MISSION

The Network | Jewish People of Color of Greater Ann Arbor is an informal group of individuals and families drawn together by our shared identity. Together, we are building a network of mutual support and information sharing, a place for community and connection. Our multi-denominational participants represent the broad spectrum of Judaism from Orthodox to Jewish Cultural Society and those who are unaffiliated.

In two years’ time, JPOC has grown to approximately 50 adults and children, including people from as far as 100 miles away. The Network stages events throughout the year, some co-sponsored with other Jewish organizations, and enjoys an ongoing collaborative relationship with the Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor.

The Network represents the JPOC community on the Community Leadership Council, the Jewish Community Strategic Planning Committee, and the Jewish Community Relations Committee Advisory Board of the Jewish Federation of Greater Ann Arbor; also on the Executive Committee of the Black-Jewish Coalition of Washtenaw County.

OBJECTIVES

Representation & Empowerment 

• Lift up JPOC in the Jewish community.
• Empower the local JPOC population by making it clear that we exist and that we are normative within the Jewish community. 

Community & Camaraderie 

• Provide a safe and embracing environment for JPOC families and individuals, no code switching required.
• Provide informal socializing opportunities for adults and families.
• Provide multi-denominational opportunities to celebrate select Jewish holidays. 

Education & Advocacy 

• Represent JPOC interests and priorities within the Jewish community.
• Support JPOC relations within the Jewish community if/as requested.
• Provide educational opportunities for and/or about JPOC.