Sophia McGee and Michael Davis of Project Shema, a training and support organization focused on addressing contemporary antisemitism, will lead a special 90-minute presentation and discussion at the Library on antisemitism and understanding Jewish identity.

This event — which features a moderated presentation and Q&A with Sophia, Michael, and facilitators from Project Shema — provides an accessible but powerful introduction to the historical and modern realities of antisemitism, with an emphasis on its evolving expression in contemporary culture and politics.

By creating space for collective reflection and inquiry, the evening aims to foster a shared vocabulary and a common starting point for deeper community dialogue.

This event is part of the Library’s Common Ground Initiative, designed to break through stereotypes and provide a nuanced view that will lead to more productive conversations and greater understanding. The aim of the Common Ground Initiative is to host positive, productive conversations on how we work together to move forward as a civil society; encourage respectful, constructive dialogue; and build capacity to tackle challenging and/or controversial issues.

Understanding Jewish Identity and Antisemitism is presented by Jon and Bobbi Roth.

Please note: This event will not be livestreamed or recorded. Your only opportunity to experience the event is by attending.

Why You Should Come
To gain a better understanding of the far-reaching effects and impact of antisemitism on all of us, to strengthen allyship for and within the Jewish community, and to gain a greater appreciation of different lived experiences.

Understanding Jewish Identity and Antisemitism is a thoughtfully designed, educational experience that reflects the Library’s deep commitment to building a more inclusive, informed, and empathetic Westport. It serves as a signature program within the Common Ground Initiative — a civic engagement platform that addresses polarizing and complex issues through facilitated dialogue, evidence-based learning, and intentional community connection.

The goal of this event is to increase awareness, promote empathy, and encourage dialogue. We hope all attendees will come away from the evening with a more nuanced understanding of the challenges faced by the Jewish community and a stronger sense of community and connection to other attendees through shared learning experiences. We also hope you will feel empowered to participate in ongoing community efforts that promote equity and inclusivity and that counteract prejudice.

Everyone is welcome, including Westport residents and their neighbors, parents and families, clergy members, civic club members, community volunteers, and anyone who wants to learn more about antisemitism in an open, nurturing, and welcoming environment.

About the Speakers
Sophia McGee and Michael Davis are senior facilitators from Project Shema. Both bring a rare blend of intellectual rigor, facilitation mastery, and emotional sensitivity — qualities essential for creating a learning environment that is both challenging and affirming. Their expertise ensures that participants engage deeply with the material, fostering meaningful growth and understanding.

Partner Information
Project Shema is a training and support organization working toward a future in which collective Jewish inclusion and safety are ensured inside healthy pluralistic institutions and societies.

Built by progressive Jews, Project Shema helps folks understand Jewish identity, lived experiences, and trauma. Their depolarizing and nuanced approach strengthens allyship for and within the Jewish community, nurtures empathy for all, and honors diverse perspectives.

From Project Shema: “The word ‘shema’ comes from the Hebrew word ‘to hear,’ and it’s this concept that guides everything we do. Listening with curiosity and compassion is at the center of our relational engagement approach. We are a team with diverse identities who have invested our lives in uplifting vulnerable communities. Our goal is to help others understand or community’s diverse stories, identities, and lived experiences.”