Disagreeing With Dignity: A Jewish Response to a Fractured World

In an Age of Division, One New Chabad Program Is Teaching Students How to Talk Again

At a moment of profound global instability—marked by war, rising antisemitism, political polarization, and the erosion of trust in institutions—educators across the United States are confronting a difficult reality: students are growing up in a culture that no longer knows how to disagree constructively.

Social media has replaced conversation with performance. Complex issues are flattened into slogans. And many students report that asking honest questions feels risky rather than encouraged.

It is in this climate that Chabad of Mineola has launched a new educational initiative aimed not at telling students what to think, but at restoring something more basic: the ability to speak, listen, and engage with one another as human beings.

The program, “Ask a Rabbi: Faith, Identity & Respect in a Diverse Society,” is a one-hour, interactive dialogue experience for high school students. It is offered both as a field visit and as an in-school program, and it is provided at no cost to participating schools.

A Response to a Growing Educational Need

Educators nationwide have expressed concern that while students are exposed to more information than ever before, they have fewer opportunities to practice civil discourse—especially around sensitive topics such as religion, identity, and prejudice.

“When we first heard about this program, it stood out because it wasn’t another lecture or assembly,” said a public high school administrator who has expressed interest in hosting it. “It’s designed to give students something they’re missing—the chance to ask real questions in a respectful setting.”

A social studies teacher echoed that sentiment, noting, “Programs like this are valuable because they model how difficult conversations should happen. That’s a skill students need, but rarely get to see in action.”

Conversation, Not Persuasion

At the center of the initiative is an open, student-led “Interview the Rabbi” conversation with Rabbi Anchelle Perl, director of Chabad of Mineola. Students are invited to ask questions on a wide range of topics, including religion and science, antisemitism, identity, ethics, stereotypes, and current social tensions.

The program includes a brief introduction to Jewish history and symbols, often through a guided visit to a cultural and religious space. However, there is no worship, prayer, or religious instruction, and the program does not seek to influence students’ personal beliefs or practices.

“This program is not about persuasion or belief,” Rabbi Perl said. “It’s about restoring something our society is losing—the ability to ask honest questions, listen respectfully, and engage one another as human beings, even when we disagree.”

Educators say that framing is precisely what makes the program appealing.

“In today’s environment, students are often afraid of saying the wrong thing,” said one guidance counselor. “A program that explicitly invites questions—and emphasizes respect over agreement—fills a real gap.”

Addressing Antisemitism Through Understanding

The program’s launch comes at a time of increased concern over antisemitism in schools and on campuses nationwide. Rather than addressing the issue through accusation or confrontation, the initiative approaches it through education and dialogue.

“What drew us to this program is that it doesn’t start with blame,” said a district administrator reviewing the program. “It starts with understanding. That’s a much more productive place for students.”

A student who reviewed the program description in advance commented, “It sounds like a place where you can ask things you normally wouldn’t say out loud, without being judged. That alone makes it worth attending.”

Leadership with Civic Perspective

Rabbi Perl brings extensive civic experience to the initiative. He is the founder of the Good Deed Awards for Long Island Teenagers, which recognizes altruism and civic responsibility among students of all backgrounds. He serves as a Commissioner on the Nassau County Human Rights Commission, is a member of the Ethics Committee of the Town of North Hempstead, and sits on the Faith Council of the Nassau County District Attorney. He is also the host of a weekly Sunday radio program broadcast from Nassau Community College.

That background shapes the program’s broader mission.

“This isn’t just about one community,” Rabbi Perl explained. “It’s about helping young people develop the tools they need to live in a diverse society with responsibility and respect.”

Why This Program Matters Now

In a time of global uncertainty and domestic tension, young people are forming their understanding of identity, belonging, and disagreement. The spaces where those lessons are learned matter.

Programs like “Ask a Rabbi” do not claim to solve polarization or eliminate prejudice. What they offer instead is foundational: a structured, respectful environment where students can practice conversation itself.

Hosted at Congregation Beth Sholom – Chabad of Mineola, Long Island NY, and available directly in schools, the program removes financial barriers and invites partnership. There are no fees or expenses of any kind.

At a time when public discourse is increasingly loud and brittle, this new initiative offers something quietly necessary: a place to sit, a question to ask, and the chance to listen.