The Escape from the Shtetl

We woke up in the middle of the night on Monday for a special machane activity called “Escape from the Shtetl”. The kids emulated the late19th century immigration of Jews from the shtetl to America. They observed a village meeting where different villagers had different opinions about staying and preserving the old way of life vs. leaving to look for a better future. They then participted in a few stations where they met other representatives of the erra - Zionist activists talked about the option of moving to Palestine in a Swamp Drying Station, a rabbi tried to convince them that their old way of life is worth preserving, and that the trouble will go away in a Cow Milking Station. They then moved on to make a decision, and were taken on a "boat ride" to Ameica. When they arrived, they went through a tableau of some snapshots of the Jewish experience in America during the 20th century. The Tenaments, the Red Scare, Jewish incvolvement in union organizing and in the Civil Rights Movement, and Habonim Dror Zionists. 

Last night was Gender Night, an evening dedicated to discussions about gender identity with a special emphasis on empowerment. Some activities attempted to challenge gender dichotomies while others explored the relationship between language and gender. The kids remained within their age and gender groups throughout, allowing for greater comfort and intimacy.

And in other news: Dirty Fun chug (interest group) had an intense ultimate frisbee game with Sports chug yesterday, and our Shira (singing) group has been learning some new English and Hebrew songs, in preparation for visitors day.