Between Hope and Despair
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YOM HAZIKARON AND YOM HA'ATZMAUT 2024 RESOURCES
How will we mark our national days this year? How can we hold on to hope and comfort one another when so many lives have been lost; when our soldiers are still in harm’s way; when our hostages are still held in Gaza; when some of our communities still sit empty; and so many people have been displaced?
The iCenter invited some of Israel’s most promising thinkers, artists, musicians, educators, etc. to share with us their insights and aspirations for this time, for Israel’s 77th year and for its future. We hope that the words, images, and melodies collected in this educational companion will inspire you and your learners to join with those who find hope in each other and in our shared purpose. Together, we will continue to fulfill the vision set more than 75 years ago in Israel’s Declaration of Independence.
ART, POETRY, AND PHOTOGRAPHY
Iris Eliya Cohen’s poetry blends yearnings and hope for a better present; a strong belief in the power of human spirit and kindness; and a tremendous sensitivity and sense of responsibility for justice. She inspires us to think about this time and dream of a better future.
Dana Lalkin, director of the photography exhibit “Local Testimony,” chose seven images to represent key values and ideas that are important ahead of Yom Ha’Atzmaut. She argues these images should guide the continued development of the state and Israeli society.
Srulik, the beloved cartoon character, has long embodied the archetypal “Sabra,” epitomizing traits like resilience, chutzpah, and ingenuity. Since October 7, Srulik has resurfaced as a cherished national emblem, albeit with a very different look.
Two poems from Israeli poetry journal Mashiv HaRuach help us consider how to hold a love that is complex and offer us the possibility of overcoming the darkness, the fear, and the anger, since they too, regretfully, are also a part of our lives.
Artist Ira Ginzburg created an original illustration that depicts her personal reflection on the situation in Israel. The image, set in the shuk at the end of the day, shows three of Israel’s founding leaders searching among the scattered leftover Jaffa oranges.
MUSIC, SPORTS, AND TELEVISION
Even musicians gather strength from other artists’ work. In Beit Avi Chai’s new video series and educational resource package, Israeli performers talk about the music that brings them hope and comfort. Watching them play songs by fellow Israeli musicians is breathtaking and inspiring.
How are the creators of one of Israel’s best sketch comedy shows thinking about Israel’s 77th year? Not surprisingly, HaYehudim Ba’im’s Natalie Marcus and Asaf Beiser turn to Biblical and modern Israeli history for a window into the big questions Israel is currently facing.
Sports teams have a special place in our hearts and in our lives. Because of that, many of the reactions in the sporting world after October 7 were all the more painful. The World Jewish Sports Museum is now considering how to tell the stories of the war through the lens of sports.
Music is an essential component of the commemoration of Yom Hazikaron and the celebration of Yom Ha’atzmaut. This year, in the wake of October 7 and the ensuing war, Israel has been living with more than seven months of music that cannot escape the shadow of current events.
THOUGHT PIECES
While the world is focused on Palestinians outside the borders of Israel, the impact of the events of October 7 on Arab Israelis cannot be ignored. Mohammad Darawshe argues that Israel needs to rebuild its education systems to elevate peace and sustainable development.
Social change entrepreneur and former Israeli politician, Rachel Azaria, explores the changing relationship between the US, the American Jewish community, and Israel in her new podcast, No Daylight. Her first episode features Dr. Einat Wilf and Michael Oren.
OTHER iCENTER RESOURCES
Since October 7, it’s become more important than ever for Israel educators to make space for challenging conversations. This resource provides practical examples, tips, and processes for supporting educators as they prepare for and facilitate challenging conversations.
In a time of great turmoil in Israel we invite you to explore or rediscover our timeless “Values in Tension” activity. It can help us better understand views that we do not share, and recognize the possibility of shared values, and the complexity of both sides—even when it may feel that there is little in common.
Get to know these Israeli chefs and explore these simple-yet-delicious recipes that you can make to bring 76 years of Israeli stories, aromas, and flavors into your own kitchens!
Almost all Hebrew words are built upon root letters called a shoresh (שׁוֹרֶשׁ), and are formed in such ways that small manipulations can create many different but related meanings.
