FROM B’YACHAD MAGAZINE
Expanding our Zionist Education Ecosystem
The Importance of Non-Jewish Student Allies
The Magic of Caravan for Democracy
Education
My grandfather, Milton Shapiro (Jewish National Fund-USA National President 1993-1997) instilled in our family a commitment to the Jewish people, Israel, and leadership with integrity. After his death, we sought to honor his legacy. As we sat around the conference table at the Ronald S. Lauder JNF House and debated different ideas, my husband, Louis Cortes, who wasn’t born Jewish, said: “What about non-Jewish student leaders? Isn’t it important for them to experience Israel” And with that, The Caravan for Democracy (CFD) Student Leadership Mission was born, championed by the Levkoff-Shapiro Family and Joan (z”l) and Samuel Ginsburg, who felt equally passionate about supporting non-Jewish student allies.
Since then, more than 700 college student leaders beyond the Jewish faith have participated in CFD. When we started, it was a different world. Today, Jewish college students are being faced with the impossible choice of giving up membership in clubs or organizations or giving up their connection to Israel. No one should have to make this decision, but it cannot be Jewish students alone who are fighting for their existence and dignity on campuses. They need allies who are willing to learn and to engage in tough conversations and take informed stands.
Our students, who come from diverse backgrounds, are committed to the intellectual vulnerability that is critical when talking about Israel. It takes a strong backbone and integrity to speak the truth when you’re up against a tide of “activists” who have little understanding nor care of history.
We are beyond proud of our CFD alumni. They have helped defeat BDS bills and received prestigious fellowships. Some currently work in state and federal government, some attend graduate school in Israel, and on and on. What I have been most surprised by is how CFD participants learn from each other and develop relationships that cross lines. The program helps all college students to see the humanity in someone who identifies differently from them.
That’s the magic of CFD: true leaders are willing to learn, listen, take risks and accountability, and be humble. Israel is awe-inspiring and provides the perfect backdrop for meaningful, provocative discussions and emotional vulnerability. This is the “stuff” that creates lifelong friendships. The CFD mission isn’t just about fostering leadership for today; it’s about leadership for the future, too. It has been my greatest honor to serve as Chair of this incredible program.
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