About the Author
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Biographical sketch Dr. Irma Elizabeth Diaz (also known as author Elisheva Irma Diaz) is a born-and-raised Angeleno. She is an international author, public speaker, and lecturer whose holistic and inspirational communication style has helped nurture individuals facing spiritual, mental, and emotional challenges. For more than 25 years, she has been called upon to address diverse audiences, including educators, clergy, physicians, law enforcement professionals, business leaders, and government officials. Her work has taken her throughout South America, Europe, Israel, and Asia, including India. From 1997 through 2011, the government of Brazil hosted her annually, where she was given a prominent voice through national media outlets and invited to participate in scheduled speaking engagements with members of parliament and representatives connected to the United Nations. In addition to her speaking and media work, Dr. Diaz collaborated with her team in underserved communities and slums throughout Brazil, supporting families and orphanages in efforts to rescue infants and children from the streets. Through these initiatives, she helped provide critical mental, emotional, and spiritual support aimed at stabilizing and restoring the lives of vulnerable families. |
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University of La Verne – Mental Health Consortium Consultant - Present - Project based
Dr. Irma Elisheva Diaz currently serves as a Consultant to the University of La Verne, supporting the continued development of the Mental Health Consortium under the Napolitano Legacy Initiative for Mental Health Equity. In this role, she provides strategic guidance in stakeholder engagement, program development, and community partnership building.
Drawing from her prior leadership as Health and Mental Health Liaison in the U.S. House of Representatives, Dr. Diaz contributes to the design and coordination of regional mental health initiatives that bring together public agencies, healthcare leaders, educators, and community-based organizations. Her work focuses on advancing mental health equity, strengthening cross-sector collaboration, and ensuring that diverse community voices are represented in program development and policy dialogue.
Dr. Diaz plays an active role in shaping key initiatives, including multi-week virtual speaker series, community engagement strategies, and long-term planning efforts that support the sustainability and impact of the Consortium. Her consulting work reflects a continued commitment to bridging policy, community leadership, and mental health advocacy.
Panelist for the U.S. House of Representatives
Present | Project-Based
Dr. Irma Elizabeth Diaz is recognized as a distinguished expert in public service and constituent relations. Her extensive experience and practical insight have led to repeated invitations from the Chief Administrative Officer of the U.S. House of Representatives.
She serves as a trusted panelist in the Congressional Leadership Learning and Development Program, commonly known as the “Coach Program,” where she trains chiefs of staff, managers, and congressional teams on essential topics related to effective leadership and public engagement.
In this role, Dr. Diaz provides specialized guidance on navigating high-pressure interactions, including strategies for managing irate callers with professionalism, diplomacy, and emotional intelligence. Her work in de-escalation—particularly in situations involving heightened tension or potential risk—reflects her commitment to safety, communication, and responsible public service.
Dr. Diaz also offers critical insight into the unique challenges faced by congressional staff as they engage with diverse and often complex constituent needs. Her trainings equip participants with practical tools, communication strategies, and resilience-based approaches that support both effectiveness and well-being in demanding roles.
Through her ongoing contributions, she continues to strengthen the capacity of congressional teams to serve with clarity, compassion, and professionalism.
Dr. Irma Elisheva Diaz currently serves as a Consultant to the University of La Verne, supporting the continued development of the Mental Health Consortium under the Napolitano Legacy Initiative for Mental Health Equity. In this role, she provides strategic guidance in stakeholder engagement, program development, and community partnership building.
Drawing from her prior leadership as Health and Mental Health Liaison in the U.S. House of Representatives, Dr. Diaz contributes to the design and coordination of regional mental health initiatives that bring together public agencies, healthcare leaders, educators, and community-based organizations. Her work focuses on advancing mental health equity, strengthening cross-sector collaboration, and ensuring that diverse community voices are represented in program development and policy dialogue.
Dr. Diaz plays an active role in shaping key initiatives, including multi-week virtual speaker series, community engagement strategies, and long-term planning efforts that support the sustainability and impact of the Consortium. Her consulting work reflects a continued commitment to bridging policy, community leadership, and mental health advocacy.
