Baltimore statue graffitied with pro-Palestinian messages
November 10, 2024| WBFF Staff | Fox45 Baltimore
Anti-Zionist messages appeared graffitied on a statue at the intersection of West Lafayette and West Mount Royal Avenues.
The graffitis read “Zionism is racism + Nazism,” “98,000 children between 2 – 17 have a disability from Israel’s genocide” and “70% of Israel’s attacks are funded by the US.”
Activist's lecture sparks backlash, claims of anti-Semitism at Towson University
November 4, 2024| Keith Daniels | Fox45 Baltimore
A human rights activist invited to speak at Towson University drew split reaction Monday on his stance on the Middle East conflict.
Caren Leven, Executive Director of the Baltimore Zionist District, was on the campus of Towson University Monday walking in step with disappointment. She’s disturbed by the university’s decision to allow—what she and her group consider to be–an unwelcomed speaker to attend a lecture to students.
Antisemitic vandalism strikes the heart of Baltimore's Jewish community
October 21, 2024| Olivia Dance | Fox45 Baltimore
Antisemitic incidents continue to take place across the country, including here in the Baltimore region.
The most recent incident happened over the weekend in Baltimore County.
At a property in the heart of one of the largest Jewish communities in Maryland, you will find photos of hostages and Israeli flags on display.
Rally held one year after Oct. 7 attack
October 6, 2024| Khiree Stewart | WBAL-TV
Oct. 7 marked one year since the deadly attack at a music festival in Israel. The Baltimore Zionist District held a rally to mark the date.
Baltimore Jewish community rally ahead of one year anniversary of Hamas attack
October 6, 2024 | Ja Nai Wright | WMAR
Around 200 people gathered carrying Israeli flags and posters showing faces of 100+ hostages still being held by Hamas, one year after they carried out a deadly attack.
Although rally goers reflected on tragedy, no tears were shed, only pride in supporting Israel from afar.
Sunday’s rally at Wellwood Elementary School honored the memory of more than 1,200 Israelis killed that October 7 day.
UMD bars non-university-sponsored events, including pro-Palestine rally, on October 7
September 2, 2024 | Danny Tow | Fox45 Baltimore
The University of Maryland will only allow university-sponsored events to take place on campus on October 7, according to an email from university president Darryl Pines.
This means an event planned by UMD’s Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) for that day – one year since terrorists killed around 1,200 people in Israel and took hundreds more hostage – will no longer be allowed to take place.
Baltimore Zionist District Launches Israel Connection Program for Local Teens
July 24, 2024 | Caren Leven | JMORE
In response to the alarming rise of antisemitism globally, the Baltimore Zionist District is proud to announce the launch of its newest initiative, the BMore Israeli Program.
This dynamic, year-long leadership program is specifically designed for Jewish teens entering 10th grade in the Baltimore area. The program aims to equip our youth with the tools and experiences necessary to develop a resilient Jewish identity by fostering a strong connection to Jewish heritage and the State of Israel.
Celebrating Yom Ha’atzmaut in the Midst of War
May 6, 2024 | Jillian Diamond | Baltimore Jewish Times
Tuesday, May 14 is Yom Ha’atzmaut, Israel’s independence day. 2024 marks 76 years since the country was first established in 1948. But while last year’s holiday was particularly celebratory due to the fact that it was Israel’s 75th anniversary, this year’s festivities have more of a somber undertone to them — the events of Oct. 7 loom large overhead, and Israel’s military actions in Gaza have put the country front and center on the world stage.
Program Brings Oct. 7 Survivor to Baltimore to Share Personal Story
April 3, 2024 | Braden Hamelin | Baltimore Jewish Times
Emotions ran high in a room at Chizuk Amuno Congregation in Pikesville on March 28, as an estimated 150 people heard testimony from a survivor of the Oct. 7 attack, as part of the Baltimore Zionist District’s Faces of October 7th programming.
'Never Again' Truly Is Now
Destruction And Inspiration: Notes On A Baltimore Mission To Israel
December 28, 2023 | Jay Bernstein | Baltimore Jewish Life
Imagine taking a tour of the Warsaw Ghetto a few months after the its destruction by the Nazis in 1943; or viewing Kishinev weeks after the 1903 pogrom; or visiting the Jewish communities of the Rhineland after they were massacred in the Crusade of 1096.
Jewish Baltimoreans Attend March For Israel In Nation's Capital
November 15, 2023 | JTA
Scores of Baltimoreans attended yesterday’s March for Israel rally in Washington, D.C., which was considered the largest Jewish gathering in U.S. history.
‘Empty Shabbat Table’ Vigil Brings Together More Than 300 Baltimoreans To Advocate Release Of Israeli Hostages
November 5, 2023 | Alan Feiler | JMORE
Among the speakers at the Nov. 3 “Empty Shabbat Table” were relatives and friends of individuals abducted by Hamas during the Oct. 7 attack.
Hundreds Turn Out At Penn Station For Solidarity Rally For Israel
October 29, 2023 | Alan Feiler | JMORE
In the shadow of the “Male/Female” sculpture outside of Penn Station, Israel supporters gathered to voice their outrage about the Oct. 7 Hamas attack and call for the elimination of the terrorist group, while demanding the release of all hostages.
