The Jewish Innovation
More than 20 schools and community centers throughout central Israel participated in Shonim B’Yachad/ Different Together. Students from every facet of Israeli society, including Muslims, Christians, and Jews, submitted artwork. A panel of leading Israeli artists selected 35 of the most meaningful images to enlarge to billboard size for the Shonim B’Yachad/Different Together exhibit, which opened March 19, 2015 in Jaffa, Israel. The powerful images of Shonim B’Yachad/Different Together have been in the public eye for only a short time; the impact has been profound. To date, the exhibition has received a commendation from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and visits from multiple members of the Israeli Knesset, along with Jewish, Muslim and Christian clergy. An estimated 250,000 Israelis will experience the project. We are about to embark on a life changing educational tool that will impact the next generation of all creed, religion and orientation in Israel.
The Impact
In accordance with the Jewish value, V’Ahavta l’reyecha c’mocha – Love your neighbor as yourself, the Shonim B’Yachad/ Different Together project provides a way for students throughout Israel to express what diversity and togetherness means to them. More than 20 schools and community centers throughout central Israel participated in Shonim B’Yachad/ Different Together. An estimated 250,000 Israelis will experience the project including visits from multiple members of the Israeli Knesset and Jewish, Muslim and Christian clergy. Through this experience, “the other” is humanized and celebrated. Together, a multi-faceted Israeli society celebrates the art of their children and experiences loving their neighbor as they would themselves.
What Will You Do with the Money?
If the first year of our success with Shonim B’Yachad/Different Together is any indication, we are about to embark on a life changing educational tool that will impact the next generation of all creed, religion and orientation. The acceptance of the program in Israel has been remarkable. We have been asked to extend the exhibit this year and we are already planning for the next, while exploring additional partnerships and sponsors that will help us perpetuate this vital endeavor. In order to engage local support here in Sarasota, Florida and across the United States, we must have an English language website and promotional items. $1,800.00 will be used to create and maintain an English language website for Shonim B’Yachad/ Different Together.
