What Does It Mean to Be Jewish?

On Day 1, students will start with what they know about Jewish identity and then observe an array of expressions of Jewish life through images, text, and video. They will then narrow their focus to examine one portrait of Jewish identity and consider the different ways this identity can be expressed and characterized. 

In between Day 1 and Day 2, students will engage in an independent, self-guided exploration of components of Jewish Identity through an interactive digital experience.

On Day 2, students will start with themselves by thinking about when and where they express various aspects of their own identities before considering how antisemitism can impact when and where someone feels safe expressing their Jewish identity. This reflection will set the stage for students to consider how Jews navigate their identities in the dominant culture. Finally, students will make connections among the various resources they engaged with today to consider what they’ve learned about Jewish identity and how they can avoid perpetuating misperceptions and stereotypes about this identity.