Beyond Polarized Kvetching (March 6 & 20, 2024)

Have you ever struggled to talk about the complex social and political realities of Israel and Palestine with family, friends, co-workers or fellow members of your religious community? You are not alone!

Come and learn some communication skills, strategies, and exercises for having conversations rather than angry tirades or silenced mealtimes. This two-part series has helped people across Turtle Island to move towards heartfelt and productive dialogue. Join us for two evening sessions, Wed March 6 and Wed March 20 to learn together.

Toronto United Mennonite Church is grateful to welcome the insights of Lia and Emily, whose experience with hard conversations comes with their work as anti-Zionist Jews relating to a diverse and complex community. This workshop draws on their experiences, but is not intended to be a place to discuss or debate Israel, Palestine, or similar topics. While the workshop will be centered around the topic of Israel and Palestine, the skills will be applicable to any polarized topic.

Likewise, participants will be asked to reflect on and draw upon their own experiences of engaging contentious social and political issues within a relationship. Whatever your context, and whatever the issues that are difficult to talk about, please come prepared to share and listen generously. We hope these sessions will help.

This event is hosted by the Mission & Service Committee of Toronto United Mennonite Church. This workshop is open to people of all spiritual, secular, cultural, and religious backgrounds to engage one another with respect.