Encounter's value is being one of a kind in creating a thoughtful, safe space [and a] responsible and diverse cohort of inspiring colleagues who can support each other in engaging the conflict in our communities. It offers Jewish leaders access to the voices we want to be talking to and with and about from the other side of the messiest, most personal global conflict we are in some way all a part of. It softens our ears and hearts even while dogmatically resisting specific political solutions or pat answers.
Rabbi Steven Exler
Senior Rabbi, Hebrew Institute of Riverdale
Encounter gave me an opportunity that I had long been missing: to listen to the stories, perspectives, and experiences of Palestinians living in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. As a passionate supporter of Israel who yearns for peace, this experience was critical to a more complete understanding of the complexity of this land…
Rabbi Adam Raskin
Senior Rabbi, Congregation Har Shalom
I have an additional narrative in my head which I didn't have prior--that is why I knew it was necessary for me as a communal leader.
Debbie Cosgrove
Chair, Jewish Women’s Foundation NY
Encounter reinforced that certainty is not our friend if we are going to be drivers of peace. We need more questions than answers, more curiosity than certainty.
Elana Kahn
Director, Jewish Community Relations Council of the Milwaukee Jewish Federation
It's a powerful and necessary experience.
Lindsey B. Mintz
Executive Director, Indianapolis JCRC
