Events and Activities Ideas:
Israel Declares Independence - May 14, 1948
On May 14, 1948, David Ben-Gurion stood before the masses gathered in Tel Aviv and declared Israel's independence. Years of Zionist dreams culminated in this moment – Israel announcing to the world that she was once again to be a free state.
Unfortunately, less than 24 hours after Ben-Gurion's announcement, the neighboring Arab nations attacked and sent Israel into her first war as an independent nation. The Jewish state survived the attack, but it cost the country many lives.
Background: Israel Declares Independence
Today, Jews throughout Israel celebrate the day that reminds them of their freedom. Schools are closed and work ceases as families take field trips or go on picnics. The day falls during the counting of the Omer, the sacred time between Passover and Shavuot, but the celebration of Israel's independence overrides the religious prohibition against listening to music during this time.
Event Ideas:
1) July 4th in May – Just like the celebrations that take place on July 4th to commemorate the signing of the American Declaration of Independence, similar festivities should be considered for Israel's Declaration of Independence. Celebrations can range from mild to wild, but celebrate. Make sure to reach out to other organizations such as the Young Democrats and Young Republicans, for they too support and value the freedoms of democracy.2) Founding Mothers and Fathers - The individuals who were present at Ben-Gurion's declaration of independence were instrumental in establishing the state of Israel. As the founding mothers and fathers of the Jewish State, they were a unique group of people with interesting life stories and experiences.
Just as we learn about the founding fathers of the United States, why not take a day to learn more about each of these individuals. There are many creative ways to achieve this, from members presenting reports on these people to creating trading cards with all the important vitals. Whatever approach you take, celebrate those who helped to form the state of Israel.
3) I Do Declare – Most people have no idea when Israel was formed, let alone what its Declaration of Independence says. A simple campaign to raise awareness is to reproduce copies of the original text of the declaration and hand them out to fellow students. Although most students will not read the full document, they will be reminded of when Israel was founded and why.
4) Founders Simulation – When Israel announced its declaration in 1948, she was also on the brink of war. Many complex issues were facing the first government of the state.
A fun and interesting exercise would be replaying of the first Knesset. Have each member represent a figurehead of a particular party or movement. Pay careful attention to more than just the issue of Israel's War of Independence. This is a “what if” game, so play around with how history may have also been shaped had you been the founders.
Good simulations take place before the game is even played. Make sure that everyone knows their role and has background information on who they are playing before the simulation. Prepared participants lead to more enjoyable and productive simulations. Also make sure that all rules for the simulation are planned and presented ahead of time.
If you are conducting a large simulation with many participants and issues, try to get campus media and local media coverage for the event. There is nothing more newsworthy than locals trying to solve world issues!
Alternative Dates:
Israel Week, Yom Ha'atzmaut, Ben Gurion's Birthday, Golda Meir's BirthdayResources:
USD – Hagshama Information Department, Israel Embassy and Consulates Jewish Agency World Zionist Organization.
This article also belongs to the following subjects:
Judaism
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Holidays with a Twist
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Yom Ha'atzmaut
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