Israel and Overseas Affairs Department in Full Swing

Fostering connections to Israel is an important part of Federation’s commitment to building a vibrant and enduring Jewish community. To that end, our Israel and Overseas Department keeps our community connected to Israel through local celebrations, education and advocacy. The department is in full swing this month, planning and delivering various events and programs.

High School Debates
Tonight, 73 students from Pacific Torah Institute, Shalhevet Girls High School, York House School, Torah High, and King David High School will participate in Federation's Annual High School Debates at King David High School. Topics include:

Grade 8:
Be it resolved that the security fences in parts of the West Bank should be removed.

Grade 9-10:
Be it resolved that Israel should bomb or otherwise disable Iran’s nuclear facilities.

Grade 11-12:
Be it resolved that Israeli military personnel should be compelled to follow orders to remove settlers when ordered to do so.

Public Speaking
On April 27th, the 22nd Annual Public Speaking Contest will take place at the JCCGV. Students in grades four through seven are invited to compete by registering online. For more information, please contact Shelley Goldberg by email sgoldberg@jewishvancouver.com or 604.257.5100.

Taglit-Birthright Israel
Spring and summer applications are in, and planning is underway! Enormous interest was seen, with over 125 applicants from Vancouver. Interviews will soon be under way, beginning the week of March 22nd.

To be notified when registration opens next, visit www.israelforfree.com

Israel Advocacy Updates
Are you a Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) member? If so, please visit the MEC website today and vote yes on special resolutions 1 through 5. For more information on this initiative, click here.

To receive Israel Advocacy updates, please click here.

“It's About Time” Mission to Israel
Every Passover we say, “Next year in Jerusalem.” Why wait until next year? Join Federation’s upcoming mission, October 3-12, 2010 – it’s about time.

Highlights
• See the impact of your contributions first-hand.
• Get to know our partnership region of the Upper Galilee Panhandle, and see our programs at work.
• Learn what’s happening behind the scenes from Israel’s political, academic and military experts.
• Experience modern and historical Israel including Tel Aviv, the Golan Heights and Kabbalat Shabbat at the Kotel, with optional tours to Massada and the Dead Sea.

Register now, or contact us if you are interested in attending an information session or obtaining more details. To view the itinerary, click here.