Conference debunks Israeli myths

Students from throughout the Midwest attended a summit in Chicago Sunday in an effort to highlight pro-Israeli issues. Hoosiers for Israel sent 20 students to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee event held in the Hyatt Regency Hotel at the O'Hare International Airport. \nThe summit, titled "Tools for Action," was designed to provide students with information on the importance of Israeli concerns and ways to become activists. This effort included workshops focusing on how to make an impact on Israel-related legislation, the media, electoral campaigns and campus debate. \n"Education is the most important tool that an advocate can have. In order to effectively teach others about any issue, you must first know the facts," said senior Calli Schiller, chair of the Indiana Israel Public Affairs Committee.\nPrimary speakers at the summit were "The Case for Israel" author Alan Dershowitz, Israeli scholar Dr. Daniel Gordis and AIPAC Executive Director Howard Kohr. Members of the AIPAC staff also worked with leadership development professionals to spread their message. It was the first year for the conference, and all interested students were welcome to attend.\n"The Arab-Israeli conflict is very prevalent issue in today's world. Attending the conference will be a learning experience and a way to meet other people wanting to learn ways to become more active," said sophomore Aliza Sinkinson, AIPAC liaison for IU.\nTopics of discussion regarding Israel often center on trying to debunk some of the common misconceptions of Israel. Its size is only about that of New Jersey, and it is isolated as the only Jewish state surrounded by 22 Arab states, said Michal Maoz-Levy, coordinator of Israel Programs at the Helene G. Simon Hillel Center.\n"People think of Israel as occupying territory for imperialist reasons. What is important to remember is that, in all its history, it has been fighting for its very existence. It hasn't had a chance not to fight," she said.\nWith the current war on terrorism, issues of peaceful resolutions and the dismantling of terrorist regimes are poignant for students in support of Israel. Israel is the only democracy in the Middle East, giving it an important role.\n"I sincerely hope that there is a peaceful solution for the Middle East. It is not acceptable to kill innocent civilians, and suicide bombings are not a legitimate negotiating tool. I believe that there can be a two-state solution, and the Israeli government has proven again and again that they are willing to compromise," said Schiller.\nSupporters of Israel also understand that the road to peace will not be an easy one. They note that terrorist attacks must be combated and minority groups must be effectively led.\n"A peaceful solution is not likely to be right around a corner. What will be important is if Israel can gain leadership that will direct the people to peaceful solutions that will benefit all people," said Maoz-Levy.\nFuture events being planned by the Hillel Center include IsraelPalooza, which is scheduled for March 28. According to the Hillel Center Web site, there will be a Walk for Israel as well as performances by Black Eyed Susan, Straight No Chaser and Ari Hest. Proceeds will go to Magen David Adom, an Israeli form of the Red Cross. Students can visit the Hillel Center Web site at www.indiana.edu/~hillel/ for more information.\n-- Contact staff writer Tim Callahan at tmcallah@indiana.edu.