“My time in Israel was an incredible experience that opens your mind and heart to a culture and country that is often talked about by many who have never set foot on its shores.
“Israel is a modern nation like any other Western civilization. Simultaneously, it has an ancient and unique history that has influenced its exceptionally tumultuous path to nationhood and still influences its foreign policy today. Like the United States, Israelis for the most part have struck a balance of tolerance and existence among its many different cultures. It is no wonder that the United States and Israel have such strong ties.
“Because of this trip, I can now talk about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict with some authority. It’s not just a religious conflict, it’s a blend of social, religious and political. There can be legitimate claims from both sides. It’s a complex issue, but ADL has given me the tools to describe it.
“With leaders like Iranian President Ahmadinejad openly calling for the destruction of Israel, I learned that anti-Semitism is not a relic of Hitler’s Germany. Whether it is politicians or comedians reinforcing age-old stereotypes, like Jews are rich or tight with their money, or students making light of the Holocaust with Anne Frank jokes, I hope to counter such comments with a dialogue about a more respectful approach to Judaism, the Jewish people and Israel.
“Once you come here, you’ll never be the same. I hope to leave my own mark on Israel’s history and future.”
