Whenever someone wants to accomplish something in a community – any community — one of the first steps in getting organized is to reach out to those around you who might have a similar interest to see if you can work together. 

This same principle holds true when we want to help increase the awareness of the Jewish community, the challenges we’re facing, and the need to have support from allies. 

The Importance of Grassroots Efforts

Recent research among all B.C. residents shows that friends and family are a trusted source of information on the current conflict. One of the ways to improve understanding of the Jewish community amongst non-Jews is to extend ourselves in friendship to our family, friends, and colleagues.  

True grassroots efforts – the act of reaching out to even one person – will provide benefits to all of us in increased support beyond the Jewish community. 

We’re asking you to consider reaching out to non-Jews in your life – people you already know and like – and invite them a bit closer. Make them your plus one to Jewish events you may be attending, such as a community Seder. Invite them to your Shabbat table or consider hosting an event to celebrate a Jewish holiday or festival.  

Please only consider hosting if you are feeling calm and capable of entertaining – do not extend yourself if you feel uncomfortable or in any way vulnerable – i.e. sad, angry, frustrated or tired. 

If you’re hosting non-Jewish friends at a Shabbat dinner, be prepared to explain the blessings, the rituals, and your own household traditions. Be prepared to answer questions, but keep the atmosphere light, relaxed and focused on relaxing into Shabbat. 

You could also host events, parties or intimate gatherings around any of the Jewish festivals – e.g. Chanukah, Purim, Passover, Rosh Hashanah etc. Explain the purpose of each holiday/holy-day and provide examples of special symbolic foods such as sufganyiot at Chanukah, kugel at Passover, the round challah of Rosh Hashanah. Nothing bonds like sharing a meal. 

Guiding Conversations 

In guiding the conversation at your Shabbat table or over coffee with non-Jewish friends, set some simple ground rules. Letting people know that our traditions allow and encourage a diversity of opinions is a good way to start.  

Other phrases that might come in handy are things like, “I’m a Jew, not a rabbi,” in answer to questions about religion. Consider using, “In my opinion…” or “I believe/understand/think…” as a start to your statements. Try to gently elicit your guests’ opinions and questions, assuring them they will be heard and respected. 

In response to queries about things that may be controversial, the truism “two Jews, three opinions” is a useful one to rely on. Explain that Jews are not all the same and do not hold the same opinions and that is ok. We ourselves have debates about whether we are best defined as a race, religion, culture or tribe.  

If the conversation turns to the current conflict, consider framing your answer in terms of what you know and what you believe. Example: “I know it is difficult to see the loss of life on both sides in this war…but I believe the only way to keep Israelis and Palestinians safe is for Hamas to leave Gaza.”  

Ask your non-Jewish friends what they think, believe, and feel to give them the opportunity to share their experience and opinions. This also provides you with information about what they know and how you can expand their knowledge of Jews, Israel, and what is happening today in Canada.

You don’t have to pretend to know everything or to agree with anything/everything your non-Jewish friends say. Keep the conversation civil and make sure everyone feels comfortable voicing their opinions respectfully. Example: “I am not sure that what you are saying is factually true, but I also know none of us are always right or always wrong. Do you mind if I send you some resources on the topic?” 

Conclusion 

There aren’t a lot of Jews in British Columbia, and learning about different people, religions, and perspectives can be daunting at the best of times. Being more Jewish with your non-Jewish friends and inviting them one step closer to our rich culture, traditions, and values is a way to create a safe place for them to ask questions, and to learn more about us. It also allows them to understand more about how challenging this current time is for us and provides them with an opportunity to become our allies as we work for peace.