M² Institute Reveals Jewish Professionals' Lack of Hope Amid Global Conflicts

What's Happening?

The M² Institute for Experiential Jewish Education conducted a survey of 950 North American Jewish communal professionals, revealing a significant lack of hope among them. The survey, intended as a positive gesture for the upcoming Rosh Hashanah holiday, instead highlighted that only 24% of respondents often feel hopeful about the future. This contrasts sharply with a 2024 study by the Human Flourishing Labs, which found 82% of the general U.S. population felt hopeful. The survey results were influenced by ongoing global conflicts, including the Iran-Israel war and the situation in Gaza, which have exacerbated internal communal divisions and leadership challenges. Despite the grim outlook, many professionals still find energy and hope in their work's impact and peer support.

Why It's Important?

The findings underscore a critical need for addressing morale and cohesion within Jewish communities, particularly as global conflicts and antisemitism rise. The lack of hope among Jewish professionals could impact their effectiveness and the broader community's resilience. The survey suggests that fostering a sense of belonging and recognizing the impact of communal work could help mitigate these challenges. Organizations are encouraged to share success stories not only with boards and funders but also with staff, emphasizing their role as significant stakeholders. This approach could strengthen community ties and improve morale, potentially leading to more effective advocacy and support for Jewish causes.

What's Next?

The M² Institute's report recommends building communal belonging through rituals and learning, and helping staff recognize their impact. These strategies aim to enhance morale and cohesion within Jewish communities. As the situation in Gaza continues, further divisions may arise, necessitating ongoing efforts to address these challenges. Organizations may need to implement the report's suggestions to foster hope and resilience among professionals, ensuring they remain effective in their roles despite external pressures.