As a result of a transformative gift from The Gerald Schwartz & Heather Reisman Foundation, Hillel Ontario utilizes a unique advocacy strategy designed to reduce antisemitism and anti-Zionism on Ontario university campuses by combating BDS, promoting the IHRA definition of antisemitism, and leveraging strategic relationships with campus partners.
Hillel hires, trains and embeds specially trained advocacy professionals on campus to support Jewish students to defend themselves and speak up in support of Israel and the Jewish community. As a direct result, Hillel Ontario is today at the forefront of campus based Israel advocacy.
We also take hundreds of Jewish students to Israel every year through Birthright Israel and other immersive travel experiences. We also offer non-Jewish student leaders the chance to experience Israel and the Palestinian Territories for themselves. While exploring the complexities that define the region, our trips focus on learning about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through stories and people on the ground.
Hillel Ontario also offers an intensive Israel Learning Fellowship, a paid six-week discussion-based course unpacking topics related to Israel, Zionism, and antisemitism. Through this program, participants gain a better understanding of the nuances and subtleties of Israeli history, culture, and society, and connect with other students and a mentor who share their Israel-related interests.
For more information on any of these initiatives, contact Jay Solomon, Chief Communications & Public Affairs Officer.