Young Zionists should have their views challenged and discussed, dissected and pondered upon, but I think the world takes care of this task (“Outside Of My Israel ‘Comfort Zone,’” Oct. 25). The classroom of a pro-Israel program should not be a place where students are attacked for their views, but a place for support and information. In today’s world, it’s easy to become an Israel denouncer, as many youths today do grow to be. Media warping, attention-grabbing anti-Israel protests, and events such as Israel Apartheid Week create enough debate and argument for pro-Israel students.
We should let students defend their views from lessons and history gleaned from these Israel-supportive programs, and encourage them to become advocates of Israel, rather than making them feel torn and insecure in their beliefs. The world will have all the opponents students could ever want.
Westfield, N.J. The writer is a junior at Westfield High School.
The New York Jewish Week brings you the stories behind the headlines, keeping you connected to Jewish life in New York. Help sustain the reporting you trust by donating today.
