A Shared Society Divided

INTRODUCTION

Israel’s diverse population is often viewed as being divided along political, socio-economic, religious, ethnic, and other lines. Indeed, the diversity represented by the many faces of Israel—including secular and religious Jews, Haredim, Ashkenazim, Mizrahim, immigrants from the Former Soviet Union, Ethiopia, and scores of other countries; Jews and Arabs—offers a meaningful way to tell the story of the country.

The resources in this collection explore how, why, and when the shared society of Israel becomes divided. Learners will engage with many of the challenges and opportunities that accompany the diversity of people who make up Israeli society. The significance of multiple waves of immigration and the prominent role of protest in Israeli civic culture are examples of areas explored in this collection.

We encourage you to use this collection as befits your learners and setting. Use the entire collection (all FAQs and Questions Being Asked), individual topics, or individual activities. Feel free to adapt, replace, or add to the resources to help them meet your needs.

The following discussion will introduce learners to the themes and questions with which they will engage throughout the entire collection.

DIVERSITY

Ask learners:

- - What comes to mind when you hear the word “diversity”?
  - Do you think American society is diverse? If so, what do you think makes American society diverse? Do you think American society welcomes diversity?

Note to educator: Encourage learners to list many different elements: race, nationality, political beliefs, gender, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, language, etc.

- - When thinking about American society, what do you think are the merits of diversity? What challenges do you think are posed by diversity?
  - What do you know about the diverse people who make up Israeli society?

Note to educator: Encourage learners to list whatever and whomever they can think of, and explain that the ensuing activities will allow them to learn further and engage deeper with this question.

SUB-TOPICS INCLUDE:

IMMIGRATION AND INTEGRATION

The Diverse Communities of Israel

Millions of Jews have immigrated to Israel since 1948. Who are they, when did they arrive, and how have they integrated culturally and politically? How is their heritage and legacy ultimately remembered or forgotten?

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PEOPLE AND PROTESTS

The Who, What, and Why of Civic Unrest

Civic activism is a cornerstone of Israeli society and politics. This resource examines the various kinds of protests that have taken place in Israel, the reasons Israelis have protested, and the symbols and language of various Israeli protest movements.

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ARAB CITIZENS OF ISRAEL

Communal and National Identities

Israel’s diversity goes far beyond its Jewish community. Representing more than 20% of the population, Arab citizens of Israel are key to Israeli society. Who are they, how do they identify, and what challenges do they face?

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