DC Jam Heads to U.S. Institute of Peace

Posted on 07/07/2010 @ 12:13 PM

Impact: DC Jam 1

Today the students headed over to the United States Institute of Peace for a simulation exercise on Israeli/ Palestinian relations.

From there, we headed back to the GW Hillel for another simulation on how a Congressional Office works. Each student was assigned a job in a Congressional Office such as Chief of Staff or Legislative Correspondent. We then acted out the process of voting on a bill.

After a little down time, we met again for Beit Midrash. This session focuses on giving the students a Jewish framework for their lobbying efforts. We examined three biblical figures- Noah, Abraham, and Moses and analyzed the unique way each of them responded to God in a crises situation. The students learned that advocacy and “chutzpah” have roots that go all the way back to the Bible. We also looked at a Hasidic text that connects self-esteem to the ability to be an effective advocate.

This evening, we will be splitting into groups to prepare for our lobbying visits. Tomorrow morning we are off to the hill!

Best,

Natalie