In what is believed to be a first for an Orthodox synagogue in Canada, two women have been elected to the executive of the board of the Spanish and Portuguese congregation in this city, it was reported in The Canadian Jewish News. Miriam Regenstreif was elected treasurer and Claire Chitayat was elected a vice-president.
Mrs. Regenstreif has been associated with the congregation since her childhood and has been a member of the board for 15 years. In addition to her synagogual activities; which include being a past president of its sisterhood, she is a founder of ORT and B’nai B’rith Women here She has also been active in Hadassah, Young Judea, and the women’s branch of the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America.
“The Spanish and Portuguese has been my second home.” she was quoted as saying. “I really appreciate what the men have done. I have a big job ahead of me and I am going to do the best I can.”
Mrs. Chitayat, a native of Iraq, is a past president of the synagogue’s sisterhood. Commenting on her appointment, she said: “For me it has a double significance to be given the position–both as a woman and as a Jew from the Middle East. It makes me feel very good.” Lean Brownstein, who was reelected president, told The Canadian Jewish News: “We feel the two women are very capable. There has to be a first time.”
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