Dialogue and Dancing

From the April BaMachaneh:

At Tel Yehudah, we often say we are a “big tent”—a unique, pluralistic space where Jewish teens from across North America, Israel, Mexico, and Europe come together to build community. Especially now, in a time of deep divide in our country and our world, what we do matters.

TY is not a bubble. Our teens and staff bring their full selves—including their questions, convictions, and passions—into our shared space. We are all deeply connected to Israel and the Jewish people, and we don’t all see things the same way. And yet, we sit in dialogue together. We ask hard questions. We share our perspectives—with each other, with Israeli, American, and international staff, and with teens from around the world. And then—sometimes just hours later—we dance together on Saturday night.

Rabbi Michael Paley once said, “The Talmud is full of argument and dissent—and yet it’s considered a holy book.” Debate, he reminds us, is part of our intellectual tradition. It’s how we grow. At Tel Yehudah, we create a space where teens can question and challenge—and still build friendships, trust, and understanding.

And all of this happens in the context of the most joyful, spirited, fun-filled weeks of the year. TY is also about soccer and Shabbat, arts and adventure, s’mores and shira (singing). We balance challenge with joy, conversation with celebration.

As we prepare for Pesach—a holiday built around asking questions—we’re reminded that our strength as a people has never come from being the same. It comes from our ability to hold differences, ask together, and still celebrate as one community.

May this be a joyous Pesach filled with good questions, lively discussion, meaningful connection, and freedom and peace for all.

David Weinstein, Executive Director

Read all of April BaMachaneh