Before coming to Israel, I had been exposed to countless narratives and stories circulating on social media about its government, diplomatic relations with other nations, and its ties with neighboring countries—many of which are dominated by dictatorships or influenced by terrorist organizations. Most of what I encountered was overwhelmingly negative, painting a bleak and one-sided picture of this remarkable country, which also holds profound significance as a holy place for the three Abrahamic religions. Determined to form my own perspective, I arrived in Israel on Jewish National Fund-USA’s Caravan for Democracy mission with an open mind and a commitment to separating fact from propaganda.
Throughout my journey, I experienced a whirlwind of emotions—intense curiosity, deep sorrow, righteous anger, and even moments of joy. The speaker series was incredibly insightful. Each guest brought unique perspectives, sharing their personal stories, professional expertise, and reflections on the harrowing events of October 7. One of the most uplifting moments was our visit to the Arab-Jewish Cultural Center in Haifa. It was heartening to witness members of both communities coming together, bridging divides, and engaging in meaningful dialogue within a safe and inclusive space.
In stark contrast, visiting Yad Vashem and Kfar Aza, along with other locations in southern Israel near the Gaza border, was profoundly heart-wrenching. Walking the streets and entering homes where innocent lives had been brutally taken in unimaginable ways left a deep and sorrowful impact on me. Witnessing the aftermath of such atrocities brought the tragic events of October 7 into sharp focus. It was a sobering reminder of the horrors people endured that morning and the resilience required to move forward.
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Upon returning to campus, I plan to connect with the Jewish community at my university by attending Shabbat dinners and engaging with the Jewish club. By sharing my experiences in Israel, I hope to foster understanding and solidarity, highlighting the complexities and humanity of a nation often misrepresented. This trip has profoundly shaped my perspective, and I feel a renewed sense of purpose in sharing the truth and honoring the stories of those I encountered.
About the author
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Aisha Shirazi is a Senior at the University of North Florida double majoring in Political Science with a concentration in International Relations and French and Francophone Studies.
About Caravan for Democracy
Jewish National Fund-USA’s Caravan for Democracy Student Leadership Mission is a 10-day, fully subsidized educational program for student leaders beyond the Jewish faith who have never been to Israel before. This unique mission provides students with the opportunity to explore the Jewish and democratic country of Israel through meetings with political, cultural, and community leaders from diverse backgrounds and faiths. To learn more, visit jnf.org/caravan.