By snoadmin
Beach Hillel continued the Cal State Long Beach Israel Week and “Israel @ 60” celebrations with a “Visit Israel” informational tent in front of the Psychology Building Wednesday.
The Jewish club handed out “Happy 60th Israel” cake in recognition of the 60 years since Israel declared statehood and the Jewish independent state was re-established.
The organization also distributed information about studying abroad, free trips and volunteer programs.
“It’s a real success,” said Ashley Austin, a junior biology and human development major. “People like the cake and are picking up pamphlets. Hopefully, people can learn about Israel, which is really important.”
The tent also provided information about Israel’s environment and medical programs, as well as arts, sports and innovations.
“It’s a very peaceful ceremony,” Austin said. “We’re providing factual information in a non-violent way. It’s a birthday party. We’re celebrating; that’s why there’s cake.”
Rachel Bookstein, a staff member at the University Interfaith Center and adviser for Hillel, explained that the celebration is like America’s Fourth of July for Israel.
“It gives students a sense of pride,” Bookstein said. “Our Jewish society is diverse, and we’re celebrating multiethnic identity because we’re all connected to Israel.”
One of the trips advertised was “Birthright Israel,” which, according to Bookstein, is a travel program for Jewish young adults that organizes free trips throughout Israel.
“Everyone has opinions about Israel, but they’ve never been,” Bookstein said.
Students also sang “Happy Birthday,” and later Jewish meditation songs accompanied by an acoustic guitar.
“We’re a clearing house for information,” Bookstein said, explaining that the Multicultural Center is a resource for all students.
Israel Week will continue with a community celebration of Israel’s 60th birthday on today at the Barbara and Ray Alpert Jewish Community Center in Long Beach from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. with music and food.
