Jewish Unity Live: An analysis

A few commenters wrote in to say that I was completely wrong about Jewish Unity Live being disingenuous. So let's do some research and see what we find. Jewish Unity Live (JUL) lists the following organizations as its 'partners':

1. Phoenix Community Kollel
   
2. LINK The Los Angeles Intercommunity Kollel
   
3. Jewish Education Center of South Florida
   
4. Atlanta Scholars Kollel
   
5. JET (Jewish Education Team) (Chicago)
   
6. St. Louis Kollel
   
7. Torah Links (Lakewood)
   
8. Jewish Education Program (JEP) of Long Island
   
9. JET (Jewish Education Through Torah) (Ottawa)
   
10. Providence Community Kollel
    
11. Dallas Area Torah Association (DATA)
    
12. The Seattle Kollel
    

Let's have a look at each of these organization's mission statements and see whether or not it is disingenuous.

1. Phoenix

'Whether you're Reform, Conservative, Orthodox, unaffiliated or somewhere in between, the Phoenix Community Kollel is your most vibrant source for Jewish learning in the Valley of the Sun. Through study opportunities in various formats and locations, the Kollel brings a new dimension to everyday Jewish life.

Led by a team of dynamic rabbis, the Phoenix Community Kollel gives you the tools to connect timeless Jewish traditions with modern life. You'll learn in a nurturing environment as the rabbis open their minds to impart wisdom. In addition, the rabbis open their homes to share Shabbat, and their lives for personal family celebrations. By uniting fellow Jews through shared joy in religious education and Judaic tradition, and by extending a friendly, upbeat, non-judgmental invitation to all Jews. The Phoenix Community Kollel is building bridges in our community. '

Non judgmental? But doesn't every member of the Phoenix community kollel passionately believe that Reform and Conservative Judaism are treif, Reform Rabbis are 'Tinok Shenishbah' at best and Kofrim at worst? Phoenix, please explain the 'non judgmental' thanks.

2. Los Angeles (LINK)

'LINK is dedicated to creating a true Makom Torah which will serve as a beacon of light emanating from Westwood. In addition, we are committed to heightening Jewish pride and identity through a large number of creative programs and educational initiatives.

Our mission is to help interested Jews become observant and Baalei Teshuva become Bnai Torah. Whether one is reform, conservative, orthodox, unaffiliated or somewhere in between, LINK is their most vibrant source for Jewish learning.'

OK, at least they're honest about their goals.

3. South Florida

'The Jewish Education Center of South Florida is an organization committed to spreading Jewish awareness. The Center is a base that provides Jewish education on all topics ranging from spirituality to current events. It is a place where Jews young and old, singles, students, and married families of all affiliations can come to connect with their heritage through classes, lectures, seminars, and retreats.

The Jewish Education Center of South Florida is a non-affiliated organization where Jews can learn about their heritage through lectures, classes, and seminars. We provide quality Jewish education that is relevant to modern life. All who attend our events are respected for who they are. They are assisted in conducting their own quest at their own pace.'

Jewish Awareness? Not quite the whole truth I think. A non affiliated organization? Oh please. Completely 100% affiliated with Yeshivish Orthodox Judaism.

4. Atlanta

'Whether you're Reform, Conservative, Orthodox, unaffiliated or somewhere in between, the Atlanta Scholars Kollel (ASK) is your most vibrant source for Jewish learning in Atlanta. Through study opportunities in various formats and locations, ASK brings a new dimension to everyday Jewish life.

Led by a team of dynamic rabbis, ASK gives you the tools to connect timeless Jewish traditions with modern life. You'll learn in a nurturing environment as the rabbis open their minds to impart wisdom. In addition, the rabbis open their homes to share Shabbat, and their lives for personal family celebrations.

By uniting fellow Jews through shared joy in religious education and Judaic tradition, and by extending a friendly, upbeat, non-judgmental invitation to all Jews. ASK is building bridges in our community.'

