What is UJPO?
Since 1926, the United Jewish People’s Order (UJPO) has promoted secular Jewish culture and education with a commitment to social justice. Our vibrant community — founded on Yiddishkeit — comes to life through the Morris Winchevsky School, Camp Naivelt, Jewish holiday celebrations and cultural programming, and our commitment to social activism.
Our programs focus on secular celebrations of Jewish holidays, cultural events, lectures, educational forums and discussions on historical and current struggles for social justice, and participation in social justice campaigns and networks. UJPO’s current social justice priorities include support for Indigenous Rights, the Environment, Economic & Racial Justice, LGBTQ+ struggles and activism related to Israel/Palestine.
Secular Jewishness is about identifying as a Jew primarily through Jewish culture, language, and history, rather than religious ritual and practice.
Secular. Jewish. Social Justice.
Become an UJPO member
Becoming a member of the United Jewish People’s Order (UJPO) offers many benefits that cater to a wide range of interests and needs, making it a compelling choice for anyone looking to engage deeply with a culturally Jewish, social justice-oriented community. Membership is ideal for those who are passionate about cultural creation, curation, and being part of a forward-thinking community. UJPO presents an unparalleled opportunity to blend a century-old legacy with contemporary values and priorities, engaging in cultural and social activism that makes a difference. Members are welcomed into a unique Jewish space that accommodates a spectrum of identities, including activists, artists, Bundists, and progressives, fostering an inclusive environment where non-normative identities within Jewish culture can thrive.
Members also receive a 15% discount on all events and tuitions, potential Naivelt cabin ownership, discounts on cabin rentals, access to a rich Yiddish library and music inventory, and below-market mortuary benefits. Additionally, members are encouraged to participate in boards and committees, access UJPO’s physical spaces, and enjoy voting privileges that offers a stake in the organization’s direction and governance.
By joining UJPO, members not only contribute to the sustainability and growth of the organization but also participate in shaping a new vision for the future of the Jewish community, all while enjoying a sense of belonging in a vibrant and like-minded community.
Our Mission
We are a non-partisan, independent, socialist-oriented, secular cultural and educational organization with branches in Toronto and Winnipeg and members in Vancouver, Montreal, Hamilton and other Canadian centres.
We develop and perpetuate a progressive secular approach on social and cultural matters, our Jewish heritage, the Yiddish language, and holiday and festival celebrations.
We endorse the reinvention of Jewish education, musical and cultural groups, concerts, lectures, public forums and take part in social action and related community activities.
