Last week, I also visited the University of Victoria, who also had a visit from the Israeli Diversity Panel. The panel is comprised of two Israeli-Arab Christians, Munir and Mary; an Israeli Druze, Adam; and an Ethiopian-Israeli Jew, Ester. The panel took turns talking about their life and experiences in Israel and how they viewed the country. The event was attended by students and community members. While all four panelists had different views and life stories, they are all very successful in the paths they have chosen to follow and all enjoy living in Israel. Mary stated that she is very happy living in Israel, and does not want to live in a Muslim Palestine. Ester, and Israeli born Ethiopian said her family struggled to get to Israel from Ethiopia and had a long and dangerous journey getting there. She said that she feels completely comfortable in Israel and very well assimilated. During the Q&A a community member asked the panel how they felt about the term apartheid used in regards to Israel. Munir responded with "there is no apartheid in Israel. It is sad to hear the claim. Nobody is perfect, but my country gives everyone opportunity". The IOC at the University of Victoria is also planning an Israel: A Party Week in the next few weeks and has a phenomenal schedule lined up, some events include a Gilad Shalit awareness campaign, Save a Child's Heart Fundraiser, Israeli-Iranian panel and a former Israeli soldier speaking!

During my visit to Simon Fraser University, and met with students over a hot lunch. Many students are interested in Israel and were telling me about the event the MSA the week prior equating Gaza with a Concentration Camp. Prior to the event starting they had signs and facts to try to bring balance to the discussion, and during the panel asked strategic questions in a further attempt for balance and to debunk the fallacies. Many students were also very interested to hear about our spring training program in Israel as well as our campaigns and work that we do!

Overall, I had an amazing and inspirational week last on the west coast. The Vancouver Hillel staff are passionate and amazing, the Hasbara Fellows: Roxie Lewin, Danielle Weisz, Steven Zbarsky, Talia Salzman, and Avi Ames are doing a phenomenal job, and the students (members of Hillel, IOC and IAC) are very involved and engaged. Kol HaKavod!

At the University of Winnipeg, students are excitedly preparing for Israel Peace Week next week. Students will be communicating a number of pro-Israel messages throughout the week by tabling in the highest traffic area on campus! For tips on messaging and dictating the narrative, check out Hasbara Fellowships National Director, Natalie Menaged's article. Can't wait to report on Israel Peace Week next week!