Panelist for the U.S. House of Representatives
Present | Project-Based
Dr. Irma Elizabeth Diaz is recognized as a distinguished expert in public service and constituent relations. Her extensive experience and practical insight have led to repeated invitations from the Chief Administrative Officer of the U.S. House of Representatives.
She serves as a trusted panelist in the Congressional Leadership Learning and Development Program, commonly known as the “Coach Program,” where she trains chiefs of staff, managers, and congressional teams on essential topics related to effective leadership and public engagement.
In this role, Dr. Diaz provides specialized guidance on navigating high-pressure interactions, including strategies for managing irate callers with professionalism, diplomacy, and emotional intelligence. Her work in de-escalation—particularly in situations involving heightened tension or potential risk—reflects her commitment to safety, communication, and responsible public service.
Dr. Diaz also offers critical insight into the unique challenges faced by congressional staff as they engage with diverse and often complex constituent needs. Her trainings equip participants with practical tools, communication strategies, and resilience-based approaches that support both effectiveness and well-being in demanding roles.
Through her ongoing contributions, she continues to strengthen the capacity of congressional teams to serve with clarity, compassion, and professionalism.
Government Service
In January 2020, Dr. Irma Elizabeth Diaz joined the staff of Congresswoman Grace Napolitano as Health and Mental Health Liaison. In this role, she oversaw public health initiatives and managed the Congresswoman’s Mental Health Consortium, a regional platform dedicated to advancing behavioral health awareness, policy dialogue, and community collaboration.
As lead for the Mental Health Consortium, Dr. Diaz facilitated strategic engagement among a diverse network of mental and behavioral health leaders across the region. Through structured roundtable discussions and convenings, she brought together first responders, educators, law enforcement professionals, healthcare providers, business leaders, and clergy to exchange insights, identify service gaps, and inform policy direction.
Her leadership extended beyond convening stakeholders. Dr. Diaz actively engaged grassroots organizations serving low-income and vulnerable populations, ensuring that community-based perspectives were represented in broader mental health discussions. Her work contributed to amplifying voices often underrepresented in policy spaces, particularly in the context of stigma, trauma, and the disproportionate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Known for her collaborative and community-centered approach, Dr. Diaz fostered meaningful partnerships across sectors, strengthening communication between public agencies and community organizations. Her ability to bridge diverse perspectives and mobilize collective action positioned her as a key contributor to regional mental health advocacy and public health engagement.
Media & National Engagement
Dr. Irma Elizabeth Diaz has been recognized for her leadership and expertise in moderating and contributing to high-level national conversations on mental health. In May 2020, she was honored to moderate a significant dialogue alongside Dr. Phil McGraw, convened for Congresswoman Grace Napolitano-CA and Congressman John Katko-NY. This event focused on children’s mental health, suicide prevention, and the far-reaching impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through her facilitation, Dr. Diaz guided a thoughtful and solutions-oriented discussion, ensuring that diverse perspectives were represented and meaningful dialogue was advanced.
In recognition of her expertise, Dr. Diaz was also invited to serve as a panelist at the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) 2021 Fall Health Summit. Moderated by CNN Correspondent Dr. Leana Wen. This national forum addressed pressing mental health challenges within the Hispanic community. Dr. Diaz contributed insights focused on culturally and linguistically competent care, emphasizing practical strategies to improve access, engagement, and outcomes for underserved populations.
In addition to her national engagements, Dr. Diaz remains an active advocate for community-based and philanthropic initiatives. As a proud Hispanic American, she has contributed her expertise to efforts aimed at strengthening support systems and expanding opportunities for underserved communities, with a particular focus on mental health awareness and equity.
Soul Synergy Network – Wellness Solutions Podcast - Present
For more information, visit: www.soulsynergynetwork.com
The Soul Synergy Network’s Wellness Solutions Podcast offers a holistic approach to healing—addressing the mind, body, and spirit. Rooted in the belief that true wellness occurs on every level, the podcast provides practical tools and reflective insights designed to restore balance, strengthen resilience, and renew a sense of purpose and hope.
