The Jewish Federation of Ottawa is thrilled to introduce Ethan Rode, the new Communications and Social Media Specialist. Federation is dedicated to fostering a strong and vibrant Jewish community in Ottawa, and Ethan’s role is pivotal in enhancing engagement both online and through the Ottawa Jewish E-Bulletin, Federation’s biweekly digital publication.

Originally from Philadelphia, Ethan has been living in Ottawa for the past two and a half years, following his studies at Queen’s University in Kingston. With a strong background in writing and social media management, he is ready to help Federation expand its reach and strengthen its connection with the community.

“Now, more than ever, it’s important that Federation is there for all people in the Ottawa Jewish community, and that includes our online presence,” says Rode. “In engaging more and catering online spaces such as the Ottawa Jewish Helps Facebook group, or just improving our social media presence in general, we are doing our community a great service in providing them a safe space.”

In the aftermath of October 7, the internet has become an increasingly hostile space for Jews. Ethan aims to counter this by ensuring Jewish Ottawa’s social media platforms remain safe, inclusive, and welcoming for people of all ages to engage with community events, holidays, and culture.

“Online Jewish spaces have been under attack continuously for as long as they’ve existed, but now it has gotten significantly worse within the last year. I hope that we can continue being a voice of hope and resilience for our community in what is often a cesspool of antisemitism online,” he explains.

While social media is a key focus of Ethan’s work, he will also contribute to the Ottawa Jewish E-Bulletin, writing engaging news stories about important local issues while exploring innovative ways to attract readers from a broader age range.

“Sadly, many publications are not read as often by people in my generation, but I am very grateful to be joining a dynamic team that will brainstorm together on how to continue engaging younger readers.”

Among Ethan’s ideas for the E-Bulletin are initiatives like inviting young writers to contribute stories and introducing more interactive content, such as quizzes and games that tie into Jewish traditions and holidays.

“We see how Wordle and Connections have taken the world by storm, even among people who don’t read the New York Times. It could be fun to create a Jewish Wordle, or continue with our Yiddish and Hebrew quizzes, or different puzzles and games themed around various holidays and festivals,” says Rode.

As he settles into his new role, Ethan is eager to connect with the community and welcomes ideas for online engagement or story suggestions for the E-Bulletin.

If you have recommendations or requests, feel free to email Ethan at erode@jewishottawa.com. The Jewish Federation of Ottawa looks forward to the creativity and passion he will bring to his role.