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The Z3 Project®, an initiative of the Oshman Family JCC, invites Jewish communities around the world to imagine a thriving Jewish future through open conversation and shared purpose. Guided by three core principles – unity, not uniformity; diversity of voices; and engaging as equal partners—Z3 fosters a vibrant public square where Jews from across the political and religious spectrum can dialogue about Israel, the Diaspora, and the evolving meaning of Jewish life today.
Now, for the first time, that spirit is coming to San Diego as Z3@SAN, a two-day gathering that brings together global ideas and local voices in conversation. Built by the Lawrence Family JCC, Congregation Beth El, and community partners including Murray Galinson San Diego-Israel Initiative (MGSDII), American Jewish Committee (AJC), Stand With Us, the Israeli American Council (IAC), and Hillel of San Diego, Z3@SAN is not a conference you attend. It’s a conversation you join.
As Hannah Cohen, CJC Board Chair and Chair of Z3@SAN, explains, “This program highlights the importance of Zionism, not just as part of our past but essential to the future of Jewish peoplehood. Over the weekend, we plan to demonstrate the ways in which Zionism impacts and is impacted by future generations.”
Inspired by our beloved Tapestry programs, Z3@SAN carries that same love of learning and connection, but with a focus on dialogue over doctrine. Instead of lectures, we’re creating space for exchange: listening, questioning, and exploring what it means to live as part of a global Jewish people, with hearts rooted both in Israel and here at home.
Saturday Evening: Young Voices Leading the Way
The weekend begins Saturday, December 6, at Congregation Beth El with a Young Zionists Panel featuring essayists from Young Zionist Voices alongside young leaders from San Diego. Together, they’ll explore how the next generation defines Zionism—how it shows up in art, pop culture, and the stories we tell about who we are.
This evening will highlight the creative and complex ways young Jews engage with identity and belonging. It’s a space for curiosity, connection, and courage: the spirit of unity without uniformity that the Z3 Project champions.
Sunday: Big Questions, Real Conversations
On Sunday, December 7, we’ll gather at the Lawrence Family JCC for an Opening Plenary with Zack Bodner, President and CEO of the Oshman Family JCC and founder of the Z3 Project. He’ll explore how this movement began, and how local gatherings like Z3@SAN are reimagining the future of Jewish dialogue.
From there, participants will choose among Breakout Sessions led by Saturday’s panelists and community leaders. Topics include The Evolution of Zionism, Reclaiming Zionism Through Art, Zionism in Pop Culture, The Shattered Myth of Jewish Security, and Peoplehood as Empowerment. Each session is designed not as a debate, but as a shared exploration.
As Cohen adds, “We want to address and dispel misconceptions and challenge rising antisemitism through open dialogue, honest conversation, and community learning.”
Why Z3@SAN Matters
At a time when conversations about Israel can feel polarized or painful, Z3@SAN offers something rare: a space rooted in respect, curiosity, and belonging. It’s where ideas meet empathy, and where the future of Jewish life is shaped by those who show up.
When we listen deeply, challenge thoughtfully, and stay connected even when it’s hard, we have the opportunity to reach understanding.
Presented by the San Diego Center for Jewish Culture at the Lawrence Family JCC, JACOBS FAMILY CAMPUS, Z3@SAN Weekend runs December 6-7, 2025. Learn more and register at lfjcc.org/Z3.
Z3 Project is an initiative of the Oshman Family JCC. Z3 is a registered trademark.
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