ViZion Celebrates Theodor Herzl’s 150th Birthday
June 10, 2010
Just one of many celebrations of the 150th birthday of the father of Modern Zionism, Theodor Herzl, took place on Wednesday, June 2nd, at the headquarters of the American Zionist Movement in NYC. Young professionals from the NY area were treated to an Israeli buffet dinner (and birthday cupcakes, of course!) as they had the opportunity to hear a panel of speakers discuss Herzl’s vision and what it means today.
Rabbi Leor Sinai, Co-Founder and Membership Chair of ViZion, moderated a panel of two - Russell Robinson, Chief Executive Officer of the Jewish National Fund, and Sam "Bodi" Bodenheimer, Founder/Director of Spicerack Music.
After spending 17 years working in the Federation world, Russell Robinson moved to JNF. It was at JNF that Robinson had the opportunity to learn about Herzl and his message - how to accomplish your goals beyond all adversity. Herzl was able, without Facebook, Twitter, etc., to inspire people to connect to his vision, and join him in his dream of the land of Israel. He knew his objective, and was able to overcome all obstacles in his way. This serves as a strong lesson for us all as we try to get a handle of on the global challenges we face on a daily basis. It's not about "logo ego" - who gets the credit for what. It is vital to the success of all our initiatives that we find partners to work with all of us to accomplish our goals.
Sam Bodenheimer participated in "A Journey in Herzl's Footsteps", a trip that followed Herzl's path from Paris to Basle, Vienna, Budapest and Jerusalem. Sam spoke of the part of the trip that he felt made the biggest impact on him. The group was supposed to travel to Israel for Yom HaZikaron, but their flight was delayed due to the volcanic eruption in Iceland. Almost internalizing the Herzlian spirit (as reference by Russell earlier), members of the group worked together to coordinate a program to honor Israel's fallen soldiers. Commemoration in Israel would be easy - the whole country mourns the loss of life, as just about everyone in Israel has lost a loved one. But, in a place seemingly so far removed from the sadness, it was extremely emotional to participate in a program put together by a unique and diverse group of people - including Israelis - who were able to provide a better understanding of what memorial day means to a people who are so closely connected to the meaning on the day.
Russell and Sam both addressed the issue of the strained relationships between the American and Israeli Jewish communities and how to mend the relationship. No longer is the relationship between the Diaspora and Israel all about crisis, but rather success and pride. This creates an exciting opportunity for the Jewish nation. As the most powerful people on earth, having done what no one else has done, we must show the world what else we can accomplish together.
When asked how they define their "Zionism", Russell and Sam spoke of looking back on where Israel came from and far she has come. There is cultural diversity and success and a feeling of excitement about Israel. They also shared their thoughts on ways to show the world sides of Israel you don't see on the news, by taking back our Zionism and repositioning the lens to the positive Israel the world should see, and made us feel proud of all Israel has accomplished in 62 short years.
Herzl's message here is crystal clear. We have the opportunity to become even more motivated in our lives, both personal and professional, and not to settle. We can look for ways to grow, and take note of the importance of having a deep-rooted passion that will drive others to rally behind us.
An amazing turnout of young Jewish professionals from various different Jewish non-profits gathered for a night of celebration and networking. If you are interested in getting involved with ViZion and would like to attend future events, email ViZioninfo@azm.org.
Click to view photos from the event: http://azm.org/herzl-birthday-party-gallery
