What is the Teen Jews of Color Fellowship? The Teen Jews of Color Fellowship a transformative fellowship for 11th and 12th graders that offers an inclusive and vibrant space for participants to explore all their intersecting identities, cultivate leadership skills, and engage in meaningful project-based learning.
The fellowship provides mentorship from adult Jews of Color who guide and inspire the students along their path. The fellowship emphasizes community building and organizing principles, empowering participants to bring about positive change in their home communities.
Who should be a fellow? We are looking for talented, enthusiastic teens who are interested in learning more about their own identities, spending time with a cohort of self-identified Jews of Color that represent the wide diversity of the Jewish community, and gaining the skills needed to be changemakers. 11th and 12th graders who are ready to grow, learn and take on a little bit of leadership make excellent fellows.
Why is it only for Jews of Color? At the heart of this fellowship lies a commitment to creating affinity spaces—spaces that provide a sense of belonging and understanding among individuals who share common experiences. Within these spaces, Jewish teens of Color are encouraged to explore their personal narratives, discuss the intersections of their identities, and forge deep connections with their peers. Participants will emerge empowered, equipped with the tools to shape a future that celebrates diversity, inclusivity, and social justice.
You can find out more about our other fellowships at nfty.org/yearround.
What is the time commitment? The fellowship lasts one school year - it is an 9-month program (September-May) where teens will meet virtually 1-2 times per month and attend an in-person retreat. Fellows will also complete projects of their own design in the Spring.
If you have additional questions, please reach out to Rabbi Kelly Whitehead, Teen Jews of Color Fellowship Organizer, at kwhitehead@urj.org or check out the Fellowship website.
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