Glencoe's Aitz Hayim to Examine Whether Israel and American Jews are Moving in Opposite Directions

The commemoration of Selichot outlines the High Holiday agenda and sets the tone for the holiest day of the year in Judaism. As is its custom, Glencoe's Aitz Hayim for Jewish Living takes a provocative approach to the holiday.

This year, from 7-9:00 PM on Saturday evening September 1, Aitz Hayim will use the occasion of Selichot to explore whether Israel and American Jews are moving in opposite directions. The event will take place at the Infinity Foundation, 1280 Old Skokie Road, Highland Park.

Leading the discussion will be Joel Braunold, who combines both effective activism and a profound appreciation of what Jewish democratic values can be. He heads the Alliance for Middle East Peace (ALLMEP). This organization of 100 groups brings stability and hope to the region through humanitarian projects that connect people. In addition to non-government organizations, it works with the U.S. State Department, the National Security Council and Congress. If you read anything hopeful between Israelis and Palestinians, ALLMEP is probably involved.

Braunold grew up in England and is an alumnus of the Harvard Kennedy School of Government. He writes for both Ha'aretz and the Jerusalem Post and has lectured at Harvard, the National Defense University and Bar Ilan. He serves as a liaison between different governments and has a sophisticated understanding of the issues within Israeli society.

Registration for this event is required. Please call: 847.835.3232 or email: aitzhayim@gmail.com.