Jewish Experiences, a Collaboration of Jewish Federation and The J, will host a community symposium on Wednesday, May 17, at the KU Edwards Campus (12600 S Quivira Road) from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The day of learning is open to all Kansas City-area Jewish professionals and is generously funded by Menorah Heritage Foundation.
The event will be facilitated by Keshet, an organization that “works for the full equality of all LGBTQ Jews” and their families. Sessions are aimed to help local Jewish professionals develop their personal and professional skills to help better serve LGBTQ+ identifying members in the Jewish community.
“One of the hardest parts about working for a community is when we look in the mirror and are occasionally reminded that we should be doing more to live up to the values that guide our organizations,” said Ethan Helfand, director of Jewish Experiences. “All of Kansas City’s incredible Jewish organizations, congregations, and professionals want to ensure that we are genuinely as welcoming and inclusive as possible, and that we are intentional in our efforts to engage all Jewish people, including those from marginalized communities. The best way to ensure we live up to those values is to work with and learn from organizations such as Keshet, who can share best practices, challenge our thinking, and remind us that the work is never finished.”
All participants will begin the day with a basic training introducing and explaining different concepts and terms around the LGBTQ+ community. After that, participants will be able to choose from different sessions on issues ranging from Allyship training to best practices for Jewish educators. The day’s learning was inspired by the recent Jewish Community study, with a renewed focus on creating a more welcoming and inclusive community.
According to Helfand, part of the inspiration for this day of learning has come through Jewish Experience’s work with Ga’avah KC, a local organization dedicated to LGBTQ+ Jewish people and their loved ones, which is spearheaded by lay leader Brad Ordo. Having worked with Keshet in the past, the opportunity seemed like the perfect fit.
Registrants can sign up and find more information at JEXSymposium.org. Registrants have the option of signing up for a full day, which includes a kosher lunch, or a half-day session.
Jewish Experiences is committed to providing programming that is accessible to the widest possible audience. Questions regarding accommodations or the accessibility of the program or venue can be directed to Megan Pener at .