The Nevas Family's Enduring Passover Tradition: A Celebration of Freedom, Justice, and Community

For 135 years, the descendants of Morris and Ethel Navasky, including the Nevas and Price families, have gathered around the Seder table to retell the story of the Jewish people's journey towards freedom. This remarkable tradition, which began in 1891, has been a testament to the family's commitment to their heritage and Jewish values.

This year's Seder, hosted by Daniel and Lisa Price (the son and daughter-in-law of Jo-Ann Nevas Price and Michael Price), marked the next chapter in the family's tradition. With nearly 60 guests, the evening was filled with music, storytelling, and reflection. 

The Nevas and Price families’ dedication to Judaism, their local communities, and the wider Jewish community is inspiring, and their connection to the URJ’s Every Voice, Every Vote campaign, made possible by the Leo & Libby Nevas Center for Democracy at the RAC, is a shining example of their commitment to building a society of civil rights and freedom for all people.

The Nevas family's history is deeply rooted in their desire to make a positive impact on the world. From advocating for social justice and human rights to fighting antisemitism, the family has a long history of standing up for what they believe in.

This year's Seder reflected the family's concerns about the current state of the world. With the backdrop of rising attacks on democracy and the rule of law, the family invoked the legacy of the family patriarch Leo Nevas and his lifelong pursuit of justice in calling for action and reflection this Passover. The Seder included a powerful prayer for democracy in America written by Rabbi David Lyon at Congregation Beth Israel Houston and a prayer for peace in Israel.

At the heart of the Nevas family's Passover tradition is the Jewish concept of l'dor vador – the passing down of stories, values, and traditions from one generation to the next. As they gather around the Seder table each year, they are not only retelling the story of the Jewish people's journey towards freedom, but also sharing their own family's history, values, and experiences. This commitment to intergenerational storytelling is a powerful reminder that the lessons of Passover are not limited to one generation but are meant to be passed down and built upon by each successive generation, creating a rich and vibrant legacy that continues to inspire and guide them today. 

From patriarch Leo Nevas, who fought for international human rights and advocated for social justice, to the current generation, the family has continued to make a positive impact on their community.

As we celebrate the Nevas family's enduring Passover tradition, we are reminded of the importance of community and action in working towards a more just and equitable society. We are grateful for the Nevas and Price family’s leadership and activism - their commitment to their traditions and their heritage is an inspiration to us all. We are honored to share their story, and we look forward to continuing our work together towards a brighter future.