Moving Traditions

Together with you, we are making a difference in the lives of preteens and teens across North America—which we hope comes through loud and clear in this annual report. Since 2005, Moving Traditions has empowered more than 28,000 preteens and teens by partnering with more than 500 Jewish institutions of all affiliations. In the coming year, with your help, Moving Traditions will embolden many more Jewish youths to thrive by strengthening themselves, their relationships, and our society.

Moving Traditions is adopting the term b-mitzvah in place of b’nai mitzvah in all of our materials, including changing the name of our program to the “Moving Traditions B-Mitzvah Family Education Program.” This decision is based on trends in gender fluidity and our respect for the need to continually refine our offerings so that all people feel seen and embraced by Jewish life.

By Jennifer Anolik, eJewish Philanthropy
So, how can we as Jewish educators and adults—who may be overwhelmed ourselves—help teens in this moment? One important element in a supportive and compassionate conversation about Israel and antisemitism is the cultivation of a safe and brave space. Moving Traditions teen groups, Rosh Hodesh, Shevet, and Tzelem all prioritize this: an atmosphere in which teens are valued, respected, and encouraged to share a diversity of thoughts and feelings.