Beginning in the 14th Century, hundreds of thousands of Sefarad Jews lived on the Iberian Peninsula (nowadays Spain and Portugal). Many were forcibly converted to Catholicism (Conversos). Those who attempted to hold on to their Jewish traditions in secret were referred to as crypto-Jews. In later decades and centuries, these hidden or crypto-Jews lived in extreme secret in the hope of not being discovered by the tribunal of the Inquisition, which meant torture and death, often by fire. A substantial presence of this culture can be found in Latin America and the Southwestern part of the United States. Millions of people worldwide are discovering and exploring their Jewish ancestry and seeking a reconnection with their Jewish heritage.
While a few return to their Jewish roots (convert back to Judaism), most stay Christian. However, upon discovering they are descendants of conversos, many embrace their Jewish heritage and feel a greater connection with the Jewish People, Sefarad, and Israel. As there are an estimated 200 million descendants of conversos in the world today, this initiative can truly transform history. The Converso Phenomenon is not just a historical footnote—it is a living, evolving story that continues to shape identities and communities across the globe.
This online community resides in a digital space where people interested in their heritage may find relevant information and connect with people with shared interests, goals, or experiences.
At a time when antisemitism and anti-Israel sentiment are surging out of control, we have a sacred responsibility to act now, and for the future. The Converso Online Initiative is more than a community project — it is a powerful way to combat Jew hatred, educate the world, and critically preserve the vibrant tapestry of the Jewish story for generations to come.
