November 13, 2024

Dear CJM Community,

We have an important announcement to share. 

The Museum has been weathering a challenging financial landscape, compounded by attendance and general support that have not fully recovered since the pandemic.

To ensure the long-term viability of The Museum, The Board of Trustees has made the decision to reduce The Museum’s operations including closing our galleries to the public on December 15, 2024 for the period of at least one year, along with a phased reduction of staff over the next several months. While this decision is extremely difficult, these actions are a proactive measure to preserve the organization’s financial stability and allow time to develop a sustainable operating model for the future. The CJM's Board has emphasized that this is not a permanent closure of the institution but rather a strategic pause to ensure The Museum’s longevity.

Each of you has played a vital role in our history. Your support has helped us to center the voices of Jewish artists through our exhibitions and programming, educate thousands of children about Jewish culture, and work together to counter antisemitism and intolerance of all kinds. We are so grateful to you for your presence and participation and hope you will continue to be part of our future.

In Judaism, Shabbat—or the Sabbath—is a time of rest, an essential moment carved out of the week for restoration and renewal. Throughout Jewish culture, there are myriad references to moments of pause as a means to rejuvenation. The CJM’s sabbatical will allow for innovative ideation and experimentation, as well as exploration of new ways to reach wider audiences. This temporary closure will enable The Museum to thoroughly evaluate its financial framework and engage in intense planning and organizational assessment, with the clear goal of emerging as a more resilient organization.

The CJM plays a singular role in San Francisco and throughout the Bay Area, and given the increase in antisemitism over recent years, our mission to foster appreciation of and pride in Jewish culture, to enrich the communities we serve, and to counter intolerance is more crucial than ever. As an organization, we remain committed to continuing this important work, and to staying in touch with you as we do so.

In recognition of this chapter, The CJM invites all visitors to experience its current exhibitions free of charge through December 15, 2024. We hope you will find time to enjoy our galleries with friends and family over the next month. If you are not already a subscriber, please join our mailing list to stay informed about future updates.

Tom Kasten, Chair, Board of Trustees

Kerry King, Executive Director