How Resilient Are Jewish Institutions

Key Findings:

JCPA, Moishe House, and Upstart leaders speak about their work around Jewish resilience, and what each organization’s approach is to ensure that it is properly cultivated – especially in the aftermath of October 7. The interviewees also discuss changes within their organizations, and lessons learned in the face of this crisis that are inspiring a change or shift in their work. 

Interview topics include: defining allyship; fostering relationships with diverse communities; strengthening support and security within Jewish spaces; highlighting the positive aspects and changes brought of this moment in time; building resilient staff; and conversations had in the aftermath of October 7 within their teams (for example, holding space for differing opinions while still remaining loyal to the organization's principles). 

The interviewees emphasize the importance of leaning into Jewish learning, joy, and traditions to refuel and help continue to fight the fight and support one another. This is a crucial aspect of being able to reconnect with the “why” of this work, and therefore be able to carry it on. 

Although history echoes itself, Jews are now in a much more favorable position than they ever were before. This is attributed to collective resilience and support of others in leadership positions.