Guiding Principles

Instead of guidelines or policies, we have chosen to use guiding principles. This distinction allows for iteration and decisions to be made through discussion based on our values as the world around us changes. While this is a more complicated and nuanced approach, we are committed to continuous learning and evolving along with the needs of our staff, board, and the people we serve through our programs and services.

We recognize that contemporary manifestations of antisemitism, anti-Jewish hatred, and bigotry remain persistent dangers to all members of the Jewish community. These manifestations may include calling for, aiding, or justifying the harming of Jews; making dehumanizing, demonizing, or stereotypical allegations about Jews; using symbols and images associated with classic anti-Semitism; accusing Jews of being responsible for wrongdoing committed by a single Jewish person or group.

Therefore, UpStart will not work with any individual or entity with a history of promoting or participating in any activity defined as antisemitic, anti-Jewish hatred, or bigotry, without having engaged in a process of repair, restoration, and/or teshuva, the Jewish process of repentance, and engaging in dialogue with UpStart representatives.

• UpStart unequivocally denounces any implicit or explicit promotion of violence as determined by the UpStart Board for review through dialogue as needed.
• Mere inclusion of "Jewish" in a potential partner's mission is insufficient; alignment with UpStart's mission and vision is essential.

UpStart is committed, consistent with its mission, to be a robust forum of ideas -- presenting a range of viewpoints on issues of interest and importance to the North American Jewish community in particular, and global Jewry in general.

UpStart is dedicated to creating an atmosphere of inclusivity and does not tolerate racism, sexism, homophobia, antisemitism, able-ism, other forms of bigotry, or other extremist views.

We commit to neither accept nor grant funds from or to those who have been found to have engaged in discrimination, harassment, or assault and have not engaged in repair, restoration, and/or teshuva, the Jewish process of repentance.

UpStart aims to create an environment for all people to experience the traditions of Judaism, regardless of their political, religious, or ideological beliefs. UpStart creates a pluralistic space where people of all persuasions are invited to celebrate Judaism in connection to community.

Our approach emphasizes providing frequent and varied opportunities to engage in Jewish life, fostering diversity and a sense of belonging as essential elements for enhancing community cohesion. We prioritize supporting individuals across all generations, ensuring that every aspect of Jewish generational life is nurtured and celebrated within our community.

The Land of Israel

As an organization, we acknowledge and honor the historical significance and origins of the traditions of Judaism rooted in and around the present-day State of Israel. We recognize the ancient roots and the profound connections the land of Israel has held for the Jewish people  throughout history. We further acknowledge that the Jewish connection to this land remains a vital component of the Jewish experience and identity for many Jews today.

The People of Israel

We affirm our support for the People of Israel. We stand with the nation and its citizens, recognizing their right to self-determination, security, and prosperity. We honor and respect the rich diversity, traditions, and identities encompassed within the Israeli population and global Jews who associate as part of Am Yisrael, the Jewish People.

The State of Israel

We affirm our support for the State of Israel's right to exist as a sovereign state within secure and recognized borders. We stand committed to promoting peace, democracy, and prosperity for all inhabitants of Israel, while also advocating for constructive dialogue and cooperation to address complex challenges in the region.

We believe in a future of peaceful co-existence with regional neighbors and a viable solution with the Palestinian population. Our hope is for peace, independence, self-determination, security and prosperity for Israelis and Palestinians with full equality for all citizens.

As such, UpStart will not work with any organization that has an implicit or explicit policy denying Israel's right to exist as a sovereign and legitimate Jewish state. Criticism of specific Israeli policies alone does not warrant exclusion.

UpStart takes no formal stance on internal political issues related to the State of Israel and its government. We encourage and support open, empathic dialogue between individuals and groups with differing viewpoints. UpStart reserves the right to comment on issues of contemporary relevance through the lens of UpStart’s mission and vision, as determined by the Board and CEO.