Blog

The Book of Ruth and Lessons of Chesed

This Shavuot, NIF Froman Fellow Lianna Mendelson recalls the story of Ruth and Naomi’s return to the land of Israel, and draws parallels to the lives of many immigrants seeking safety and security within modern-day borders.

A Tragedy in the North, a Hate March — and a Glimmer of Hope

The news coming out of Israel this week was hard, but in this difficult moment, from north to south, I see a path towards a different, more equal future.

NIF Film Club: Junction 48

Palestinian rapper Kareem and his singer girlfriend Manar struggle, love and make music in their crime-ridden ghetto and Tel Aviv‘s hip-hop club scene… a social drama with kick-ass music directed by Udi Aloni. Watch the post-film discussion with star Tamer Nafar and director Udi Aloni.

A Year of Crisis and Resilience

As its political system remains mired in stalemate and dysfunction, Israel’s civil society has been instrumental in protecting the marginalized and vulnerable – and defending Israel’s democracy.

Emunah on Mimouna

Many of us eagerly anticipate the meal at the conclusion of Passover. Finally, we can eat pizza, cake, and all of the hametz-filled carbohydrates we’ve been missing. For North African Jews, this time takes on heightened meaning with the celebration of Mimouna, a joyous day-long celebration of the end of the prohibition against eating bread that includes eating traditional Mizrahi Jewish foods. Yet this special tradition has become intertwined with debates over the use and abuse of Mizrahi culture in Israel.

NIF Film Club: Comrade Dov

As part of a special Israeli Leaders on Film series, NIF Film Club watched Comrade Dov this week. Watch the post-film discussion with director Barak Heymann and special guest former MK Dov Khenin.

Israel’s Spring and the Long Road to Recovery

As elections near and Israel emerges from the pall of pandemic, civil society must ensure that Israel’s government addresses the long-term effects of the crisis, which have disproportionately fallen on marginalized communities.

NIF Film Club: Golda

As part of a special Israeli Leaders on Film series, NIF Film Club watched Golda this week. Watch the post-film discussion with directors Udi Nir and Shani Rozanes.

photo of Mordechai "Moraleh" Bar-On - photo via Wikimedia Commons

Remembering Mordechai “Moraleh” Bar-On

We mourn the passing of Mordechai “Moraleh” Bar-On, former New Israel Fund President, at the age of 92.

Civil Society is Laying the Blueprint for Social Change

At times it can feel that victories for equality are few and far between and that the destination of a truly just society is a long ways off. This week is an exception.