Non Judgmental? Building Bridges? How can an organization composed 100% of Yeshivish Chareidi Jews claim to be non judgmental bridge builders, when by their very definition they cannot possibly sanction any Jewish movement apart from Orthodoxy, and even then they hardly hold of MO. Wait a minute, this is the exact same blurb as on the Phoenix site! Hmm.

5. Chicago

'an independent, non-profit outreach organization that provides Jewish educational programs at DePaul, Loyola, Northern Illinois, Northwestern, University of Chicago, UIC - Chicago, University of Illinois - Urbana/ Champaign and other campuses in Chicago. Our flagship program is a comprehensive 10-week course in basic Judaism, run twice a semester.'

'We aim to inspire, energize and educate Jewish college students so they can develop a stronger connection to their Jewish heritage, the Jewish people and the land of Israel; to instill pride in the vitality of the Jewish mission; and to create Jewish leaders.'

Not bad, but again with the 'independant' line. Independant of what exactly?

6. St Louis

'The St. Louis Kollel is an association of young dynamic Jewish scholars who have come together to share their knowledge of Jewish tradition with the general Jewish public in St. Louis. Each of these dynamic individuals has spent many years immersed in the study of Talmud and a plethora of other fundamental Jewish classical texts.

They have been brought together by a shared commitment to the values of community and education, both central tenets of our rich heritage. The Kollel provides an opportunity for all Jews to experience Jewish concepts in an engaging and stimulating environment. Participants are welcome regardless of previous Jewish educational experience.

Aware of the time constraints many face in demanding work environments, the scholars teach in homes, offices, local community facilities and even outdoors. The group consists of thirteen married couples who function as a team in order to fit the needs of the entire spectrum of the Jewish community.'

Sounds nice. They fit the needs of the entire spectrum of the Jewish community! I wonder if they tell anyone who isn't Orthodox how they're following the wrong path, and won't get as many Olam Habah points.

7. Torah Links

Unclear what exactly they are from the main site, but the Monmouth branch has this to say:

'Monmouth Torah Links is a not for profit organization, dedicated to raising the level of Jewish awareness and education in the Monmouth County area. We provide a wide variety of educational and social events designed to create a warm and non-judgmental environment for Jews of all ages to explore and experience their heritage. Our programs are open to all Jews, regardless of their education or religious affiliation.'

Again with the non judgmental! This is simply not true. If you're not following Orthodoxy, then you're not following the one true path. What could be more judgmental than that?!

Let's see what Middlesex County Torah Links has to say:

'Whether you're Reform, Conservative, Orthodox, unaffiliated or somewhere in between, Torah Links of Middlesex County is your most vibrant source for Jewish learning and living in Middlesex County. Through study opportunities in various formats and locations, and dozens of religious and social events Torah Links brings a new dimension to everyday Jewish life. Led by a team of dynamic rabbis, teachers, and mentors, Torah Links gives you the tools to connect timeless Jewish traditions with modern life. You'll learn in a nurturing environment as the rabbis and teachers open their minds to impart wisdom. In addition, the rabbis open their homes to share Shabbat, and their lives for personal family celebrations. By uniting fellow Jews through shared joy in religious education and Judaic tradition, and by extending a friendly, upbeat,  non-judgmental invitation to all Jews, Torah Links is linking Jews to their heritage in our community. '

Hmm, same kind of blurb. Seems like these guys all read from the same prayer book.

8. Long Island

No mission statement.

9. Ottawa

'JET is dedicated to providing Jewish education and inspiration to adults and families. We offer a wide variety of classes, lectures, and programs for Jews of all backgrounds, on all levels from beginners to advanced.

Our classes are offered throughout the city, including the Soloway Jewish Community Centre, community synagogues, and in private homes. Many of our classes are initiated by people who wish to enhance their knowledge of Judaism and are held in their homes.'

