When most Americans think of Israel, they picture the turmoil that has plagued the country for 2,000 years.
That is what the Hillel of Memphis, a program of the Memphis Jewish Federation, was trying to change with Israel Fest 2006.
"We wanted to help educate people to realize that Israel is a land rich with culture and is not filled with terrorism," said Paige Magdovitz, program director at the Hillel.
A diverse crowd gathered in front of The University Center to celebrate the country that was reborn in 1948 as a democratic Jewish state.
The event, sponsored by a grant from the Lemsky Endowment Fund of MJF, featured hair wraps, games, such as backgammon and Jewish brainteasers, and information from organizations like the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. The most popular things to do were riding camels and getting a bracelet made including students' names in Hebrew.
Students were also able to try an Israeli food called falafel, made from garbanzo beans, with hummus and Israeli salad in a pita.
A spiritual event was offered allowing students to write a letter to the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem, which is believed to be what is left of Solomon's Temple after its destruction. The wall is, according to tradition, the direct link between a person and God.
Brooke Windsor, a junior anthropology and English literature major, enjoyed the festival and embraced it as a learning experience.
"I learned that the people of Israel are proud and happy people that embrace their culture whole-heartedly," she said.
Tasmia Noor, a freshman psychology major originally from Bangladesh, thought that the festival was a good way for different people to interact.
"As a Muslim, I notice that everyone tends to stereotype each other, and the festival is a good way to break down some of the barriers between Americans and other countries," she said.
Magdovitz said getting the event together was a long process but was worth it because of the turn out.
"We wanted to celebrate Israel," she said. "It's a beautiful country that has come a long way and we are proud to be able to share the culture with students."
For more information about other events offered by the Hillel of Memphis, visit www.hillelofmemphis.org
