To engage with Israel is to tap into the wellspring of Jewish heritage and history, as well as a modern, multi-ethnic, diverse democracy.

For Jews, Israel is more than a place on a map; it is core to Jewish identity. As both our ancestral homeland and a diverse modern nation, Israel plays a central role in the history and religion of the Jewish people. In addition, the country’s significance expands beyond just the Jewish community; Israel has made significant contributions to the world and, as the only democracy in the Middle East, is an essential ally and regional partner to the United States.

Today, Israel is a diverse society and a vibrant democracy that is shaping itself in real-time. Still, for its many nuances, Israel is increasingly defined in extremes, and young Jews struggle to connect with and learn about Israel without the weight of polarizing narratives.

We envision a time when every Jewish person can see themselves as part of Israel’s story, in all of its richness and complexities.

To help build understand of and connections to Israel, we invest in opportunities for young Jews to visit and experience Israel, exploring its history, land, people and culture—including the country’s thriving arts, business and technology sectors.

We have also invested in expanding Israel education in various K12 settings and at universities across the U.S. so that students, regardless of religion, have access to a broad suite of courses on modern Israel.

Yet, even as we advance a broader understanding of Israel, we still see the spread of anti-Israel activity and efforts to de-legitimize Israel, particularly at colleges and universities. The good news is that efforts to support Israel on campus today are more sophisticated and more creative than ever.

To continue this work, we must provide students with the tools to stand up for Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish and democratic state, to challenge inaccurate narratives, and to support informed and productive dialogue. We also continue to invest broadly in efforts to combat the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement and to advocate for a constructive, bi-partisan relationship between the U.S. and Israel.

Through this work, we hope to see a day when Israel is understood and appreciated as a Jewish state, thriving democracy and complex modern nation.

At Schusterman, we invest within Israel, helping to shape a secure homeland for the Jewish people, with a thriving democracy and an inclusive civil society. Learn more about our Israel portfolio.