More deliberate vagueness. 'Jewish education and inspiration'. Not a word about Orthodoxy.

10. Providence

'The goal of the Kollel is to enhance and enrich Jewish life in and around Providence RI. This will be accomplished by providing relevant and stimulating educational programs that appeal to people regardless of age, background or level of observance. Strengthing Jewish Identity Through Learning.'

Not bad. Not a word about Orthodoxy of course, but a lot less disingenuous than some of the others.

11. Dallas

Know more. Live better. Find happiness. Learn with DATA.

If you’re thirsting for knowledge about your Jewish heritage, interested in boosting your “spiritual fitness,” or simply seeking other Jews who are at the same place in their lives as you are, DATA is for you. 

Through classes, special events, and the popular Learners’ Services on Shabbat and holidays, DATA rabbis offer you the opportunity to rediscover the richness of your Jewish heritage and much more.

The Torah. The Prophets, The Sacred Writings. This is the remarkable heritage of Judaism and, by the way, also much of the foundation of Western Civilization. But a word of caution: these texts are complex and difficult to understand without the help of trained scholars. That’s where Dallas Area Torah Association comes in.

DATA is a vibrant resource for Jewish education led by outstanding rabbinical teachers and scholars. No question is out of bounds and lively discussions are a hallmark of DATA programs.

DATA offers a rich learning environment in an atmosphere of warmth and informality. It is more than just classes and study. It is a community. DATA embraces every Jew – regardless of religious background, or lack of it. Whether it’s a lively Shabbat meal at a rabbi’s home or a quiet discussion with a DATA rabbi over coffee, you can have a personal connection with DATA.

Take us for a test drive. It could be one of the most rewarding, and important decisions you ever make.

The Dallas Area Torah Association is a non-profit, independent Jewish Learning Center. With its main center west of Preston/Forest in North Dallas, plus satellite centers in Far North Dallas and Plano, an Israeli branch, and college program, DATA offers Jews of all backgrounds and affiliations the opportunity to explore and rediscover their Jewish heritage. Through exciting classes, special events, and the popular Learners’ Services on Shabbat and holidays, DATA offers you a variety of free or low-cost ways to learn and enjoy the company of folks who are looking for the same thing. 

Attend a DATA program, service, or class and you are likely to find Jewish adults ranging in age from the late teens and 20s to 60+ and from every background –from Reform to Orthodox to unaffiliated to everything in between. They are drawn to DATA not only by the content but by the engaging, thought-provoking, yet warm and inviting atmosphere. DATA is more than a learning resource. It also is a community of Jews who love being Jewish and who welcome all who share that passion. Any Jew who wants to spend a Shabbat or holiday in the company of other Jews can contact a DATA rabbi and be assured of finding a place where they will feel welcome.

DATA also is known nationally as the Flagship of the Kollel Movement. Through the Dallas Kollel – a center for the advanced study of The Torah, Talmud and other Jewish texts – DATA trains the next generation of rabbinic teachers and scholars who will serve Jewish communities far and wide. These rabbis and their families will greatly enrich our community for the years that they are with us. 

Oh boy, where do I even start with this infomercial?! I'll just pick on one line - 'DATA embraces every Jew'. Of course they do! As long as you embrace their Orthodox fundamentalism. But if you think Conservative Judaism is the correct derech then you're out of luck. They can't recognize your marriages, your conversions, they may not even drink your wine. But they'll embrace you! They'll even gladly take your money. Just don't offer them a drink.

12. Seattle

The Seattle Kollel is a Jewish community organization of Rabbis who live in Seattle and are working to strengthen the quality of Jewish education throughout the Pacific Northwest. They teach classes in a variety of settings from Synagogues to Starbucks. The Rabbis who make up the Seattle Kollel pursue advanced studies in the afternoon, and are available mornings, at lunchtime, evenings or weekends for teaching and outreach programs.

