Healing from hate: NCJW and the power of small conversations

Across Canada, antisemitism has been harming people’s well-being. What difference can one conversation make?

By NCJWC – Edmonton Section

(AJNews) – One conversation can connect people who have felt isolated or frightened. It may even prompt those who have casually brushed off instances of antisemitism as “no big deal.” From the casual comment to the violent attacks, every moment of racial and religious violence adds to poor outcomes for health and well-being.

Seeing this, the National Council of Jewish Women of Canada (NCJWC) applied successfully for a grant from Heritage Canada to engage 3,000 people across the country in conversations about antisemitism. The small group conversations, happening regularly through 2029, are meant to surface antisemitism in ways that bring healing to those who experience it.

Says Linda Steinberg, president of the NCJWC, “by initiating small conversations in communities across the country and sharing our experiences of antisemitism as well as discussing the implications of hatred for Canadian society, we believe that we can contribute to greater mutual understanding.”

Edmonton’s first conversation takes place on Wednesday, October 14 at Beth Israel Synagogue. Participants will hear from a national panel about the effects of antisemitism on individuals and communities. Storyteller Ashley Kravetsky will then share how hatred has affected her life before participants break into small group conversations.

Ashley, a Jewish Latina in Edmonton, is a strong advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights. She works with organizations and community groups to promote inclusion, raise funds, and support marginalized communities.

“I decided to share my story because I felt very alone. I didn’t really understand why I was being treated the way I was, and when I shared my story, I was met with similar stories from others, making mine feel less of a personal attack, and making it easier for me to understand that I was not the problem, rather, a problem that was occurring to the Jewish people in our country and beyond.”

Jodi Zabludowski, president of NCJWC – Edmonton Section, agrees. “I am incredibly proud to see the Power of Small Conversations take place in Edmonton from a meaningful National initiative.  At a time when antisemitism, hate, and division can feel overwhelming, we believe change can begin with something as simple and powerful as a conversation. By bringing people together to listen, share personal stories and learn from one another, we can build understanding, strengthen our communities and create a safer, more compassionate Edmonton, Alberta, and Canada. I encourage everyone to take part, because every conversation has the power to make a positive difference.”

For Ashley, there is hope in participating. “Attending this event can help others find strength and tools to push through their difficult times, and to find new friends and support. Community building is so very important when one feels so very ostracized and alone.”

Special thanks go to the Edmonton Jewish Community Charitable Foundation for their generous financial support of this event.

Tickets are open to everyone who is willing to have respectful and productive conversations.

Event details: Click here to register 

Wednesday, October 14, 2026
5:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Beth Israel Synagogue, 131 Wolf Willow Road NW
A light, dairy kosher meal will be available
No cost