Many Diaspora Jewish students in Israel, either on year-long programs, semesters abroad, or finishing introductory trips such as Birthright, feel they only receive a small piece of the larger story playing out in the country.
The Vision Movement partners with AFSI and Alternative Action to offer immersive tours of Judea & Samaria/the West Bank. The tours, geared towards the needs of Diaspora Jews interested in critically exploring the conflict, seek to offer a deeper approach to understanding the tensions between Jews and Palestinians in the territories, as well as the grievances and aspirations of both peoples.
During a tour of Israel’s disputed heartland followed by a Shabbat experience in a West Bank Jewish community, participants experience some of the most pressing issues driving the conflict and engage with leading Jewish and Palestinian activists. Participants are fully exposed to both narratives and encouraged to try constructing a larger narrative inclusive enough to encompass ostensibly rival positions.
Who can attend the program?
Any Diaspora Jewish student currently in Israel is encouraged to apply. We accept only those applicants deemed capable of handling the content of the program.
How do I know if this is the right program for me?
We understand that this program isn’t for everyone. It requires critical thinking and the ability to struggle with difficult ideas. If you’re deeply interested in Jewish history, identity, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, this is probably the right program for you!
What can I expect from the program?
You’ll be exposed to various perspectives and experience Shabbat in a contentious location of deep significance to Jewish history. You’ll confront new information and will be taken out of your comfort zone. You’ll also learn about Palestinian perspectives & experiences while going deeper into issues related to Jewish identity & explore how all this can influence and inform your relationship to Eretz Yisrael.
What kind of commitment is expected from students of the program?
The program includes an introductory session prior to the program, a Friday tour, Shabbat in a West Bank Jewish community, and a debrief session following the program. In addition, students are expected to complete all the assigned readings and to write reflections on the speakers and readings.
What is the application process?
Applications are open online! Link to the application is under the video. Once you have completed the application, you will be contacted via email or phone.
When will I hear back regarding my status?
Acceptances will be sent within two weeks of your interview.
I’m so grateful for the opportunity to take part in the ATID program. I appreciated the different perspectives introduced to us surrounding Israelis and Palestinians and the ongoing struggle for peace. We also did some great workshops that enabled me to push myself to reflect on what I believe are the most important aspects of Jewish life, a Jewish nation, and Jewish history. Our teacher created a safe space for us to process and talk through our reactions and reflections as a group which was invaluable to my growth and development.
The ATID program led by Rav Yehuda HaKohen was illuminating for me on many levels. It renewed my sense of responsibility as a Jew in the land of Israel today, both to our land as well as to all the people living on it, whether Jew or Arab. It also deepened my connection to the Torah, the Jewish people, our traditions as well as our common humanity shared by all of humankind.
Generally, I am a self-learner, but ATID had me captivated from the beginning. By introducing me to differing perspectives from my own, I was able to expand my viewpoints and opinions on the conflict in the Middle East as well as the wider scope of Hebrew liberation in our generation. ATID is a must-take course for anyone eager to learn more about their background, connect to their roots, and broaden their mind. Whether a student, young professional, or even someone pursuing a career in foreign affairs, ATID is a program that will challenge your preconceived notions to help actualize your place in the Hebrew story.
As a woman who did not have the opportunity to receive a Jewish education, I can say with certainty that it is the ATID program which gave me the tools and the will to dig deeper into my identity, and join the jewish people in Israel. The program provides a space to hear and appreciate the narrative of the Palestinians which allowed me to deepen the connection and understanding I had of my own identity. I broke free from the traditional pro-Israel narrative and received a Hebrew vision, which gave me hope regarding what we are living and the willingness to play my part in our great story.
What an amazing experience! Rav Yehuda and his constituents have a real passion to further the Jewish mission to the next stage. The program really challenged me to think outside of the box in a non coercive way.
I participated in ATID virtually during my senior year of university and it was an incredible academic extracurricular that allowed me to delve deep into burning questions I had about Jewish identity. The class sessions were always dynamic and the additional readings/lectures thought-provoking. As a secular Jew, I especially appreciated that discussions surrounding Jewish history and identity and Israel’s place in the world were looked at through multiple perspectives. I certainly had preconceived notions challenged, but the program maintains an air of respect that I’ve rarely found in this discourse. I highly recommend this program to anyone that wants to dissect broad topics such as the conflict, diaspora identity, and decolonization.