Facing Our Truths: Small Group Discussion on Race

Beth Am’s Racial Justice and Equity Initiative will be convening another set of small groups of 5-10 participants to meet for a series of 6 sessions about how we face our truths about race, privilege, power and the biases that we all hold. Groups will be facilitated by trained congregants. The sessions are based on wonderful materials prepared by clergy and staff from Leo Baeck Temple in Los Angeles, CA and Temple Isaiah in Lexington, MA. Session topics will be:

• Introduction and Overview: Developing a Sense of Trust in the Group, Establishing Relationships
• White Fragility
• Racism and White Supremacy — A Human Construct
• Post-Slavery Incarceration as a Means of Control
• Looking Within Our Jewish Community
• How Are We Responsible/Accountable?

Please sign up for the group that best fits your schedule and needs:

Facilitated by Irene and Kristen
Mondays, Beginning November 7, 7:00 PM, Zoom
Meeting Dates: November 7 & 21, December 5 & 19, 2022 & January 9 & 23, 2023
Both Irene and Kristen are longtime and grateful members of Beth Am. Irene is a software professional and facilitator, who cares deeply about facing our truths in this evolving world. Kristen is a writer, teacher and facilitator, who grew up in Atlanta, where folks acknowledge that race is at the heart of our struggles and possibilities. Join us for deep conversation about this important topic, and to be able to share our experiences as we all grow together! Sign up for Irene and Kristen’s group by Friday, October 21.

Facilitated by Emily
Wednesdays, Beginning November 16, 7:00 PM, Zoom
Emily is a member of the Beth Am Board of Directors and the Director of Health and Social Services at Avenidas Rose Kleiner Center. She and her husband Harsh are active members of Beth Am’s young adults community, the Orchard. Originally from the metro-Detroit area, she has been in the Bay Area for nine years. Emily is looking forward to delving into challenging, important issues with the Beth Am community. Sign up for Emily’s group.