Join the Conversation: Upstanders Canada Launches the Upstanders Idea Lounge

More than ever, we need spaces to connect, reflect, and stand together against hate and division. That’s why Upstanders Canada is launching a new online group where we can engage over ideas.

We’re calling it the Upstanders Idea Lounge. It’s like a book club – but you don’t have to read the book! It’s pretty casual. Pour a glass or wine or a cup of tea and join in.

We’re creating an inclusive online community gathering where people can come together to explore ideas that are thoughtful, inspiring, informative—and sometimes even uplifting.

Our monthly sessions will alternate between fiction and nonfiction books that help to better understand the Jewish experience, antisemitism and resilience.

We’ll provide summaries and/or excerpts in advance for older books that are available in the public domain, and a clear introductory overview for both older and newer books at the start of each session so that everyone can meaningfully take part, even if you did not have time to read in advance.

Our sessions are low-barrier, thoughtfully guided, and structured to allow for conversation even if life is too busy to get to the full reading. Each meeting will start with a short orientation—about 15 to 20 minutes—to set the stage, followed by open dialogue where everyone’s perspective is welcome.