The “Big Tent” Approach–Does it Work?

The “Big Tent” Approach–Does it Work?

Training for Jewish Organizations, Synagogues, and Educators

Facilitator leads a group program on oppression

In this unique and intense time in Jewish American history, a “big tent” approach to educational work can feel like an insurmountable, unimaginable ideal. And yet, it is one of the best ways to create environments that produce learners with critical-thinking skills who can engage across difference, articulate their own ideas, and remain committed to Jewish identity throughout their lifetimes. Let’s talk about the challenges and benefits of the “big tent” approach when it comes to educational and organizational work, share best practices, and hopefully leave with some new tools.

Panelist speaking at Avodah event

Training Outcomes

→ Learn about what it means to use a “big tent” approach in your learning or organizational setting

→ Think about what is difficult or exciting about inviting learners or constituents with diverse political opinions into your communities

→ Share wins and challenges you’ve experienced in these environments

→ Dive into case studies of when the big tent approach has worked or not

→ Leave with some new tools on how to handle challenges when working in big tent frameworks

Who needs this training?

→ Synagogues, Jewish organizations, and community institutions that are navigating political diversity within their membership or leadership

→ Educators and program leaders seeking tools to hold spaces that include a wide range of perspectives while maintaining clear values

→ Jewish communal professionals who are grappling with polarization within their communities

→ Boards or leadership teams working to clarify communal boundaries, expectations, and norms of engagement

→ Organizations committed to strengthening pluralism while maintaining a strong sense of shared purpose

Take it a step further

A “Big Tent” training opens up important questions: Who feels inside? Who feels outside? What tensions are we avoiding in the name of unity? Naming these dynamics in a workshop is only the beginning.

Post-session coaching and consulting supports Jewish organizations in translating the aspiration of a “big tent” into real policies, practices, and leadership behaviors that hold complexity without collapsing into lowest-common-denominator communities.

Learn more about “Big Tent” Jewish Community coaching >>

Pricing

Pricing is determined by your organization’s budget and structure. It does not include any travel to and from the training.

Please reach out to Emilia Diamant, our Chief Program Officer, at community@avodah.net with questions.

Organization Type Price Range
Nonprofit organization $1,500–$7,000
For-profit business $5,000–$15,000

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Meaningful Engagement Across Difference →
Understanding, Supporting, and Empowering Gen Z →

Start a conversation

Interested in bringing our “Big Tent” training to your organization? Connect with our team.