A central focus of the podcast is grief support. Grief touches every life—whether through the loss of a loved one, significant life transitions, or the quiet weight of accumulated sorrow. These experiences can leave individuals feeling overwhelmed, disoriented, and uncertain about how to move forward.
In response, Dr. Irma Elizabeth Diaz created An Outreach to the Brokenhearted, a dedicated series within the podcast that offers a safe and compassionate space for those navigating the grief journey. Through heartfelt conversations, guided reflections, and practical support, this series provides comfort, clarity, and encouragement for individuals seeking healing.
Whether one is actively grieving or simply seeking deeper soul care, An Outreach to the Brokenhearted walks alongside listeners with empathy, wisdom, and accessible tools for restoration.
Health and Mental Health Leadership
Dr. Irma Elisheva Diaz continues to provide compassionate spiritual care and grief support to patients and families navigating the complexities of terminal illness and end-of-life transitions. Her work reflects a deep commitment to holistic care—honoring both the emotional and spiritual dimensions of healing.
From 2013 to 2023, Dr. Diaz established herself as a respected leader in health and mental health, offering support across private hospice services and healthcare systems, including Emanate Health and its affiliates. As Manager of the Bereavement Department at Emanate Health, she provided direct counseling while developing and overseeing comprehensive bereavement programs that created spaces of dignity, solace, and meaningful support for individuals and families experiencing profound loss.
She designed and facilitated grief support groups, fostering safe environments for communal healing and reflection. Her leadership ensured compliance with California healthcare regulations while maintaining a standard of care that was both clinically sound and spiritually grounded. Overseeing approximately 500 families annually, Dr. Diaz implemented personalized, culturally responsive care plans that addressed the unique needs of each family.
Dr. Diaz currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Center for Integrated Family Health Services in Covina, California, an organization dedicated to promoting the emotional and physical well-being of children and families within the community.
VITAS Healthcare – Interfaith Chaplain & Bereavement Specialist - Present
Dr. Irma Elisheva Diaz currently serves as an Interfaith Chaplain and Bereavement Specialist with VITAS Healthcare, where she provides compassionate spiritual care and grief support to patients and families navigating serious illness and end-of-life transitions. In this role, Dr. Diaz supports individuals and families from diverse cultural and faith backgrounds, offering presence, guidance, and meaning-centered care during some of life’s most vulnerable moments. Her work includes bedside spiritual support, anticipatory grief counseling, bereavement follow-up, and facilitation of memorial and healing-centered gatherings. She also contributes to interdisciplinary team collaboration, providing insight into the emotional, spiritual, and cultural needs of patients and families. Through staff support, education, and community outreach, Dr. Diaz helps strengthen a holistic approach to care that honors dignity, compassion, and whole-person well-being. Her work at VITAS reflects a continued commitment to integrating clinical excellence with spiritual care, ensuring that individuals and families are supported not only medically, but emotionally and spiritually throughout the continuum of care.
Hospice & Community Leadership
During her tenure at Care One Hospice in Tarzana, California (2014–2017), Dr. Diaz provided compassionate support to patients and families, particularly within the diverse communities of Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley. Her culturally sensitive approach was especially meaningful to Holocaust survivors and others navigating complex grief.
She also played a key leadership role in developing and overseeing a comprehensive bereavement program, ensuring that individuals received consistent, thoughtful, and holistic support. Her work fostered environments of healing and resilience, empowering individuals to navigate grief with dignity and strength.
Interfaith Spiritual Care
As an interfaith chaplain, Dr. Diaz is deeply committed to fostering understanding and connection across diverse faith traditions and cultural backgrounds. She has served in hospitals, hospices, government settings, community organizations, and religious institutions, offering compassionate guidance during life’s most challenging moments.
Her work includes providing spiritual counsel, conducting interfaith services, and facilitating meaningful dialogue that promotes unity, respect, and shared humanity. Through workshops, seminars, and community engagement, she creates spaces where individuals can explore both the commonalities and distinctions among faith traditions with mutual respect and openness.
