Israel is a hot-button issue. About as big as New Jersey, the country is covered in the media, at the U.N., and in public discourse to an extent far exceeding its size or population. With limitless information available about Israel from sources that range the political and ideological spectrum, it can be hard to break into the Israel conversation. By exploring and gaining an understanding of the historical Jewish connections to Israel, the purpose and definition of Zionism, and what makes Israel unique — and not-so-special — among nations, learners will build a foundation upon which to layer their personal connections and convictions about Israel and become empowered to add their voices to the Israel dialogue.

During this three-session course, learners will explore primary sources — such as maps, videos, archaeology, articles and other texts — in small groups and engage with common criticisms of Israel and Zionism.