For the first time, ADL has trained the entire senior class at Milken Community High School in confronting and responding to anti-Semitism and anti-Israel activity on college campuses. On May 19, the students participated in ADL’s Words to Action workshop, an interactive program designed to empower and equip college-bound and college students with constructive and effective responses to combat anti-Semitism and anti-Israel bias that they may face on college campuses.
As ADL has reported on its blog, Access ADL: California Campuses See Increase in Anti-Israel Activity, and through its extensive report, ADL Report: Anti-Israel Activity on Campus After Operation Protective Edge – A Preview of the 2014-2015 Academic Year, the words and tactics used by anti-Israel activists on campus are evolving and Jewish students need new resources and skills to deal with these issues both proactively and reactively.
The participating students learned about ADL’s definitions of anti-Semitism and anti-Israel bias. They explored several case studies and discussed ways to respond constructively to these scenarios, taken from real-life examples. They also received many resources, including ADL Israel Advocacy Guide: Tools for Advocating on Campus.
Student evaluations from this program indicated that they learned a great deal from the training and particularly enjoyed the interactive activities and practice scenarios. Comments about what they learned included the following:
- “How to distinguish between legitimate criticism of Israel and overt anti-Semitism.”
- “The group activity was educational and insightful.”
- “I feel like a stronger, more confident advocate for Israel.”
- “Know when to engage and who to contact.”
This program is available to high school and college students. For further information, contact us or call 310-446-8000.