Jacob Plitman

Jacob Plitman served as the publisher of Jewish Currents from 2017 to 2022.3 He played a crucial role in relaunching and rejuvenating the historic magazine, which was founded in 1946.12 Plitman, who was in his late 20s when he took on the role, was tasked with strategizing the transition and hiring new staff to help engage a younger audience of progressive Jews.1

Under Plitman's leadership, Jewish Currents underwent a significant transformation, including redesigning the website and print magazine, developing a public programs calendar, and focusing on institutional partnerships.1 The magazine aimed to become a hub for progressive and leftist Jewish life, attracting those interested in Jewish ideas, literature, culture, and critical perspectives.1

Plitman described the relaunch process as intense and challenging, likening it to "the birth scene from 'Rosemary's Baby,' for four consecutive months, seven days a week".4 His vision for the magazine was to document emerging diasporism and its relationship to politics, publish groundbreaking art and literature, and challenge long-held assumptions.2

Before joining Jewish Currents, Plitman had experience as a labor organizer.4 He stepped down as publisher in May 2022, handing over the role to Daniel May.3