Hamas summer camp for children in elementary school in Northern Gaza. In the Poster: “A victory for Gaza, glory of Jerusalem: Youth to overcome the highest peaks to only recognize Islam as the only religion”. Photo: PALDF
As summer comes to an end and students begin to return to school, I think that now is a great time to take stock of this past summer. I spent this summer working at what I think is one of the greatest places in the world (after Israel of course!) – summer camp. Where else can kids be free of the stresses of homework, family life and responsibility, and be able to come out of their shells, make new friends and challenge themselves with exciting activities? I was shocked by a press release from the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) which described the goals and activities of summer camps run by Hamas this past summer. At the seven hundred Hamas-run camps operating in the Gaza Strip this summer, children and teenagers participated in semi-military training, including firearm practices and military drills. Childhood is a trying and confusing time, where the subtle influences of your parents, friends and community have a major impact on the way you will one day choose to lead your life. Being immersed in a military culture from such a young age is not the way to create the leaders necessary for one day finding peace in the Middle East. On the other hand, the camps that Canadian students attended as children have left us with a strong sense of self and outstanding leadership skills. As we return to school and the controversies that inevitably surface on our campuses year after year, I urge Canadian students to harness the leadership skills that they possess and stand up for Israel. Please visit us at the Israel on Campus table at MSU Clubsfest on Wednesday, September 9th to learn more about IOC, meet with members of our executive, and learn more about how you can advocate for Israel.
Source: http://dover.idf.il/IDF/English/News/today/09/08/2901.htm
By Daphne Jackson, VP Admin, IOC
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