As we approach the High Holidays, it’s a time for reflection, connection, and renewal within our Jewish community. It’s also an opportunity to ensure that everyone feels welcome and seen in our congregations, programs, and experiences. With antisemitism on the rise, it is more important than ever to create spaces that reflect the diverse identities within our community and provide a sense of belonging to all who participate.
Here are some actionable steps and considerations to help us embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion in our Jewish spaces.
Understanding Our Community’s Diversity
The North American Jewish community is incredibly diverse, including interfaith families, Jews with disabilities, Jews of Color, LGBTQ+ Jews, and people of various socio-economic backgrounds, among others. For example:
- Interfaith and intermarried couples make up a significant portion of our community, with 71% of non-Orthodox Jewish marriages in the U.S. being interfaith.
- Jews with disabilities account for 20% of our community.
- Jews of Color represent at least 12-15% of U.S. Jews, and about 10% have Mizrahi or Sephardic heritage.
- LGBTQ+ Jews comprise at least 10% of North American Jews, with up to 20% among those aged 18-29.
These demographics highlight the need for inclusive programming that reflects the broad spectrum of Jewish experiences.
Planning with Inclusivity in Mind
When planning for the High Holidays and beyond, consider these inclusive practices:
- Incorporate Inclusion from the Beginning: Start your planning process with a diverse group of voices at the table. Use resources and knowledge developed by or in collaboration with the groups being represented.
- Accessibility:
- Ensure venues have accessible entrances, elevators, and restrooms, including all-gender restrooms.
- Set up interactive wall posters and activities at wheelchair height.
- Reserve spaces for wheelchair users that are dispersed throughout the seating area, rather than grouping them in one spot.
- Consider the physical layout through an accessibility lens, including wide pathways for mobility aids and seating for people of all sizes.
- Hybrid and Online Programming:
- Design hybrid and online programs that consider accessibility, such as providing closed captioning and clear instructions on platform accessibility features.
- Offer alternatives for physical participation, like using a “raise hand” feature on Zoom for those who cannot stand or move easily.
- Be mindful of the sensory experience, such as using minimal background images and accessible color schemes in presentations.
- Inclusive Language:
- Use language that does not assume gender or family makeup, such as “parents and guardians” instead of “mothers and fathers.”
- Avoid gendered phrases like “ladies and gentlemen” and opt for inclusive terms like “everyone” or “folks.”
- Incorporate pronouns into introductions and encourage others to do the same, but respect if someone chooses not to share their pronouns.
- Creating Safe and Welcoming Spaces:
- Display symbols of inclusion, such as LGBTQ+ or disability pride flags, to visibly communicate a welcoming environment.
- Provide quiet spaces and accommodate individuals who need them, including those who are nursing or need a break from sensory input.
- Ensure that programming, advertising, and visual presentations include diverse representations, without over-repeating the same images.
- Fostering Inclusive Dialogue:
- In discussions and small talk, avoid microaggressions and assumptions about someone’s Jewish identity, appearance, or abilities.
- Correct mistakes with a simple apology and move on, showing commitment to getting it right next time.
- Make space for everyone’s voice, and if leading a panel, ensure all voices are heard equally.
Moving Forward with Intentionality
As we gather for the High Holidays, let us move forward with the intention to create inclusive and welcoming experiences for all during this season and beyond. By integrating these practices into our planning and programming, we honor the diverse identities within our community and build a more connected and supportive Jewish environment.
Inclusivity is not a one-time effort but an ongoing commitment. Let’s continue to listen, learn, and adapt, ensuring that every person who enters our spaces feels that they truly belong.
For more resources on creating inclusive programming and experiences, please reach out to engagement@phoenixcjp.org. Together, we can make our High Holidays, and all Jewish events and programs, spaces of true inclusion and belonging.
This post has been contributed by a third party. The opinions, facts and any media content are presented solely by the author, and JewishPhoenix assumes no responsibility for them. MORE
