Storytelling As Tool for Dismantling Embedded Theologies: Wrestling with Zionism

Abstract: In this interactive workshop, we will model and discuss the Wrestling with Zionism Storytelling Workshop, which we have used to support Jewish individuals in dismantling embedded theologies of Zionism. As anti-Zionist Jewish activists and scholars, we know that building a decolonial future is impossible without grappling with the ideologies that split the Jewish world. Over the past three years, we have learned the importance of sharing stories about learned Zionism in our anti-Zionist community-building work. This workshop provides a model that can be replicated in faith-based communities (Jewish and otherwise) to open up space for deconstructing embedded theologies. This workshop is open to all and will include participatory storytelling in a modified version of the workshop.

Presenter bio: Shir Lovett-Graff: Shir Lovett-Graff is a writer, scholar, and community organizer. They received their MTS in Religion, Ethics and Politics from Harvard Divinity School, where they focused on the intersection of spiritual care and conflict transformation. Their community work centers on Jewish abolitionism and building anti-Zionist Jewish community. Francesca Rubinson: Francesca Rubinson is a 3rd-year MDiv at Harvard Divinity School studying Jewish texts and history with a focus on gender, sexuality, and embodiment. She has worked as an interfaith hospital and university chaplain, and is passionate about building liberatory and inclusive Jewish community.

Affiliation: Harvard Divinity School