Embracing Racial and Ethnic Diversity

Mission Statement

Shalem, Temple Sholom of Chicago’s “Embracing Racial and Ethnic Diversity” Working Group promotes an inclusive environment where a cross-section of racial and ethnic identities can thrive in this Jewish community. Shalem means wholeness in Hebrew, as we seek to welcome our community's whole selves--the intersection of racial, ethnic, and religious identities that help create a whole person.

The group focuses on lifting up the voices of Jews of Color and the experiences of multi-racial families in our community, expanding our community's knowledge of racially diverse Jewish experiences, and building our skills as a congregational community. In this way, Temple Sholom of Chicago can continue to live our values and be a true sanctuary for all people. We strive to create distinct spaces for Jews of Color and multi-racial families to support one another as well as engage the wider Temple community through awareness and educational opportunities.  By doing this, we underscore our commitment as a “Sacred Community that Embraces, Inspires and Matters.”