A long-standing Miami interfaith group has taken on a new name. Here’s why
An interfaith group with a lengthy history in the Miami-Dade community is rebranding to reflect the area’s vibrancy and celebrate its diversity.
The Miami Coalition of Christian and Jews announced Wednesday it will be changing its name to Mosiac Miami in an effort to be more inclusive to the South Florida community. The organization began as an interfaith effort focused on empowering youth, leaders and community members.
Despite the name change, the group will continue as a faith-based coalition while promoting understanding, respect and compassion.
“Miami is today a world-class destination because we are a community that cares about ensuring opportunity for all, regardless of where we came from,” Alex Fraser, chair of the board of directors, said in a statement. “That’s a common thread that ties together our city.”
The new name, Fraser said, reflects the organization’s mission moving forward.
“A mosaic is a work of art created by combining uniquely different pieces into a cohesive and beautiful whole,” he said. “We believe the name “Mosaic Miami” captures that defining characteristic of our community, while capturing our mission, respecting our 88-year legacy, and positioning us for the decades to come.”
Every year, the group honors partners who help it achieve its mission, which started in 1935 when it was formed to battle racism, support equality during the Civil Rights Movement and help the community heal. Some South Floridians recognized at the organization’s silver medallion humanitarian dinner last weekend include:
▪ Matt Gorson, senior chair of Greenberg Traurig
▪ Ghislaine Gouraige, partner at New Edge Wealth
▪ Dr. Mohsin Jaffer and Fauzia Jaffer, founders of the Mohsin and Fauzia Jaffer Center for Muslim World Studies at Florida International University and Miami Dade College
▪ Teresa Valdes-Fauli Weintraub, managing director with Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith, Inc.
▪ Rabbi Robyn Fisher of Beth Or
