Be’chol Lashon Events

Be’chol Lashon has sponsored community building events for African American, Asian, Latino, and mixed-race Jews as well as their families and friends in the San Francisco Bay Area since 1999.

Be’chol Lashon programming fosters a safe environment where individuals can express their Judaism. An atmosphere of inclusiveness while celebrating holidays or special events helps everyone feel part of the Jewish community. Participants in Be’chol Lashon events gain knowledge and appreciation for Judaism. These experiences increase involvement in Jewish life and strengthen the Jewish people.

Chanukah, Shavuot and Purim are among the community-wide holiday celebrations, attracting over 400 participants: almost half are children. The entire Bay Area community is invited and holiday celebrations are typically co-sponsored by over 50 organizations. Bay Area programming also includes an annual Shabbaton Retreat providing a more in-depth opportunity to learn and celebrate Judaism together.

Be’chol Lashon programs are infused with substantive learning about Judaism, including the history of diversity of the Jewish people. All aspects of an event are potential educational opportunities, from diverse leadership to global cuisine. The ritual practice ranges from Orthodox to "cultural" Judaism.

Attracting such diverse groups—differentiated by ritual practice, family structure, ethnic/racial background, sexual orientation, socio-economic status and age—is a major challenge. Building tolerance for others is the coalescing theme. We strive for a patchwork quilt rather than a melting pot. Be’chol Lashon is celebration of all traditions. Programming for diverse Jews in the Bay Area serves as a model that can be replicated in other communities.

Programming Goals:

•	Promote an inclusive and pluralistic Jewish community that is supportive of all Jews.
•	Reduce barriers to participation on Jewish life, such as cost.
•	Create learning opportunities and dialogue about American and world Jewry to understand Jewish history, geography, ritual practice, and the values of Judaism.
•	Help reduce stereotypes and prejudices.