Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Year of Civil Discourse (YCD)?

The Year of Civil Discourse is a community‑led initiative that trains Louisvillians to turn difficult conversations into learning opportunities—grounded in Jewish values and designed to foster safety, build skills, and strengthen connections across differences.

Why now?

Polarization, rising antisemitism, and complex debates are straining relationships locally and nationally. YCD chooses skills, respect, and relationships over division to build community resilience and help us navigate conflict safely.

Who is leading this effort?

This is intentionally community‑led, no single organization is in charge. A small group of Louisville Jewish community members are coordinating the effort.

What values guide YCD?

• Machloket l’shem shamayim (disagreement for the sake of heaven)
• Eilu v’eilu (wisdom in multiple truths)
• Kavod (honoring the person before the point)

Program & Timeline

What are the core components of the program?

• Training in Constructive Dialogue: in partnership with Resetting the Table, using a proven approach to equip a core group to engage in and facilitate dialogue.
• Collective Learning: facilitator‑led gatherings (readings, films, webinars) on complex topics related to Jewish identity.
• Interactive Speaker Series: public events with speakers who model civil discourse.

When is the initial facilitator training?

Training is scheduled for November 2025 (evenings on November 11–12, 2025).

Is there a cost to participate?

No. It’s free to apply and participate in the initial training.

Who should apply?

Adults 18+ who want to move away from bias, can commit 3–4 hours, and are current or aspiring leaders in the Jewish community who are passionate about sustaining dialogue within Jewish Louisville and extending it to the broader community.

What’s the application timeline?

• Apply by: October 1, 2025
• Notifications by: October 15, 2025

How do I apply?

Use the “Apply Now” form linked from the website’s section titled “Interested in becoming a trainer?” (yocdlouisville.org).

What happens after the November training?

Graduates help lead facilitated conversations, participate in the collective learning series, and contribute to the speaker series—with the possibility of continued training after November.

Approach & Participation

Is YCD partisan?

No. The goal is to seek understanding and the communal good rather than “winning,” centering dignity (kavod), curiosity, and responsibility to one another.

Do I need previous facilitation experience?

Prior experience isn’t required. The cohort welcomes current and aspiring leaders who want to build dialogue skills.

What topics will be discussed?

Sessions will focus on pressing and often controversial topics related to Jewish identity in a polarized environment, including areas where viewpoints strongly differ.

Who is the training partner?

YCD partners with Resetting the Table, a nationally recognized organization that equips communities for courageous conversations on difficult topics.

Logistics

How much time should I plan for?

Expect an initial 3–4 hour time commitment for the application/introductory phase and evening training sessions in November, with additional opportunities thereafter.

Will there be other ways to engage if I’m not in the cohort?

Yes. Community members can attend facilitated conversations and speaker series events hosted throughout the year.

Contact

How can I get in touch or learn more?

Or email yocdlouisville@gmail.com.

Use the contact form on the website (yocdlouisville.org).