An Israel engagement and leadership virtual training conference for high school and college students

*NOW WITH A NEW BREAKOUT SESSION FOR ADULTS*
 

Sunday, May 23, 4-5:30 p.m.

Are you confused by the current outbreak of violence in Israel? Is your social media feed filled with accusations that Israel is the party to blame? Do you want to be able to advocate for Israel but don’t know what to say?

Join us for this workshop to:

• Hear first-hand, up-to-date information on the current conflict from experts in Israel.
• Learn how to respond to anti-Israel sentiment and empower yourself to become a pro-Israel advocate on social media and on college campuses from current Jewish college leaders.
   

You’ll hear from keynote speaker Neil Lazarus, an internationally acclaimed expert in the fields of Middle East politics, public diplomacy, and communications who has helped train a generation of Israeli diplomats and Birthright students. Plus, choose from a variety of breakout sessions addressing topics from how to confront anti-Semitism to an overview of Jewish life on college campuses.

Please register below for one of these breakout sessions:

FOR STUDENTS: The Challenges Facing Jewish and Pro-Israel Students on Campus
Presenter: Blake Flayton, George Washington University Class of 2022
What is BDS (Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions)? Who are Israel’s harshest critics and which college campuses are the most challenging? Learn how pro-Israel students are making Israel’s case and how you can become a Jewish leader at college, and beyond.

FOR STUDENTS: Reclaiming Zionism as a Progressive Cause: A Progressive Millennial’s Case for Israel
Presenter: Zach Schaffer, Executive Director, Council of Young Jewish Presidents
Zionism was once understood as a moral and legitimate movement. Now, many Jews argue we should abandon the “Z” word altogether. But Zionism is our people’s what, our how, and, most importantly, our why. The Zionist story has an unrivaled potential to resonate with progressives and other diverse constituencies, so let’s start telling it.

FOR STUDENTS: Inside the Israel Defense Forces
Presenter: Dr. Tuvia Book, Israel Educator and Guide
This workshop focuses on the meaning of the IDF for Jews in Israel and around the world.  Moral dilemmas faced by soldiers in the field will be examined.

FOR ADULTS: Common Misconceptions and How to Argue Against Them
Presenter: TBD

Questions? Contact Mara Gellman at mgellman@jfedgmw.org.