“I mean directly intervened in the lives of those students who were being targeted, whether it was threats, bullying, harassment, or physical violence. This is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of what we’re seeing on the ground.”
Carr emphasized the importance of supporting Israeli expats in the U.S. during this challenging time, as they navigate their dual identities and grapple with the impact of events in their homeland.
As the Jewish community continues to stand in solidarity with Israel and combat rising antisemitism, it is crucial to provide support and resources to Israelis living abroad who are feeling the weight of these global challenges. Through unity and advocacy, the Jewish world can work together to create a safer and more secure future for all. The IAC has been actively involved in various activities such as handling cases, working with families, training teachers and students, and accompanying parents and families to school board meetings. Additionally, they have conducted training sessions for 2,000 public school teachers nationwide on topics like the IHRA definition of antisemitism, anti-Zionism, Jewish peoplehood, and how to recognize antisemitism. A national conference was also organized in Washington, D.C., featuring former President Donald Trump, where Carr, who served in the Trump administration, was present.
Israelis have been at the forefront of protests in support of hostages in different cities in the United States, coming together as a community. Atzili and Guttman have actively participated in these protests, writing letters, meeting with politicians, and engaging with Jewish community leaders to advocate for a hostage deal and a cease-fire.
Despite their efforts, some Israelis have faced backlash for their national identity, with instances of losing friends due to fallout from the Israel-Hamas conflict. A tech worker from Brooklyn shared her experience of feeling a sense of grief, anger, and betrayal within her liberal circles post-conflict. She expressed a deep rift in her identity and a struggle to find acceptance and authenticity in her social circles.
The tech worker, who has lived in the U.S. for 12 years, highlighted the difference in narrative between the U.S. and Israel regarding the conflict, emphasizing the need for complex conversations and understanding of multiple perspectives. The desire to return to Israel has been a recurring thought for some Israelis, including Rabbi Fraiman and the tech worker, but external factors have hindered their plans.
Amidst the challenges faced by Israeli-Americans, there have been moments of support and solidarity from unexpected sources. Guttman shared how neighbors reached out with messages of empathy and support during difficult times. Similarly, Miriam Buium, a native of Ashdod living in San Diego, expressed hope in the interactions with non-Israelis, believing in the possibility of peaceful coexistence in Israel.
Overall, the past 11 months have been a mix of struggles and silver linings for Israeli-Americans, highlighting the complexities of identity, community, and hope for a better future. To regenerate means to restore, renew, or recreate something that has been damaged or lost. It can refer to physical regeneration, such as the regrowth of tissue or cells, or it can refer to the rejuvenation of a system, organization, or environment. Regeneration is often seen as a process of healing and renewal.
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