Originally from the Pikesville area, Jodie Zisow-McClean moved to Baltimore City in 1998 after graduating from Goucher College. An 8th grade Spanish teacher in the Baltimore City public school system, she has been a committed volunteer, focusing on social justice work.
This year, Jodie became the first LGBTQ Community Connector with The Macks Center for Jewish Education (CJE), an agency of The Associated.
Jodie became a Community Connector this past September, joining other first year connectors at a challenging time, with social distancing policies due to the COVID-19 pandemic severely limiting the opportunity for in-person gatherings. Even so, Jodie has still found ways to build a network of Jewish Families right in her own neighborhood and local community.
Why Did You Decide to Become a Community Connector?
I decided to be a Connector because community building is crucial for building movements towards social justice. Being a part of this network has pushed me to think of creative ways to stay connected with my parent friends and my broader community, especially during a time when it often feels easier to retreat.
During the pandemic, I have been focusing on having one-on-one conversation with other LGBTQ Jewish parents and parents who are committed to anti-racist education and action.