Dr. Diaz’s ability to connect with individuals from all walks of life has made her a trusted presence in the communities she serves. Her work extends beyond individual care to community education and outreach, strengthening interfaith collaboration and cultural understanding.
She is also a member of the First Responder Advisory Committee of the Spiritual Care Association (New York) and a member of the Union of Jewish Universalism Clergy.
Global Recognition & Speaking
Dr. Diaz’s expertise in grief counseling and interfaith spiritual care has led to invitations to speak on international platforms, including the World Boxing Council, where she has frequently been selected as a panelist addressing mental health and grief.
Publications & Thought Leadership
Dr. Diaz is also an accomplished author whose work explores themes of grief, identity, spirituality, and healing. Her publications include:
In January 2020, Dr. Irma Elizabeth Diaz joined the staff of Congresswoman Grace Napolitano as Health and Mental Health Liaison. In this role, she oversaw public health initiatives and managed the Congresswoman’s Mental Health Consortium, a regional platform dedicated to advancing behavioral health awareness, policy dialogue, and community collaboration.
As lead for the Mental Health Consortium, Dr. Diaz facilitated strategic engagement among a diverse network of mental and behavioral health leaders across the region. Through structured roundtable discussions and convenings, she brought together first responders, educators, law enforcement professionals, healthcare providers, business leaders, and clergy to exchange insights, identify service gaps, and inform policy direction.
Her leadership extended beyond convening stakeholders. Dr. Diaz actively engaged grassroots organizations serving low-income and vulnerable populations, ensuring that community-based perspectives were represented in broader mental health discussions. Her work contributed to amplifying voices often underrepresented in policy spaces, particularly in the context of stigma, trauma, and the disproportionate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Known for her collaborative and community-centered approach, Dr. Diaz fostered meaningful partnerships across sectors, strengthening communication between public agencies and community organizations. Her ability to bridge diverse perspectives and mobilize collective action positioned her as a key contributor to regional mental health advocacy and public health engagement.
Media & National Engagement
Dr. Irma Elizabeth Diaz has been recognized for her leadership and expertise in moderating and contributing to high-level national conversations on mental health. In May 2020, she was honored to moderate a significant dialogue alongside Dr. Phil McGraw, convened for Congresswoman Grace Napolitano-CA and Congressman John Katko-NY. This event focused on children’s mental health, suicide prevention, and the far-reaching impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Through her facilitation, Dr. Diaz guided a thoughtful and solutions-oriented discussion, ensuring that diverse perspectives were represented and meaningful dialogue was advanced.
In recognition of her expertise, Dr. Diaz was also invited to serve as a panelist at the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) 2021 Fall Health Summit. Moderated by CNN Correspondent Dr. Leana Wen. This national forum addressed pressing mental health challenges within the Hispanic community. Dr. Diaz contributed insights focused on culturally and linguistically competent care, emphasizing practical strategies to improve access, engagement, and outcomes for underserved populations.
In addition to her national engagements, Dr. Diaz remains an active advocate for community-based and philanthropic initiatives. As a proud Hispanic American, she has contributed her expertise to efforts aimed at strengthening support systems and expanding opportunities for underserved communities, with a particular focus on mental health awareness and equity.
Soul Synergy Network – Wellness Solutions Podcast - Present
For more information, visit: www.soulsynergynetwork.com
The Soul Synergy Network’s Wellness Solutions Podcast offers a holistic approach to healing—addressing the mind, body, and spirit. Rooted in the belief that true wellness occurs on every level, the podcast provides practical tools and reflective insights designed to restore balance, strengthen resilience, and renew a sense of purpose and hope.
A central focus of the podcast is grief support. Grief touches every life—whether through the loss of a loved one, significant life transitions, or the quiet weight of accumulated sorrow. These experiences can leave individuals feeling overwhelmed, disoriented, and uncertain about how to move forward.
In response, Dr. Irma Elizabeth Diaz created An Outreach to the Brokenhearted, a dedicated series within the podcast that offers a safe and compassionate space for those navigating the grief journey. Through heartfelt conversations, guided reflections, and practical support, this series provides comfort, clarity, and encouragement for individuals seeking healing.
