Operation Understanding Mission and History

It is our mission...

to develop a cadre of African-American and Jewish leaders which is educated about each other's histories and cultures and can effectively lead the Philadelphia and American communities to a greater understanding of diversity. Operation Understanding identifies future leaders, exposes them to cross-cultural experiences, and provides them with the leadership and facilitation skills to promote understanding amongst their peers. The program begins a life-long process of building bridges, cultivating allies, and forging lasting friendships across cultural, racial, and religious boundaries. Through the cross-cultural exchange program and workshops, alumni programs, and city-wide conferences, Operation Understanding is able to share its message of cultural understanding with thousands of Philadelphia-area residents each year.

History
Operation Understanding was established in 1985 in response to concerns about the increasing tension and waning communication between African-Americans and Jews. The program concept was developed by former United States Congressman William H. Gray, III and George M. Ross, Managing Partner of Goldman, Sachs and Company and former Chairman of the Board of the American Jewish Committee, Philadelphia Chapter. Operation Understanding is run with support from the Philadelphia Chapter of the American Jewish Committee and the Urban League of Greater Philadelphia.