Notes from our first Community Circle

10/4/2025

Dear community,

Last week was our first Community Circle. Firstly, we would like to thank everyone who attended. Your investment in Temple's accountability and growth is essential to us, and we are grateful.

There were a few key (but not comprehensive) takeaways from this first meeting that we wanted to share with those who were not able to attend:

1) Attendees expressed disappointment and anger at Temple’s handling of past consent violations. We acknowledge that there was a lack of disciplinary action and of transparent accountability in response, and heard how this remains a source of pain.
2) We, as Temple organizers, have been made aware that our social capital and interpersonal relationships may create mistrust in reporting or repairing harm.
3) Temple was unclear in communicating the updated safety and reporting processes, which has led to confusion. 
4) Attendees raised a range of viewpoints and expectations around Temple's role and responsibility, and of what accountability should look like.

We know that we have much work to do to earn back your trust. We will keep you informed on that work as it progresses, and appreciate your patience as we continue to implement better strategies. 
We look forward to the next circle and to the opportunity to receive more community feedback to incorporate into our own growth.

Thank you for your interest and support while we move through these changes.
With care, temple