It was an evening of insight, relevance and inspiration.
A memorable Black and Jewish America Fireside Chat featuring a powerful and engaging conversation between renowned literary critic, professor and filmmaker Henry Louis Gates, Jr., and UNCF President and CEO Dr. Michael L. Lomax, held at The Temple, the oldest synagogue in Atlanta.
Nearly 500 guests joined us from across metro Atlanta, including students and educators from Clark Atlanta University, Georgia State, Emory, Spelman, Morehouse and Kennesaw State for this historic occasion.
It was one of the proudest moments of my life as African American and Jewish and someone who has spent the balance of my professional career fostering dialogue between these communities and created Black and Jewish Leaders of Tomorrow.
Following the Fireside Chat, UNCF hosted a special Unity Dinner, which created a meaningful space for dialogue, reflection and connection — highlighting the rich history and shared experiences of African American and Jewish communities.
The Tikkun Olam Initiative, a collaboration between UNCF, Blue Square Alliance Against Hate, founded by Robert Kraft, philanthropist and president and CEO of the New England Patriots and Hillel International, connects students from historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and from Hillels at predominantly White institutions (PWIs). Launched in 2024, the program builds cross-cultural understanding and cultivates a new generation of leaders committed to social justice and equity.
“Tikkun olam”, a phrase in Hebrew that means repairing the world, is a Jewish concept of responsibility to transform and address systemic issues and promote social justice. The Tikkun Olam Initiative fosters meaningful relationships between Black and Jewish students at HBCUs and PWIs. The program engages students in immersive experiences that encourage dialogue and collaboration as well as raise awareness of the historical and contemporary challenges faced by both communities. By confronting legacies of hate and discrimination, Tikkun Olam Initiative participants explore narratives of resilience, advocacy and the intertwined struggles for justice.
Through this partnership, UNCF, Blue Square Alliance Against Hate and Hillel International host Unity Dinners across the country that bring together hundreds of HBCU and Hillel students to strengthen Black–Jewish partnerships. After reaching more than 600 students in 2025, the initiative is on track to engage more than 2,100 students in 2026.
The Jewish–Black Unity Dinners demonstrate how intentional spaces for dialogue can transform cross-community relationships and empower students to lead with empathy, courage, and vision. As we continue to expand this work, we strengthen the foundation for long-term allyship and collective action. Through these dinners, Tikkun Olam will continue to focus on advancing a future where Black and Jewish communities stand together against injustice and build toward shared liberation.
Continued investment in this work will expand our reach and deepen our impact across the communities we serve.
The relationship between Black and Jewish communities has deep roots in American history, marked by shared struggles against systemic oppression and a mutual commitment to civil rights. From the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, where Jewish activists stood shoulder to shoulder with their Black counterparts, to the present-day challenges posed by anti-Semitism and racism, both communities have demonstrated resilience and solidarity. However, the complexities of this relationship have often been overshadowed by societal divisions and misunderstandings.
The legacy of figures like Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel, who marched alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., serves as a reminder of the profound connections that have historically existed between these communities. Yet, as we navigate the contemporary landscape of hate and discrimination, it is crucial to re-engage in these discussions and recognize our shared humanity.
The concept of UNITY Dinners provides a platform for Black and Jewish students to engage in meaningful conversations about their histories, challenges, and aspirations. These dinners are not merely social gatherings; they are opportunities for education, empathy, and action. By breaking bread together, participants can share personal stories, confront misconceptions, and explore the intersections of their identities.
By encouraging dialogue about the historical experiences of both communities, participants can better appreciate each other’s struggles and triumphs.
In light of recent surges in anti-Semitism and racism, these dinners serve as a proactive response. By building alliances and understanding, participants can become advocates against all forms of hate.
The partnership emphasizes the importance of collaboration across cultural lines. By working together, both communities can amplify their voices and work towards common goals.
Engaging college students in these conversations empowers them to take leadership roles in their communities. The next generation has the potential to shape a more inclusive future.
Robert Kraft’s involvement in this initiative highlights the importance of leadership in fostering social change. As a prominent philanthropist and successful businessman, Kraft has utilized his platform to support various causes, with a particular focus on education and community development. His commitment to the UNITY Dinners underscores the belief that unity is not just a lofty goal but a necessity.
The Blue Square Alliance and Hillel International bring additional resources and networks to the table, ensuring that the conversations initiated during these dinners can extend beyond the dining room. These organizations are instrumental in providing support and creating environments conducive to dialogue.
While the UNITY Dinners hold significant promise, challenges remain. Navigating historical grievances and contemporary issues requires sensitivity and openness. Some individuals may harbor skepticism or reluctance to engage in dialogue due to past experiences or societal narratives that perpetuate division.
However, by fostering an environment of trust and respect, these challenges can transform into opportunities for growth. The willingness of participants to listen, learn and engage in difficult conversations is essential for the success of this initiative.
UNCF’s partnership with Robert Kraft, the Blue Square Alliance, and Hillel International is a testament to the power of collaboration in the face of adversity. As Black and Jewish college students come together for UNITY Dinners, the broader community is invited to reflect on their roles in combating hate and fostering understanding.
This initiative serves as a reminder that unity is not simply the absence of conflict but the presence of compassion, empathy and shared purpose. By participating in these discussions, the next generation of leaders can contribute to a larger movement aimed at dismantling prejudices and building stronger, more inclusive communities.
At the American Jewish Congress Convention in 1958, civil rights leader Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. expressed his thoughts on the relationship between Black and Jewish communities in the United States:
“My people were brought to America in chains. Your people were driven here to escape the chains fashioned for them in Europe. Our unity is born of our common struggle for centuries, not only to rid ourselves of bondage, but to make oppression of any people by others an impossibility.”
As we witness an increase in polarization and intolerance, the efforts of the UNCF and its partners to promote dialogue between Black and Jewish communities through UNITY Dinners stand as a powerful example of how we can confront hate with understanding and solidarity. This initiative not only honors the historical legacies of these communities but also paves the way for a future where empathy triumphs over division.
The time for action is now; let’s embrace the opportunity to build bridges, foster unity and create a collective narrative that transcends hate in all its forms. Together, we can forge a path toward a more inclusive and understanding society.
