November 12, 2023
@
2:00 pm
–
5:00 pm
EDT
Cultivating Jewish Climate Leadership in Southeast Michigan
Together with our partners, we are building the next chapter of Jewish climate leadership in Southeast Michigan.
Join the members, lay-leaders, staff and clergy of Southeast Michigan Jewish organizations for an afternoon of learning and community building through diverse sessions and workshops that will inspire and empower this next chapter of our collective work.
The Summit will feature practical sessions focused on institutional climate action, climate finance, Jewish environmental education, Jewish teen climate engagement, and an exploration of the ways in which our tradition compels us to respond to this crisis.
Learning Session Titles and Descriptions:
Jewish Environmental Advocacy: What’s going on and how your organization can get involved
Michigan, known for its stunning landscapes and vast natural resources, faces pressing environmental challenges and opportunities. Participants will hear from local leaders engaged in climate advocacy, learn about pending legislation, and discuss the ability for your institutions to advocate for the topics of your choosing. This learning session was developed in collaboration with the JCRC/AJC, Detroit Jews for Justice, and The National Council of Jewish Women | MI.
Climate Action Financing: Federal, State and local financial opportunities for Jewish organizations to act for our climate
Recognizing the need for financial resources to support Jewish institutional climate initiatives, participants will delve into the world of climate financing. Participants will learn about opportunities for tax-exempt, faith-based organizations to access federal, state, local and private financial resources. Completed projects utilizing unique finance methods will be showcased and discussed. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask institution specific questions and discuss upcoming or desired projects with community members navigating similar circumstances. This session was developed in collaboration with Hebrew Free Loan and Lean & Green Michigan.
Climate Action Planning: Explore the Jewish Climate Leadership Coalition
The Jewish Climate Leadership Coalition, powered by Adamah, is a network of Jewish community organizations who recognize the existential threat and moral urgency of climate change and commit to take action. With support from Adamah staff, each organization outlines the strategic priorities of their climate work by setting goals for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and impactful environmental programming. Participants will learn about this new initiative, engage with experiences of peer organizations, review resources, and take the first steps toward joining this exciting coalition and making plans for 2024. This learning session was developed in collaboration with Temple Beth Emeth, Temple Emanu El, and the Isaac Agree Downtown Synagogue.
Torah of the Earth: Explore what our sacred texts say about Jewish climate leadership
Join us for a workshop where participants will explore Jewish sacred texts to unearth the insights, values, and ethical teachings that guide our path towards addressing the urgent challenges of climate change. Through an interactive and participatory session, we will explore how our ancient wisdom can guide us in becoming stewards of the environment, fostering a deeper connection to nature, and inspiring meaningful action towards a sustainable future. This workshop offers a unique opportunity to blend tradition with contemporary environmental concerns, fostering a sense of purpose and responsibility within the Jewish community for our planet’s well-being. This learning session was developed and will be facilitated by Adat Shalom Synagogue, The Well, and Beth Israel Congregation.
Empower Teen-led Climate Action: Creating climate focused pathways in Jewish Teen-serving organizations
Explore the dynamic intersection of climate action, climate anxiety, and Jewish identity in this session designed for Jewish teen-serving professionals. Hear from Adamah’s Jewish Youth Climate Movement(JYCM) alumni about how to create pathways from environmental education and resilience building for teens to engage in at your institutions. Engage in open conversations about the real and understandable anxiety that the climate crisis can evoke, and discover empowering strategies for channeling that anxiety into positive action. Learn how interactive discussions, reflective activities, and collaborative projects can inform and inspire sustainable practices, while also addressing the emotional toll of climate concerns. This session was developed in collaboration with JYCM staff and teen leaders, Adat Shalom, BBYO MI, and Congregation Shaarey Zedek.
Jewish Environmental Learning: Embracing Nature’s Role in the Hebrew Calendar
Join us for a workshop designed specifically for Jewish educators, where we will delve into the profound connection between nature and the Hebrew calendar. In this interactive session, we will discover how the Jewish calendar intertwines with the natural world, offering valuable insights into our relationship with the environment, spirituality, and tradition. We’ll explore how the Jewish calendar is closely aligned with the changing seasons, and how this connection influences Jewish holidays, rituals, and traditions. This learning session was developed in collaboration with Congregation T’chiyah and Adamah.
