Why I am a pro-Israel advocate

Israel has been part of my life for a very long time.

Being raised in a sheltered bubble in the valley of Los Angeles, CA, I have grown up in a fairly Jewish community. I have always heard from my family their love and great support for the state of Israel.

Last summer, my family and I traveled to Israel. It was one of the most eye-opening and life changing experiences. I was in awe and enamored by every part of Israel. I was so moved by the love and passion that Israelis had for their country. People from all over the world, from all different denominations of Judaism and other religions are able to come together in Israel. Israel protects the past and the future of the Jewish people and is the home of technology and innovation.

I realize that it is my responsibility to educate and inform others about the Jewish state. I cannot stand by and allow anti-Israel sentiments to occur. I am a high school advocate for Israel to learn how to combat these messages now, before I begin university. I am an intern at StandWithUs where I am expanding my knowledge to learn how to advocate for Israel and spread pro-Israel sentiments to high school students.

Speakers are being brought on college campuses that delegitimize the state of Israel. In addition, anti-Israel messages are being spread across social media. Therefore, when I undoubtedly face these messages at college, I will hopefully be able to combat them with grace, confidence, and poise. Teaching high school students about Israel, before they begin college is the initial step to ensure that we are able to convey these anti-Israel sentiment.

We can no longer remain silent, let us come together and change the world for the next generation to protect the Jewish State.

Gabi Golenberg is a Los Angeles high school student. She is currently interning with StandWithUs.