Global Jewish Educators Convene in Israel to Strengthen Identity
Translated & summarized from Makor Rishon by baba
More than 250 Jewish educators from 34 countries met in Israel for a conference to address challenges in fostering Jewish identity and connection to Israel. The event, organized by the Ministry of Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism, aimed to provide support and resources amid rising global antisemitism. Participants shared strategies and were honored for their work, returning to their communities with renewed inspiration and a global network.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Over 250 Jewish educators from 34 countries attended a conference in Israel.
- The event focused on strengthening Jewish identity and connection to Israel among students.
- Rising global antisemitism was a key concern addressed by the educators.
- The conference was organized by the Ministry of Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism.
- Eight educators received the new International Jewish Educator Award.
- The initiative supports over 850 Jewish schools in more than 50 countries.
Over 250 Jewish educators from 34 countries gathered in Israel this week for the first International Jewish Educator Conference, seeking solutions to challenges in fostering Jewish identity and connection to Israel among students worldwide. The event, organized by the Ministry of Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism in partnership with the UnitEd organization and the Prime Minister's Office, aimed to address concerns amplified by the recent surge in antisemitism following the October 7th attacks.
Participants shared experiences and strategies for connecting young people to their Jewish heritage and Israel, with a particular focus on the difficulties faced by teenagers. "The future of the Jewish people is built daily in schools around the world," stated Avi Cohen Scali, Director General of the Ministry of Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism. "Jewish educators are the ones who give the next generation a Jewish identity and a sense of belonging to Israel. Therefore, their connection to Israel and Jewish identity is critical."
During the four-day conference, educators engaged in lectures, workshops, and discussions, exchanging ideas and gathering inspiration. One hundred teachers from Israel also participated, fostering a connection between Israeli and diaspora educational challenges. Eight outstanding educators were honored with the International Jewish Educator Award, a new initiative recognizing their dedication.
Educators like Anna Mazen from Bulgaria expressed relief at finding a supportive community, noting the isolation often felt by Jewish educators abroad. Andrea Kazantz from Uruguay highlighted the professional and personal growth gained, emphasizing a renewed sense of belonging. Alina Tabachenko from Ukraine shared the poignant reality of teenagers hiding their Jewish identity due to the ongoing war and antisemitism, underscoring the critical importance of the conference for maintaining Jewish continuity.
The conference is part of a broader initiative by the Ministry of Diaspora Affairs and UnitEd to support over 850 Jewish schools in more than 50 countries, focusing on strengthening Jewish identity, deepening ties to Israel, and encouraging local community involvement. The educators returned to their respective countries equipped with new tools and a strengthened global network to continue their vital work.
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