About Widen the Circle
What We Do
Hate is on the rise. Racism, far-right nationalism, anti-Semitism, tribalism, and other forms of hate are growing in places where many never imagined they would be. The world needs a much more aggressive and clear-eyed approach to this reality or it could sweep us away.
Widen the Circle works to combat prejudice by fostering a shared understanding of the past. We seek to widen the circle of respect, reconciliation, and understanding, particularly in places where there is a history of extreme persecution of one group by another.
Our approach starts with individuals and groups who have themselves worked at the ground-level in their communities to fight prejudice and to confront the history that allowed prejudice to grow. We shine a light on those people, then add our capabilities and network to amplify their work in order to combat hate—in Germany, in the U.S., and beyond.
A nonprofit founded in 2019 with assistance from the Obermayer Foundation, Widen the Circle currently focuses its work in three areas: the Obermayer Awards, the Widen the Circle Network, and International Bridge Building.
Our Programs
Obermayer Awards
The Obermayer Awards honor people and organizations that have worked creatively and selflessly to raise awareness of Jewish history and culture in their communities, and to fight the rise of hate, prejudice, and antisemitism.
Network
The Widen the Circle Network is a platform for sharing ideas, skills, and new ways to take action for people engaged in remembrance projects and using remembrance to fight modern prejudice in Germany.
International Bridge Building
Widen the Circle builds bridges between educators and activists in the U.S. and Germany to share tactics and strategy, and with thought leaders on both sides of the Atlantic to engage with and support this work.
Our Team
Widen the Circle is a nimble organization with a small but highly talented staff. Our team is split between the United States and Germany, and we would not be able to accomplish what we have without their dedication to promoting remembrance work and fighting against hate and bigotry.