Yom Yisrael!

Emily Shapiro, our Israel Educator, sends this report about Yom Yisrael!

On Thursday, we celebrated “Yom Yisrael.” Although we incorporate Israel throughout the summer, we also have a tradition to dedicate one specific day each machzor (session) to explore and highlight our connection to Israel. As always, we aim to celebrate the joy and vibrancy of Israeli culture while also acknowledging and making space for the challenges of this time.

A group of teens wearing blue clothing and Israeli flags stand in a circle laughing and talking inside a bright, busy hall decorated with banners, while other groups are seated at tables in the background.

The Israeli “vibe” started early on at aruchat boker (breakfast) when chanichim (campers) arrived dressed in blue and white, contemporary Hebrew music blared, and our Cafe Roo Brew was transformed into Cafe Aroma. Our mishlachat counselors even arrived in costumes dressed as famous Israeli pairs.

A collage shows children doing activities related to Israel, including sorting items, writing, and gathering for a discussion. An Israeli flag and an “aroma” café sign are visible in the background of some images.A collage of six photos showing pairs of people in various playful costumes and poses, some wearing themed accessories or holding humorous signs, all smiling or making funny faces at an indoor event.

Throughout the morning, all tzrifim (bunks) competed in an Israel-themed human bingo with prompts like “someone who did a gap year in Israel,” “someone who has family in Israel,” “someone who did reserve duty.”

During the day, many of our regular chugim had an Israeli “twist.” For example, in outdoor cooking, campers made shakshuka, pita, and hummus. In Omanut, they learned about Israeli cartoonist Kariel Gardosh, and his iconic cartoon character, Srulik.

On the agam, a “mashat” – a coordinated formation of boats – sailed in solidarity with the Israeli hostages.  Click here to read and see more about this Israel programming on our agam!)

During the day, we set up a filming of “Slicha al HaShe’ela” (or “excuse me for asking”) – a popular Israeli TV series where individuals from specific groups sit in front of a camera and respond to difficult questions submitted by the public. We asked Ramah staff members – both Israeli and American – to share their thoughts on questions about their personal experiences post-Oct 7th. It was a meaningful experience for both those who shared and those who listened.

A collage of photos shows people being interviewed on camera under a white tent. Interviewees sit on a stool by a sign with Hebrew text while interviewers film them with cameras and ring lights. One photo shows an empty chair.

We ended the day with a touching performance by three of our Israeli campers of Idan Reichel’s song “Lehaamin,” “to believe,” with the hopes and prayers for healing and peace.  You can watch the beautiful video at the top of this blog!

A group of smiling teenagers in swimsuits pose on a sandy lakeshore, holding an Israeli flag. Trees and hills surround the calm lake, with docks and kayaks visible in the background under a clear sky.A group of people in swimsuits stands on a dock by a lake, some smiling at the camera. One person holds an Israeli flag. Pine trees and hills are visible in the background; one person is on a paddleboard at the dock’s edge.

A group of thirteen teenagers stand outdoors on grass in front of houses and trees, smiling and holding two large Israeli flags. Most are wearing blue and white clothing. It is sunny with a clear blue sky.

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