Israel

The Israel Action Committee fulfills one of Congregation Emanu-El’s Core Missions of strengthening the connection of our members to the State of Israel and worldwide Jewry.

Israel Action Committee (IAC) Mission Statement

We are a committee of Temple Emanu-El formed to increase the engagement of our congregation and the wider community with the State of Israel, through education, celebration and involvement. The committee presents Israel related programs that include political, cultural, social, economic and religious interests. The IAC promotes:

• connection with Israelis, including those from our community who have made aliya and those who are living here.
• student visits to Israel whether from our children in day school, our b’nai mitzvah students, those in college and those eligible for BirthRight.
• inspire active support of the progressive Jewish Movement in Israel including: synagogues, schools, and kibbutzim.
• foster the celebration of Yom Ha’Atzmaut – Israel Independence Day throughout the Temple, including our Youth and Family Education Program and our Congregation Emanu-El Preschool.
• create an atmosphere where our members can engage passionately and respectfully about their views, perspectives, hopes and dreams for the State of Israel.

Questions? Please contact Ariana Estoque at [email protected] or 415-750-7552.

Upcoming Events:

From Fauda to Shtisel: The Holy Land Goes to Hollywood

The Global Appeal of Israeli Cinema

Sunday, October 30, 3:30pm

Congregation Emanu-El, Martin Meyer Sanctuary REGISTER HERE

Why have Israeli shows like “Fauda” and “Shtitsel” captivated audiences around the world? And, how does the depiction and treatment of marginalized individuals and communities affect Israeli society?

Join us for a provocative and timely discussion with Yochai Maital, co-founder of leading Jewish podcast “Israel Story,” Ala Dakka, a Muslim Arab actor and featured actor in Season 3 of “Fauda,” and, live via Zoom, Director of TV and Film at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Israel, Daniel Susz.

“Israel Story,” one of the first podcasts in Israel, set out to tell the story of Israel one tale at a time. It endeavors to break free of “startup-nation “  or BDS stereotypes and complicate the narrative around Israel. 

Born to a Muslim Arab family in Beersheba but raised primarily in the Jewish educational system, Ala also complicates the narrative of what it means to be Israeli. Growing up, he always felt like a bit of an impersonator wherever he went. Maybe that’s why acting came so naturally to him. 

Daniel, as part of the Israel Office of Cultural Affairs, strives to promote Israeli content and creators in the American TV & film market.

Together, all three of our guests will discuss why Israeli television and cinema are so appealing to international audiences and how the stories of real people, Arab and Jews, ultra orthodox and secular Jews can teach us about relationships and society in Israel. 

In short: does coexistence even exist in Israel and how can ties between communities be strengthened?

This unique, interactive, format of live conversation, including stories, and short film segments will offer you ample opportunities to ask Yochai, Ala, and Daniel questions about Israeli society. 

Presented by the Israel Action Committee. 

Have any questions? Or need help registering? Please contact Ariana Estoque at 415-750-7552 or at [email protected]

Check out our latest webinars:

Rabbi Gilad Kariv in Conversation with Rabbi Jonathan Singer

Israel’s Weizmann Institute Satellite: ULTRASAT

Ethiopian Jews: Our Overlooked Brethren – Helping to Bring Those Remaining, Home to Zion

A Thank You message from the Jewish compound in Gondar, Ethiopia