Israel/Palestine Statement
As a Secular Humanistic Jewish organization, we affirm the humanity and dignity of all people. As a Jewish organization, we share a deep connection to the historic and current land of Israel. We condemn the ongoing treatment of Palestinians living in Gaza and the West Bank. Our humanist values guide us to understand that long term peace requires all people to be afforded equality, justice, and self-determination. Our Jewish values teach us that every life is precious and that our safety cannot be found through violence.
How We Teach and Learn: Manifesting Our Values in Challenging Times:
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Since the attacks on October 7, 2023, our community has struggled with and grieved the loss of life on October 7th, through the ongoing hostage crisis, and through Israel’s ongoing bombardment of Gaza.
Many members of our community remain engaged—bringing a range of perspectives and lived experiences—and help shape Folkshul with their commitment to truth, clarity, and connection.
Our community continues to grapple with how to apply our shared values and collective commitment to justice and humanity in these times. We offer layered and robust programming that brings multiple voices and perspectives about the Middle East. We strive to support our community and recognize a diversity of opinions. One of Folkshul’s unique strengths is our capacity for creating space for dialogue and discussion.
As a community with a focus on educating children, we have been horrified at the violence the Israeli government has inflicted on the children of Palestine. Our approach to teaching and learning about Israel is informed by this and grounded in our Secular Humanistic values. We have considered what it means to be a Jewish educational organization at this moment and our teaching recognizes every human's right to dignity and safety.
Central to Folkshul is the pursuit of personal and collective inquiry and the search for justice for all people.
What We’re Doing
1) Israel-Palestine Curriculum Study
A committee of teachers and community members is developing a curriculum, to be completed by January 2026.
2) Ongoing Programming
A series of programs and discussions, running from September to June.
3) Member-Led Impact Projects
Projects led by members to support Palestinians and inspire action.
Note: During the 2024-2025 school year, the Folkshul community continued to engage in dialogue about the attacks of October 7th, the history of the longstanding conflict and the continued violence. An interest in a public statement from Folkshul bubbled up from the community members. As a response, in June/July 2025, the community voted to add this new page to Folkshul’s website. Folkshul has made previous statements condemning the October 7th attacks, acknowledging the heartache of families waiting for news of hostages, and calling for a ceasefire to the violence.