Shift in the Current - Dorothy Reitman

A Shift in the Current is the memoir of Dorothy Reitman, chronicling her life from childhood through marriage and decades of community leadership, volunteerism, activism, and global humanitarian work.


Dorothy grew up in Montreal during the Great Depression and World War II. Her immigrant parents modeled philanthropy and community responsibility, planting the seeds for her lifelong volunteerism. A sheltered childhood, early encounters with antisemitism, and exposure to global events shaped her understanding of injustice and powerlessness.


After marrying Cyril Reitman and having her only son Joel abducted and safely returned, she began volunteering to find purpose and connection, beginning by working with Montreal community organizations, and ultimately national and international ones, all making an impact throughout her career.

This book follows my family, my struggles, as an advocate, a community leader and an activist during major social and political events throughout my life.


Hence, the important impact I have made!