Submission #28246 by Temple Israel of Sharon Brotherhood - Sharon, MA (738)
2023
I have read the 2023 Torch Awards Program Guidelines.
Hearing Men's Voices
Hearing Men's Voices
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The theme for this year’s HMV is sharing our feelings about inclusion and diversity. The uncertainty of using the right words can be paralyzing. Most of us are worried we will
say or do the wrong thing. As a result, we simply don’t talk about race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, age, or other differences.
Hearing Men's Voices is a series of discussion groups among members of the Brotherhood. It provides a safe, supportive environment in which men can delve into areas of mutual interest and concern. Discussions here are confidential, and this creates a safe space for us to talk about our feelings and experiences.
Practically, each meeting is at the home of a Brotherhood member, with refreshments provided. We discuss our experiences related to the topic, led by a facilitator, and each discussion lasts about an hour and a half.
say or do the wrong thing. As a result, we simply don’t talk about race, religion, disability, sexual orientation, age, or other differences.
Hearing Men's Voices is a series of discussion groups among members of the Brotherhood. It provides a safe, supportive environment in which men can delve into areas of mutual interest and concern. Discussions here are confidential, and this creates a safe space for us to talk about our feelings and experiences.
Practically, each meeting is at the home of a Brotherhood member, with refreshments provided. We discuss our experiences related to the topic, led by a facilitator, and each discussion lasts about an hour and a half.
Here is a brief description of the six sessions from this year:
1. The Terminology of Inclusion
The words we use both react to social change and also help drive acceptance of it. How do we choose the right words? What shouldn't we talk about? Have the words
you've been using recently gotten discouraged?
2. Acknowledging our Preconceptions
However we were brought up, it involved one kind of preconception or another. Modern inclusion and respect for diversity asks us to recognize, if not overcome, these
preconceptions. What does it take to recognize our own preconceptions? How do we find ourselves reacting? Does Jewish tradition help or get in the way?
3. Old and New World
Growing up, we were trained to live in a world that worked a particular way. The world is different now. What techniques have you found for coping in today's world? Is the
Old/New gap today any different it was when WE were the new kids?
4. Sexuality and Gender
Who you love, and who you feel you are, is a spectrum. For some people, this is a difficult realization; for others it is already who they are. Does either of these sound
like it describes you, or someone else in your life?
5. Tolerating the Intolerant?
Perhaps not everyone in your family or friends sees things the same way. Do you have difficulty talking with them? Do you need to cut them out of your life, or is there an
alternative? What strategies do you use to find a pathway to talk?
6. From "Us" and "Them" to "We Are the World“
The world is a big place, with all kinds wanting to be included. Have you seen any trouble making room for them? How do we create a better world?
1. The Terminology of Inclusion
The words we use both react to social change and also help drive acceptance of it. How do we choose the right words? What shouldn't we talk about? Have the words
you've been using recently gotten discouraged?
2. Acknowledging our Preconceptions
However we were brought up, it involved one kind of preconception or another. Modern inclusion and respect for diversity asks us to recognize, if not overcome, these
preconceptions. What does it take to recognize our own preconceptions? How do we find ourselves reacting? Does Jewish tradition help or get in the way?
3. Old and New World
Growing up, we were trained to live in a world that worked a particular way. The world is different now. What techniques have you found for coping in today's world? Is the
Old/New gap today any different it was when WE were the new kids?
4. Sexuality and Gender
Who you love, and who you feel you are, is a spectrum. For some people, this is a difficult realization; for others it is already who they are. Does either of these sound
like it describes you, or someone else in your life?
5. Tolerating the Intolerant?
Perhaps not everyone in your family or friends sees things the same way. Do you have difficulty talking with them? Do you need to cut them out of your life, or is there an
alternative? What strategies do you use to find a pathway to talk?
6. From "Us" and "Them" to "We Are the World“
The world is a big place, with all kinds wanting to be included. Have you seen any trouble making room for them? How do we create a better world?
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Original Program
Gold