Black & Jewish Relations: Separating Perception from Reality

About Lecture:

This lecture explores the history and contemporary dynamics of Black-Jewish relations, examining where common perceptions align with—and differ from—historical and lived realities. Joshua Washington brings his experience as a Black advocate, educator, and internationally renowned musical artist to the conversation. The program will consider opportunities for greater understanding, dialogue, and solidarity between Black and Jewish communities. Our guest moderator, Dr. Lewis Gordon, will facilitate the Q&A following the lecture. Dr. Gordon is an expert in Afro-Jewish studies and a Board of Trustees Distinguished Professor of Philosophy at the University of Connecticut.

About Scholar: Joshua Washington is Executive Director of the Institute for Black Solidarity with Israel (IBSI), where he works to strengthen relationships between Africa, Israel, and their descendants through education, advocacy, and community engagement. A professional musician known as JoDavi, he has released more than a dozen albums and singles, opened for Grammy Award-winning artists and has performed internationally in Israel, South Africa, Paris, and across the United States. A voting member of the Recording Academy, Washington continues to combine his musical career with his work in education and advocacy.