“We shared meals and stories and realized how much we had in common,” adds Emily. “We went shopping at the mall, visited the Orlando Science Center, went to an indoor trampoline spot, and played outside. Ana said she hadn’t seen her kids smile and sleep soundly like that in years. Tilly and Dani bonded over music and Moana . Youssef showed Adam soccer tricks. We all ate falafel and couscous.” After a week, Ana and her
Just Say Welcome , which will be released on September 9, can be found wherever books are sold. To learn more, visit EmilyRaij.com.
I think we can probably all be more welcoming
Author Emily Raij’s latest book, Just Say Welcome , is based on her family’s experience hosting a refugee family.
Emily also serves on the boards of Temple Israel and Kinneret Council on Aging, is a program director for Jewish Pavilion Senior Services, and is a representative on the Jewish Community Relations Council. “I think we can probably all be more welcoming in our daily lives,” says Emily, “and doing so can really improve our communities and relationships. It all starts with listening to people’s stories, sharing your own, and saying ‘Welcome.’ I honestly think it can be that simple.” in our daily lives and doing so can really improve our communities and relationships.”
children moved from Emily’s home into an apartment in Orlando, beginning their new lives here. Both kids graduated from high school, and Youssef joined the Army. Like Emily, Tilly has fond memories of the time her family spent with Ana, Dani, and Youssef. “The best thing about sharing our home was connecting with Dani,” says Tilly. “I looked up to her. It was really cool to have somebody in the house be like an older sister for a week.” In addition to her writing career, Emily is also deeply involved with her local Jewish community. “Our synagogue, Temple Israel, has been a place where my family felt welcome immediately and where we’ve been able to build community,” she says.
– Emily Raij
17 FALL 2025 | J LIFE
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