Despite threats of escalation: Thousands of young people from the Diaspora gather in Israel
The central summer event of the Taglit project took place this evening in a massive show in Tel Aviv. Prof. Miriam Adelson called on participants to stand firm against antisemitism: "Stand for what you believe in — Israel is your home."
Approximately 1,700 young Jews from around the world participated this evening (Tuesday) in the central summer event of Taglit-Birthright Israel at the Tel Aviv amphitheater, attended by Prof. Miriam Adelson, Taglit CEO Gidi Mark, and the chairman of the organization's Israeli board, Meir Shamir. The event concluded the peak of the organization's summer season, during which about 15,000 Jews from 34 countries arrive in Israel for tours, volunteering, and internship programs.
Despite the threats of escalation in recent days, and in the shadow of a sharp decline in tourist arrivals to Israel, thousands of participants chose to come to Israel with Taglit to experience it personally and see the reality beyond the news headlines. The festive evening connected young Jews from all over the world to an experience of Israeli culture and concluded with performances by Itay Galo, Netta Barzilai, and Eden Golan.
The event also showcased the "Spearhead" program, which integrates wounded IDF soldiers as participants in Taglit tours alongside young Jews from around the world. This encounter allows young people from the Diaspora to get to know those who were wounded while defending Israel up close, and for the wounded themselves to be part of a shared and meaningful experience that contributes to their rehabilitation. Amit Bar, who was wounded during the Iron Swords War and participated in Taglit, took the stage, shared his personal experience, and received applause from the audience.
"This is Sheldon's birthday, and you have made me happy on this special day. We were involved in Taglit for many long years, and if he could see everyone here tonight, it would be the best gift we could have given him. Almost a million young Jews have participated in this program so far — and it is amazing and very moving," said Prof. Miriam Adelson.
Prof. Adelson addressed the young people:
"Antisemitism has existed forever, and I think it will exist forever. It is very important to learn about our past and our heritage, so that you can speak up and answer the next time hostile people try to blame you. Stand up and stand for what you believe in. Israel will forever be your home. We all need to stand side by side in mutual responsibility."
Taglit CEO Gidi Mark said: "Since the beginning of the war, we have brought more than 60,000 participants, volunteers, and interns to Israel. Israel is currently facing a significant tourism and image challenge, so this is not taken for granted. After the tour in Israel, they become our ambassadors in the world."
