Rabbinical leaders raised the issue of preserving the Jewish cemetery in Uman at the White House

Rabbinical leaders representing Jewish communities in the United States raised the issue of preserving Jewish cemeteries abroad during a meeting at the White House. This issue is of particular importance to Uman, where efforts are underway to protect the historic Jewish cemetery—a memorial site linked to the tragic history of the city’s Jewish community. This was reported by the “Uman Historical and Cultural Center Charitable Foundation.”

According to the information provided, a delegation of prominent rabbinical leaders, together with community representatives, met with U.S. President Donald Trump and members of his administration in the Oval Office of the White House. Among the issues discussed during the meeting was the preservation of Jewish cemeteries abroad.

The delegation included Rabbi David Niederman, who played a leading role in the discussions. The charitable organization “Uman Historical and Cultural Center Foundation” works closely with him on the preservation of Jewish cemeteries and other issues of mutual interest.

The Preservation of Jewish Cemeteries—An Issue of International Importance

Jewish cemeteries abroad are not merely burial sites. They are part of historical memory, religious heritage, and a testament to the lives of Jewish communities that existed for centuries in the cities of Central and Eastern Europe.

For many communities, these sites hold special spiritual significance. Their preservation is a matter of respect for the deceased, the protection of cultural heritage, and a responsible approach to history.

That is why the discussion of Jewish cemeteries at the White House sends an important message: the issue of protecting such sites extends far beyond the boundaries of a single community or a single country.

The “Uman City Historical and Cultural Center Charitable Foundation” is working closely with the U.S. federal government to preserve and protect the historic Jewish cemetery in Uman — a sacred resting place for thousands of Jewish martyrs. As part of these efforts, we have signed an agreement with the U.S. Commission for the Preservation of American Heritage Abroad to install a special memorial plaque that will officially recognize, honor, and commemorate this historic cemetery. This vital initiative is currently underway.

The historic Jewish cemetery in Uman needs protection

Uman is one of the key sites of Jewish remembrance in Ukraine. It is here that the grave of Rabbi Nachman of Bratslav is located, to which Hasidic pilgrims from around the world travel every year.

At the same time, the city has a complex history tied to ancient Jewish burial sites. The historic Jewish cemetery in Uman is a sacred resting place for thousands of Jewish martyrs.

The Charitable Organization “Uman Historical and Cultural Center Foundation” continues its work aimed at preserving and protecting this historic site.

Why This Is Important for Uman

Preserving the historic Jewish cemetery in Uman is important not only for the Jewish community. It is also a matter of historical justice, cultural heritage, and the city’s international reputation.

Every year, Uman welcomes thousands of Hasidic pilgrims who come to visit Rabbi Nachman’s grave. At the same time, the city must treat its entire Jewish historical heritage with respect, particularly burial sites, which require protection, proper reverence, and safeguarding against destruction.

A historic cemetery is more than just a piece of land. It is a place of remembrance that requires respect, legal protection, and constant attention.

Efforts to protect the cemetery continue

The Charitable Organization “Uman Historical and Cultural Center Foundation” continues to work to ensure that the historic Jewish cemetery in Uman is properly recognized, protected, and preserved.

The organization collaborates with international partners, representatives of Jewish communities, religious leaders, and institutions dedicated to preserving memory and cultural heritage.

Particular attention is being paid to ensuring that the historic cemetery is not only marked with a memorial plaque but also receives the proper public and institutional recognition.