Whether one is actively grieving or simply seeking deeper soul care, An Outreach to the Brokenhearted walks alongside listeners with empathy, wisdom, and accessible tools for restoration.
Health and Mental Health Leadership
Dr. Irma Elisheva Diaz continues to provide compassionate spiritual care and grief support to patients and families navigating the complexities of terminal illness and end-of-life transitions. Her work reflects a deep commitment to holistic care—honoring both the emotional and spiritual dimensions of healing.
From 2013 to 2023, Dr. Diaz established herself as a respected leader in health and mental health, offering support across private hospice services and healthcare systems, including Emanate Health and its affiliates. As Manager of the Bereavement Department at Emanate Health, she provided direct counseling while developing and overseeing comprehensive bereavement programs that created spaces of dignity, solace, and meaningful support for individuals and families experiencing profound loss.
She designed and facilitated grief support groups, fostering safe environments for communal healing and reflection. Her leadership ensured compliance with California healthcare regulations while maintaining a standard of care that was both clinically sound and spiritually grounded. Overseeing approximately 500 families annually, Dr. Diaz implemented personalized, culturally responsive care plans that addressed the unique needs of each family.
Dr. Diaz currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Center for Integrated Family Health Services in Covina, California, an organization dedicated to promoting the emotional and physical well-being of children and families within the community.
VITAS Healthcare – Interfaith Chaplain & Bereavement Specialist - Present
Dr. Irma Elisheva Diaz currently serves as an Interfaith Chaplain and Bereavement Specialist with VITAS Healthcare, where she provides compassionate spiritual care and grief support to patients and families navigating serious illness and end-of-life transitions. In this role, Dr. Diaz supports individuals and families from diverse cultural and faith backgrounds, offering presence, guidance, and meaning-centered care during some of life’s most vulnerable moments. Her work includes bedside spiritual support, anticipatory grief counseling, bereavement follow-up, and facilitation of memorial and healing-centered gatherings. She also contributes to interdisciplinary team collaboration, providing insight into the emotional, spiritual, and cultural needs of patients and families. Through staff support, education, and community outreach, Dr. Diaz helps strengthen a holistic approach to care that honors dignity, compassion, and whole-person well-being. Her work at VITAS reflects a continued commitment to integrating clinical excellence with spiritual care, ensuring that individuals and families are supported not only medically, but emotionally and spiritually throughout the continuum of care.
Hospice & Community Leadership
During her tenure at Care One Hospice in Tarzana, California (2014–2017), Dr. Diaz provided compassionate support to patients and families, particularly within the diverse communities of Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley. Her culturally sensitive approach was especially meaningful to Holocaust survivors and others navigating complex grief.
She also played a key leadership role in developing and overseeing a comprehensive bereavement program, ensuring that individuals received consistent, thoughtful, and holistic support. Her work fostered environments of healing and resilience, empowering individuals to navigate grief with dignity and strength.
Interfaith Spiritual Care
As an interfaith chaplain, Dr. Diaz is deeply committed to fostering understanding and connection across diverse faith traditions and cultural backgrounds. She has served in hospitals, hospices, government settings, community organizations, and religious institutions, offering compassionate guidance during life’s most challenging moments.
Her work includes providing spiritual counsel, conducting interfaith services, and facilitating meaningful dialogue that promotes unity, respect, and shared humanity. Through workshops, seminars, and community engagement, she creates spaces where individuals can explore both the commonalities and distinctions among faith traditions with mutual respect and openness.
Dr. Diaz’s ability to connect with individuals from all walks of life has made her a trusted presence in the communities she serves. Her work extends beyond individual care to community education and outreach, strengthening interfaith collaboration and cultural understanding.
She is also a member of the First Responder Advisory Committee of the Spiritual Care Association (New York) and a member of the Union of Jewish Universalism Clergy.
Global Recognition & Speaking
Dr. Diaz’s expertise in grief counseling and interfaith spiritual care has led to invitations to speak on international platforms, including the World Boxing Council, where she has frequently been selected as a panelist addressing mental health and grief.
