Tom Fudge: In the United States, segregation refers to the separation of races. It used to be the law in many states. Now it's illegal all around the country. But it still goes on based on housing patterns and continued problems of racism.
In Israel, they also have segregation. It's not based on race, but rather religion and language. It's the difference between whether you're a Hebrew-speaking Jew or an Arab-speaking Muslim or Christian. Like in America, the school system in Israel is among the nation's most segregated institutions. That's where Hand In Hand schools come in. Begun in 1997, the goal of Hand In Hand schools is bringing Jewish and Arab children together.
Today there are four Hand In Hand schools in Israel, educating 900 students. Hand In Hand was co-founded by Lee Gordon who lived in Israel for 18 years.
Mr. Gordon will be speaking tonight (Oct. 11) at 7 p.m. at the Francis Parker School Field House. There is a $10 suggested donation at the door.
Guests
- Lee Gordon, co-founder of Hand In Hand, which created four schools in Israel that integrate Jewish and Arab students.
- Nehad Ershied, an Israeli-Arab attorney and father of two children attending Hand In Hand.
