for Crypto Judaic Studies, an international academic association dedicated to fostering research, networking, and the exchange of information among scholars and descendants of Conversos. Her invaluable contributions to this esteemed organization have played a pivotal role in advancing the understanding and appreciation of Crypto-Jewish history and culture.
Dr. Diaz's dedication to education and cultural preservation is further exemplified by her role as the founder of Ayekah.org, a non-profit educational organization dedicated to promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding. Through innovative programming and community outreach, Ayekah.org serves as a beacon of hope for fostering unity and harmony among diverse faith traditions.
Her multifaceted identity extends beyond her scholarly pursuits; she is also a respected clergy member first ordained in 1986, and holding a rabbinic ordination since 2012. Her membership in the esteemed Union of Jewish Universalist (UJUC) further underscores her commitment to fostering inclusivity and unity within the Jewish community and beyond. As a clergy member, Dr. Diaz remains steadfast in her mission to bridge divides and foster unity among different faiths, exemplified by her groundbreaking work on "Coexisting in a Religious World of Divide." Her efforts have created a sacred space where individuals from diverse backgrounds can come together in unity, learning, and mutual respect.
Visit Dr. Diaz's face book page: https://www.facebook.com/ElishevaAuthor
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The Society for Crypto- Judaic Studies:
The Society for Crypto-Judaic Studies was founded in 1991 as a multi-disciplinary academic and secular association that fosters research, networking of people and ideas, and the exchange of information, among scholars and descendants of conversos, regarding the historical and contemporary developments involving crypto-Jews of Iberian origins and other hidden Jewish communities around the world.
Her Personal Story
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Wrestling For My Jewish Identity
An Eclipse With Reality by Elisheva Irma Diaz What could possibly prompt a world-acclaimed respected Christian, pastor, author, and public speaker to embrace Judaism? And not just embrace it, but become a rabbi? Wrestling For My Jewish Identity: An Eclipse with Reality is the true story of Elisheva Irma Diaz’s journey to reclaim her Jewish heritage and the faith for which she believes she was born. It explores how a Crypto-Jew found her way out of Exile and reclaimed her blood legacy despite experiencing disappointment and ridicule from those who knew her as a Christian leader and prejudice from many in the Jewish community she joined.
Moreover, beyond being a personal account, Wrestling For My Jewish Identity also provides support for the Anusim, those with a Crypto-Jewish background – and practicing Jews – who are grappling with the following questions: “Who am I? Who have I become? Where am I? Where am I headed? Who am I supposed to be?” In the midst of a Sephardic revolutionary movement of Jews throughout the diaspora, and especially in Latin and South America, who are awakening to their heritage, Elisheva’s message persists: we must not ignore the calling of the blood that runs through our veins, our spiritual DNA, and as Jews, we must accept that “a Jew is a Jew” regardless of where they have landed in Exile. |
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Book Details
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Book Specifications
174 pages Black & White 6.0 x 9.0 inches |
ISBNs
978-1-5255-1475-3 eBook (epub, mobi, pdf) 978-1-5255-1474-6 Paperback 978-1-5255-1473-9 Hardcover |
Categories
Religion, Judaism Self-Help, Spiritual Religion, Faith |
Keywords
Crypto Jew, Anusim, Following Your Faith, Jewish Heritage, Hispanic Jew, Former Christian, Rabbi |
Bookstore
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Endorsements
Elisheva (Irma) Diaz is in my view one of the most dynamic Jewish leaders in the United States today. Her personal story is compelling, and the intensity of her faith is inspiring.
Dr. Joe M. Davis Ph.D., Harvard University in the field of medieval Jewish history and literature. His area of academic specialization is the cultural and intellectual history of Ashkenazic Jews in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. Gratz College Scholars Program, Jewish Studies
Elisheva (Irma) Diaz's book Wrestling For My Jewish Identity: An Eclipse with Reality is a testimony to the integrity, honesty and fearlessness of her journey as a descendant of B'nai Anusim. Through emunah (faith) and bitachon (trust) in G-d, Elisheva reaches through history to the core of her essence.
Dr. Vanessa Paloma Elbaz, Founder and Director, KHOYA: Jewish Morocco Sound Archive, Casablanca, Morocco, Hadassah Brandeis Institute, Research Associate, Women's Studies Research Center. Faculty of Music Research Associate, Peterhouse University of Cambridge, United Kingdom.
Elisheva (Irma) Diaz is an inspiration. I am always so impressed with her love for our traditions, her knowledge, her style and her commitment to her Jewish heritage. To sum it up, Elisheva is uniquely accomplished and a gift to humanity by G-d Himself. What a gem!
Rabbi Richard E. Perlman Member, Vice President: Vaad HaRabbonim of America, "American Board of Rabbis"
Elisheva Irma Diaz’s story, reads like a Hollywood script filled with drama, success, betrayal and the triumph of the spirit over all. A truly inspiring true story.
Ayala Or-El, Editor/Journalist at Yediot America, contributor to the Jewish Journal and Tribe Magazine
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