Publications & Thought Leadership
Dr. Diaz is also an accomplished author whose work explores themes of grief, identity, spirituality, and healing. Her publications include:
- The Impossible Possibility (Archway Publishing, Simon & Schuster, 2019)
- Coexisting in a Religious World of Divide (WestBow Press, 2019)
- Wrestling for My Jewish Identity (Friesen Press, 2017)
- El Aliento de Dios (Spanish, 2005)
- El Sopro de Deus (Portuguese, 2005)
- The Prophetic Power of the Hour (2001)
- The Breath of God (Destiny Image Publishers, 2000)
Education
Graduate Studies in Rabbinic and Religious Studies
Gratz College | May 2013
Rabbinic Ordination
Jewish Spiritual Leadership Institute | August 2012
Doctor of Divinity (Theology)
Covenant Life Theological Seminary | 2006
Master of Theological Studies
Covenant Life Theological Seminary | 2003
Certificate in Modern European Mysticism and Psychological Thought (Humanities)
Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Dr. Diaz’s academic achievements also include a Bachelor of Arts in Jewish Studies (BAJS) from Gratz College, where she was honored with the L. Bernard Rabinowitz Memorial Award. This distinction was awarded in recognition of her exceptional leadership and dedicated service to Jewish institutions in both religious and secular contexts.
Graduate Studies in Rabbinic and Religious Studies
Gratz College | May 2013
Rabbinic Ordination
Jewish Spiritual Leadership Institute | August 2012
Doctor of Divinity (Theology)
Covenant Life Theological Seminary | 2006
Master of Theological Studies
Covenant Life Theological Seminary | 2003
Certificate in Modern European Mysticism and Psychological Thought (Humanities)
Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Dr. Diaz’s academic achievements also include a Bachelor of Arts in Jewish Studies (BAJS) from Gratz College, where she was honored with the L. Bernard Rabinowitz Memorial Award. This distinction was awarded in recognition of her exceptional leadership and dedicated service to Jewish institutions in both religious and secular contexts.
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2026 - Crisis & Trauma Specialist
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Websites
Honors and Recognitions (Selected)
- L. Bernard Rabinowitz Memorial Award for Leadership and Service
Awarded by the Faculty of Gratz College, Melrose Park, PA, in recognition of exceptional leadership and dedicated service to Jewish institutions, both religious and secular (May 2013) - Certificate of Recognition – Preservation of Ladino (Hebrew-Castilian Language)
Presented by the California State Senate, Senator Dr. Ed Hernandez (2013) - Certificate of Recognition – Community Service and Leadership
City of West Covina, Office of the Mayor (Mayor Shelly Sanderson) (2013) - Commendation for Contributions to Jewish Education
Office of the Mayor of Los Angeles, Mayor Eric Garcetti (2013) - Recognition for Building Community
Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors (1986; honored again in 2013) - Special Honor and Presentation – Jerusalem, Israel
Recognized in a special reception by artist Danielle Antibol and regional tour leadership; awarded an original painting and an ancient Torah scroll in appreciation of contributions to Israel (2010) - Legislative Honor for Social Development (Tikkun Olam)
Recognized by the Brazilian government’s legislative body for sustained contributions to social development and humanitarian work in underserved communities (1997–2010) - Outstanding Community Service Award
United States Congress, 21st Congressional District (1983)
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 Sephardic heritage
Dr. Diaz's rich heritage and scholarly pursuits have established her as a distinguished leader in cultural preservation, interfaith dialogue, and the facilitation of Crypto-Jews’ return to their Jewish roots. A proud Sephardic (Hispanic) Jew with a profound connection to the Holy Land, Dr. Diaz has devoted her life to fostering a greater understanding of Jewish history and culture while actively guiding those exploring their Jewish heritage. Her mission extends to educating and equipping the Jewish community to welcome and support individuals returning to their ancestral faith.
