For Jewish Teens in 11th and 12th grade:

The JCRC Youth Fellowship for Jewish Identity and Leadership is opening several sessions to all Jewish 11th and 12th graders. You are invited and encouraged to join us! These sessions are intended to deepen your knowledge and strengthen your Jewish identity. Sessions are free; no stipend or homework; registration is required.

REGISTER

Register to attend open sessions:

Jewish Diversity and Solidarity Movements
Date: January 12, 2025
Time: 4:00PM – 5:30PM
Location: Barry Family Campus 

In this session, participants will explore the diverse experiences and identities within the Jewish community, including Sephardi, Mizrahi, Ashkenazi, Beta Israel, and other Diaspora groups. The concept of intersectionality will be examined, highlighting how Jews can hold multiple identities that interact with one another. Yedidyah Yasu, St. Paul’s Israel Shaliach, will share his story as a member of the Beta Yisrael (Jews whose families lived millennia in Ethiopia). Iola Kostrzewski, Minnesota Engagement Director for the ADL (Anti-Defamation League), will speak about her experiences as a Black Sephardi Jew and discuss the historical collaboration between Black and Jewish communities.

Israelis and Palestinians: Dual Narratives
Date: March 9, 2025
Time: 4:00PM – 5:30PM
Location: Barry Family Campus

In this session, participants will explore the complex and often conflicting stories of the Jewish and Palestinian peoples. This session encourages participants to listen with empathy and awareness to the Palestinian narrative, recognizing that understanding another perspective does not equate to agreement. It provides a comprehensive historical context that acknowledges the legitimacy and depth of both narratives, presenting the Zionist story with pride and without apology, while also authentically and respectfully presenting the Palestinian perspective. Participants will learn to navigate the reality that even with a political “Two-State Solution,” a “two-narrative” problem will persist, understanding that dual narratives are a fundamental aspect of the conflict that requires continuous dialogue and mutual respect. The session aims to empower participants by honoring history in a way that informs and enlightens rather than imprisons, emphasizing that history should serve as a foundation for building a peaceful and collaborative future, not as a veto over it. 

Combating Antisemitism
Date: April 6, 2025
Time: 4:30PM – 7:00PM
Location: Minnesota Hillel

In this session, participants will focus on various forms of antisemitism, both historical and contemporary, and exploring strategies for combatting discrimination and prejudice. It will cover topics such as “New Antisemitism,” the racialization of Jews, and antisemitism on college campuses. This session aims to equip participants with the knowledge and tools needed to identify and combat antisemitism in their daily lives and future academic settings. Students will have the opportunity to speak with Hillel staff about Jewish life on campus and tour the Minnesota Hillel building. 

Jewish Identity in the Digital Age
Date: May 4, 2025
Time: 4:00PM – 6:00PM
Location: Barry Family Campus

In this session, participants will explore the opportunities and challenges of navigating Jewish identity in the age of technology and social media. Participants will discuss strategies for leveraging digital platforms for community building, education, and advocacy. 

Funding of the JCRC Youth Fellowship for Jewish Identity and Leadership was provided through a grant from the Toodie and Frank Trestman Collaborative Education and Special Needs Fund, a fund of the Minnesota Jewish Community Foundation, and through a grant from the Women’s Endowment Fund, a fund of the Minnesota Jewish Community Foundation, , and through an anonymous fund at the Minneapolis Foundation.