The name, Kol Yisrael, embodies the aim and methodology of this curriculum. In Hebrew, the word Kol (כל) means “all”. While we can’t provide “all” perspectives and narratives on the questions raised here, it is our aspiration to make our tent wider, to invite more voices to the table, and to cultivate resilient empathy for diverse perspectives. Each session presents competing, value-based narratives that open a discussion not only surrounding the question at hand, but also why those who disagree have compelling reasons to do so.
In Hebrew, Kol (קול) also means “voice”. The content in these pages elevates Israeli voices, ensuring that when we teach about Israel, we do so through the stories, words, and experiences of Israelis themselves. Centering the “voices” of Israel in this curriculum has been humbling and inspiring. It is a reminder that learning about Israel as a Diaspora Jew sometimes feels like “family history” and other times feels like an anthropological study of a foreign people/culture.
This series will explore how ethnic minorities balance "becoming Israeli" with maintaining an identity rooted in their particular historical narrative. Exploring six of Israel’s ethnic groups, we will dive into questions of identity and inclusion. Over the course of six weeks, you and your students will ignite conversations about how the values of diversity and uniformity animate the public sphere in Israel and in our own Hillel spaces.
Kol Israel: Ethnic Minorities a 6 week cohort learning experience meeting every Wednesdays from 3:30-5:30 PM beginning February 1st at Hillel 818 building (17729 Plummer St, Northridge). The dates and session descriptions are as follows:
February 1 New Jews and Old Jews: Narratives of Early Pioneers and Holocaust Survivors
February 8 Erasure and Nostalgia: Narratives of Mizrachim and Jews from Arab Lands
February 15 Loyalty and Citizenship: Narratives of Israeli-Arabs and Palestinian Citizens of Israel
February 22 Tradition and Recognition: Narratives of the Beta Israel and Ethiopian Jews
March 1 Status and Dignity: Narratives of Soviet Jews and Russian Israelis
March 8 Sacrifice and Patriotism: Druze Israelis and Israel’s National Anthem
While we understand that there are at times unavoidable conflicts, we expect that participants in this fellowship will make a good faith effort to be at all 6 sessions. Upon completion of the program, you will receive a $200 stipend.
*Some time conflicts MAY be honored on an individual basis. Please reach out to Diana (dianam@hillel818.org) to speak further.
How do I sign up? Right here, right now! Just complete the application here, and Diana will be in touch.