Since the early 1990s, Dr. Diaz has led study groups to Israel, providing participants with a deeply immersive experience into the historical and cultural richness of the region. As an expert lecturer, she captivates audiences with her insights on Israel's complex historical and cultural narratives, inspiring a deeper appreciation of its enduring legacy.
Dr. Diaz is an active leader in the Los Angeles Jewish community, serving as Vice President of the Kol Sephardic Choir (ROSE). Through her leadership, she preserves Sephardic traditions and heritage, inspiring individuals to connect with their roots. She is also frequently invited to speak at synagogues and Jewish organizations seeking to learn about Crypto-Jews, their history, and the unique challenges faced by those returning to Judaism.
Furthering her commitment to the preservation and understanding of Jewish heritage, Dr. Diaz sits on the Board of Directors for the Society for Crypto Judaic Studies, an international academic organization dedicated to fostering research, networking, and education among scholars and descendants of Conversos. Her work has been instrumental in advancing knowledge of Crypto-Jewish history and culture.
As the founder of Ayekah.org, a non-profit dedicated to interfaith education and dialogue, Dr. Diaz creates innovative programs and outreach initiatives aimed at fostering unity and understanding among diverse communities. Her efforts have significantly contributed to creating spaces of mutual respect and collaboration.
Dr. Diaz's commitment to inclusivity extends to her role as clergy. Ordained in 1986 and holding rabbinic ordination since 2012, she is a member of the progressive Union of Jewish Universalists (UJUC). Through her groundbreaking work, including "Coexisting in a Religious World of Divide," Dr. Diaz remains steadfast in her mission to bridge divides and foster unity within the Jewish community and beyond. Her dedication to helping Crypto-Jews return to their heritage exemplifies her passion for creating a welcoming, inclusive, and spiritually enriching environment for all.
Dr. Diaz's rich heritage and scholarly pursuits have established her as a distinguished leader in cultural preservation, interfaith dialogue, and the facilitation of Crypto-Jews’ return to their Jewish roots. A proud Sephardic (Hispanic) Jew with a profound connection to the Holy Land, Dr. Diaz has devoted her life to fostering a greater understanding of Jewish history and culture while actively guiding those exploring their Jewish heritage. Her mission extends to educating and equipping the Jewish community to welcome and support individuals returning to their ancestral faith.
Since the early 1990s, Dr. Diaz has led study groups to Israel, providing participants with a deeply immersive experience into the historical and cultural richness of the region. As an expert lecturer, she captivates audiences with her insights on Israel's complex historical and cultural narratives, inspiring a deeper appreciation of its enduring legacy.
Dr. Diaz is an active leader in the Los Angeles Jewish community, serving as Vice President of the Kol Sephardic Choir (ROSE). Through her leadership, she preserves Sephardic traditions and heritage, inspiring individuals to connect with their roots. She is also frequently invited to speak at synagogues and Jewish organizations seeking to learn about Crypto-Jews, their history, and the unique challenges faced by those returning to Judaism.
Furthering her commitment to the preservation and understanding of Jewish heritage, Dr. Diaz sits on the Board of Directors for the Society for Crypto Judaic Studies, an international academic organization dedicated to fostering research, networking, and education among scholars and descendants of Conversos. Her work has been instrumental in advancing knowledge of Crypto-Jewish history and culture.
As the founder of Ayekah.org, a non-profit dedicated to interfaith education and dialogue, Dr. Diaz creates innovative programs and outreach initiatives aimed at fostering unity and understanding among diverse communities. Her efforts have significantly contributed to creating spaces of mutual respect and collaboration.
Dr. Diaz's commitment to inclusivity extends to her role as clergy. Ordained in 1986 and holding rabbinic ordination since 2012, she is a member of the progressive Union of Jewish Universalists (UJUC). Through her groundbreaking work, including "Coexisting in a Religious World of Divide," Dr. Diaz remains steadfast in her mission to bridge divides and foster unity within the Jewish community and beyond. Her dedication to helping Crypto-Jews return to their heritage exemplifies her passion for creating a welcoming, inclusive, and spiritually enriching environment for all.
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
Get your copy from any of the following retailers...
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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