Tango, Tradition, and Togetherness: A Glimpse Into Buenos Aires’ Jewish Community

posted August 12, 2025 by Tara Silberg

It certainly takes two to tango, but it takes many more to run a Jewish community filled with the vibrancy, pride, and resilience like that of Buenos Aires, Argentina.

In June, I had the privilege of getting an up-close look at the Jewish community in Buenos Aires through a transformative journey with JDC Entwine. From dynamic programs engaging high school students, to initiatives for young adults, to senior living spaces designed with deep intentionality, I witnessed a beautiful tapestry of Jewish life rooted in values like chesed (kindness), arevut (mutual responsibility), and kehillah (community).

One of the most powerful parts of our trip was our visit to AMIA—a central institution of the Argentine Jewish community and the site of one of the most tragic terror attacks in the country’s history. In 1994, AMIA was bombed in a devastating act of violence that claimed the lives of dozens—Jews and non-Jews alike. And yet, what I saw there was not only a place rebuilt with bricks and mortar, but a community rebuilt with compassion, strength, and unwavering hope.

In his poem “Israel”, famous poet Jorge Luis Borges referred to the Jewish individual as “A man who’s a book,” which, when discussed among our group, led to numerous interpretations. Following our tour of AMIA, the line reminded me that much of society often views the Jewish people through a narrow lens—often as a monolith. Yet, for any person who has the pleasure of interacting with and learning about the Jewish community of Buenos Aires, we are, in reality, a multifaceted, vibrant, resilient people, with so much more than a story already written.

Later in the week, we visited L’dor V’dor, a senior residence whose name, meaning “from generation to generation,” perfectly encapsulates the ethos of arevut. We toured sunlit halls filled with over 300 older adults and engaged in heartfelt conversations that transcended language barriers and borders. As someone who has studied the benefits of intergenerational relationships, I was especially moved by the thoughtful ways this home fosters connection, dignity, and meaning among its residents. The warmth radiating from the staff and residents alike reminded me how vital it is to support Jewish communities around the world—not just at home.

The work that JDC is supporting in Buenos Aires is not just impressive—it’s essential. As someone deeply involved in Jewish communal life, I’ve seen firsthand how the relationships we build with one another serve as the very foundation of our ecosystem.

They are what nourish us, ground us, and motivate us to continue supporting the build of such vibrant communities.

This was my first journey with JDC Entwine, but it certainly won’t be my last. I return home inspired, full of gratitude, and thankful to JDC Entwine and all the local partners who made this trip not only possible, but unforgettable.

With gratitude,

Tara Silberg | Inside Jewish Argentina 2025