BT Students Lobby Capitol Hill

There, students experienced almost three days of intensive pro-Israel lobbying training from AIPAC’s experienced and knowledgeable staff.

Beth Tfiloh’s contingent, led by Middle School Principal Rabbi Yehuda Oratz and High School Jewish history teacher Phil Jacobs, listened in to many speakers representing AIPAC from various major universities.

Topics included “Strength in Alliance,” “Issues in the Middle East,” “AIPAC on Campus: Principles of our Movement,” and others. The students then participated in a college fair where they were able to speak to students who just years earlier were actively supporting AIPAC in their respective high schools.

“Through the various sessions and speakers at the AIPAC High School Summit, I gained a better understanding of the American-Israel relationship and the importance in educating and engaging my community on this important issue,” said Meira K. `19.

“AIPAC was an amazing experience,” said Sophie `20. “I learned so much about Israel and our country while having fun meeting teens my age.”

BT students were also treated to an amazing evening tour of the Lincoln Memorial, MLK Memorial, WWII, Korean and Vietnam War Memorials by Rabbi Oratz.

The following day BT students used the information they learned at the Summit to lobby staff members of Maryland Rep. John Sarbanes (D-3) and others.

“AIPAC is a great opportunity to make friends half way across the country,” added Emma W. `20.