Operation Understanding of the District of Columbia

OUDC's students are dedicated to stamping out racism and anti-Semitism wherever they encounter it. They build bridges between the Black and Jewish communities. But, they do not stop there. They use their skills, vision and passion to bring together people of all different ethnicities, races, religions, socio-economic backgrounds and sexual orientations. Our young leaders are changing the world, one person at a time.

Our nearly 400 graduates dedicate themselves to continuing the work they began in OUDC in immeasurable ways: shaping public policy at the national, state and local levels; strengthening schools and neighborhoods as National Teaching, Teach for America, Coro, Avodah and Posse fellows; and community organizing on issues of education, workers’ rights and constructive public discourse.

OUDC builds our students' knowledge base and leadership skills through our year-long, experiential education program:

UNDERSTANDING HISTORY
Throughout the year, participants meet in locations around Washington for educational sessions and honest dialogue about slavery, the Holocaust, the Civil Rights Movement, current national and international issues, religion and spirituality, and more.

LIVING HISTORY
In July, they embark on OUDC's Summer Journey. From New York City to the Deep South, they explore their histories and create their blueprints for future activism. Each day is filled with inspirational speakers, educational tours and life-changing experiences.

MAKING HISTORY
Upon returning, OUDC's students begin the real work of creating change. They give speeches in houses of worship, facilitate workshops about stereotyping and discrimination for individuals from all age groups and find other creative ways of promoting respect and understanding.

None of our young leaders are charged for participation in our program. This ensures that we can select students with the greatest potential for leadership without regard to socio-economic status.

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