^{By Aliza Becker, Coordinator, Community Education and Support}
Wishing you a joyful and meaningful Passover, filled with love, connection and tradition, as we come together to celebrate freedom and renewal.

Passover often brings together multiple generations and diverse perspectives around the seder table. In today’s polarized world, thoughtful planning can foster civil dialogue across differences, allowing everyone to appreciate the richness that such diversity offers.

In For Such a Time as This: On Being Jewish Today, Rabbi Elliot Cosgrove emphasizes the importance of humility in asserting knowledge. He reminds us that truth is elusive, and that admitting doubt is a virtue, not a weakness. Above all, he asserts that listening, rather than speaking, is our most powerful communication tool.

In the spirit of Rabbi Cosgrove’s words, we offer guidelines to help cultivate thoughtfulness and respect in our conversations at the seder table.

1. Enter with an open mind and heart

Approach each conversation with a spirit of openness. Set aside preconceived assumptions about others based on their age, gender, profession, denominational affiliation, political beliefs, etc. The seder is a time to come together, and an open heart can bridge even the widest divides.

2. Show respect and empathy for everyone

Treat others with kindness and respect, regardless of what you think about their point of view. It can be helpful to identify something positive about each person you engage with and share it openly. Doing so can help prevent the tendency to demonize those with differing opinions and offer support to anyone whose perspective might be considered controversial or marginal in your group.

3. Cultivate curiosity

Show genuine interest in what others have to say. Conversations with those who see things differently can be a chance to learn and perhaps reconsider your own assumptions. By stepping outside our echo chambers, we often find opportunities to sharpen our thinking and broaden our perspectives.

4. Encourage participation

Make sure everyone is invited to engage in conversation. Keep in mind that not everyone may feel ready to speak; some might need time to formulate their thoughts or feel uncomfortable with the topic. If you notice a quieter person, you could say, “Is there anyone who hasn’t spoken yet and would like to share their thoughts?”

5. Discourage conversation domination or frequent interruptions

If a few individuals dominate, encourage balanced participation with, “Let’s give others a chance to speak.” For frequent interrupters, kindly say, “Let’s let Rachel finish her thought.” If tensions rise, take a break to read from the Haggadah, sing a song, share a past seder story or introduce a lighter topic to reset the mood.

6. Close the conversation thoughtfully

At some point, you may want to wrap up discussion on a particular topic, especially if the conversation has become heated. You might encourage closure by saying, “What do you say we wrap up this topic for now?” You could suggest revisiting the discussion over dinner or after the seder for those interested in continuing.

These guidelines are designed to foster a thoughtful and respectful atmosphere at your seder table. In some instances, you may choose to ask your guests to avoid current political discussions to maintain harmony. Alternatively, you might decide to delay such conversations until after dinner or once the children have left the table. Ultimately, there is no substitute for your own fresh thinking in considering the unique dynamics of your gathering.

I wish you and yours a most deep, peaceful and renewing Passover.

Passover resource list