The Hebrew Root of the word Kollel is Klal, which means group or community. The Seattle Kollel is funded, organized and operated by the local community. The Kollel offers a wide spectrum of study and discussion opportunities in locations from Vancouver, BC to Eugene, OR; from Port Angeles to Yakima.

Programs are offered for Jewish men, women and children of all backgrounds and affiliations in a non-judgmental atmosphere. Whether you are just learning the Aleph-Bet or are studying advanced Talmud; whether your interest is in the basic tenants of Judaism or you are working through the deeper aspects of Jewish philosophy, the Kollel’s combination of group and one-on-one learning can help you connect to Judaism in new ways. The Kollel also organizes hikes and other social events for fun and learning.

Again with the 'non judgmental' nonsense! But at least they offer hikes.

Conclusion

I think it's pretty clear that almost all of these institutions seem to be spinning the same shpiel:

1. Emphasis on learning, not observance
   
2. Emphasis on how it's open to all Jews, Reform, Conservative etc & is independant
   
3. Emphasis on being non judgmental
   

Is this disingenuous? Of course, and here's why.

1. Learning, not observance

Please, nobody is out to create Maskilim here. The obvious and only real end game is to create Observant i.e. Orthodox Observant people. The gameplan is that through the learning, people will get connected, start coming for shabbos meals etc, and eventually get hooked in. So why does only one of these sites (lA) explicitly mention that their goal is to get people to be more observant? Why does every other site talk in vague terms about 'awareness', 'culture', 'heritage', but never 'observant' or 'Orthodox'. Why? Because they are being disingenuous.

2. Open to all Jews / Independant

Each organization stresses how it is 'non affiliated' or 'independant'. And of course not one site EVER mentions the word Orthodox. Why is this? Again, it's all part of the disingenuousness. They don't want to scare people off with the truth, at least not at first. Pretend to be a generic organization of do good Rabbis with NO AFFILIATION to anything except our heritage. Technically, there is no umbrella Orthodox association like there is in Reform or Conservative, so technically they're not exactly lying. But looking at the bios of all these Rabbis it's abundantly clear that every single one of them is Yeshivish Chareidi, ranging all the way from Ohr Someach to Lakewood, and every yeshivish Chareidi stop in between. 100% affiliated with Yeshivish Orthodoxy. Guaranteed.

3. Non Judgmental

Almost every site emphasizes time and again how 'non judgmental' they are. Of course this is partly to counter the 'perception' (reality) that Orthodox Jews are judgmental, and partly to make people feel at ease with something different. But the reality is that Orthodoxy by definition IS Judgmental, it HAS to be. Orthodoxy, even Modern Orthodoxy cannot accept pluralism. cannot accept kefirah, and has very strict lines on what is 'allowed' and what is not. It's as simple as that. Calling yourself 'non judgmental' while subscribing to a fundamentalist worldview of the Yeshivish variety is the height of disingenuousness. 

Now please don't get me wrong. I know many people in these kollels and they are good people. I'll even be dan lekaf zechut and blame it all on the marketing departments. But please, a little more honesty in advertising. Don't pretend to be 'non affiliated'. Don't pretend it's all about 'learning'. Don't pretend to be not Orthodox.

Los Angeles wins the honesty competition here, followed by Providence for brevity. Dallas loses big time for exuberance bordering on Informercialism. 

Atlanta and Phoenix get penalized for copying each other's blurb word for word, and claiming to be 'building bridges'. I know people in both kollels and they do a lot of good work, but they aint building any bridges, that's for sure. At least not any two way bridges, which is kinda the point in building bridges, no? 

I mean, if they were truly serious about building bridges between the Reform, Conservative and Orthodox movements, then surely the kollel should sponsor events whereby the local Conservative Rabbi gets to lecture on his ideology to the frum community. Wouldn't that be fair?

So is that going to happen? Somehow I don't think so. And if you believe it will, then boy do I have a bridge to sell you. A one way bridge of course.