Songs of the Shephardim in Izmir

In Izmir, an ancient Turkish city rich with religious history and culture, Ceni is working to preserve Ladino—the endangered language of Sephardic Jews. Ceni’s family migrated to Turkey centuries ago, following the expulsion of the Jews from Spain. Like many others in her generation, Ceni grew up with parents and grandparents who spoke Ladino at home, but the language wasn’t passed down. Preparing for a musical performance organized by Nesim Bencoya, director of the Izmir Jewish Heritage Project, Ceni finds a deep connection with her Sephardic heritage and hopes to save Ladino for future generations.