Remembering The Sacrifices Made By Israelis During The Yom Kippur War
October 3, 2023 | Caren Leven | JMore
In the tapestry of history, certain moments etch themselves into the collective memory, transcending time and generations. An indelible chapter is the Yom Kippur War, a watershed moment in Israel’s journey. It is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices, strength and unwavering spirit illuminating a nation’s path from darkness to light.
Caren Leven Bridges Israel And Baltimore
September 27, 2023 | Jillian Diamond | Baltimore Jewish Times
Confronting The Challenge Of Antisemitism And Anti-Zionism On Campus
September 22, 2023 | Caren Leven | JNS
Strengthening Bonds, Exploring Roots On BZD's Trip To Israel
August 11, 2023 | Caren Leven | Baltimore Jewish Times
After Years-Long Absence, Friendship Caravan Spreads Israeli Cheer At Camp
July 26, 2023 | Jillian Diamond | Baltimore Jewish Times
From June 11 to 13, a caravan of Israeli performers traveling across North America stopped at Beth Tfiloh Camps, Chizuk Amuno Camps, J Camps and Camps Airy & Louise. They put on shows full of singing and dancing for over 1,900 campers.
Baltimore Teens Journey To Israel For Educational Experiences
July 24, 2023 | Jillian Diamond | Baltimore Jewish Times
This July has marked the journey of a lifetime for several groups of Baltimore teenagers, who traveled to Israel with different community organizations.
The Baltimore cohort of Diller Teen Fellows, a 4Front program, and participants from Baltimore Zionist District who participated in the Gadna military program had very different experiences, but both involved developing leadership skills and cultivating a love of Israel.
Israel Is Not An Apartheid State | READER COMMENTARY
June 17, 2023 | The Baltimore Sun
In his recent letter to the editor, Charles Cooper falsely labels Israel as an apartheid state (”Israel remains an apartheid state,” June 7).
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is a complicated issue with diverse interpretations and narratives. Pro-Palestinian groups claim Israel as an apartheid state, repressing and killing Palestinians in the disputed territories. It is vital to examine the situation critically, consider the broader context and challenge the apartheid characterization.
Baltimore To Celebrate Israel’s 75th Anniversary In Style
April 19, 2023 | Jillian Diamond | Baltimore Jewish Times
April 26 marks Yom Ha’atzmaut, more commonly known as Israel Independence Day. The holiday honors the founding of Israel in 1948, when David Ben-Gurion declared its independence as a Jewish state.
Baltimore Zionist District Sends First Teen Mission To Israel Since Start Of Pandemic
October 7, 2022 | Jesse Berman | JMore
When 15-year-old Max Riter arrived in Israel this summer, it represented not only his first trip to the Jewish state but a final opportunity to commune with his late grandmother, Susan Stepner, placing a message to her within the ancient stones of Jerusalem’s Western Wall.
Baltimore Zionist District Announces The Appointment Of Four New Board Members
September 8, 2022 | Baltimore Zionist District | EIN Presswire
Baltimore Zionist District (“BZD”) announced today the appointment of four new members to the Board of Directors. This brings the number of board members to thirteen. The four new additions to the Board are Eric Rubin, Vered Mei-Tal, Jaime Davidov, and Fern Babkes.
BZD To Take 55+ Group On In-Person Israel Tour
December 22, 2021 | Jesse Berman | Baltimore Jewish Times
“Next year in Jerusalem” is going to ring very true for participants of the Baltimore Zionist District’s upcoming tour of Israel.
BZD is currently organizing its first in-person trip to Israel since the start of the pandemic. This trip, intended for people 55 and older, will take place from March 22-April 5.
Baltimore Zionist District Plans First Mission To Israel Since Outset Of The Pandemic
October 7, 2022 | Jesse Berman | JMore
The Baltimore Zionist District is currently planning its first trip to Israel since the outset of the pandemic. The mission is for adults ages 55 and up, geared toward first-time visitors as well as individuals who have toured Israel on multiple occasions. Jmore recently spoke with Adi Ratzon, BZD’s shlicha, or Israel emissary, about the trip, which takes place Mar. 22 to Apr. 5, 2022.
STAY POSITIVE, ENVISIO CHANGE IN 2022
Winter 2022 | Courtney McGee | Baltimore Style
As we get ready to ring in the new year, several local personalities share their personal aims for achieving a healthy, happy 2022. Creating, decluttering, embracing change and enjoying jazz number among their positive goals.
Check what our Executive Director, Caren Leven, had to say.
Caren Leven, Executive Director, Baltimore Zionist District
Na’aleh: The Hub for Leadership Learning
Caren is a Sabra (one born in Israel), and she arrived in the US at the age of 10. Although she could speak and understand English, she couldn’t read or write in English, creating a huge challenge when her parents enrolled her in public school.
Team Israel Plays Exhibition Game In Aberdeen Before Heading To Tokyo Olympics
July 20, 2021 | Alan Feiler | JMore
Harford County’s largest city, Aberdeen has never been known as a hotbed of Jewish life and culture. But on Monday afternoon, July 19, hundreds of area Jews made the trek to the small town to watch Israel’s national baseball team compete in an exhibition game against the Cal Ripken Collegiate Baseball League All-Stars.
Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream Announces Boycott Of Israeli West Bank Settlements
July 19, 2021 | JTA | JMore
Following pressure from pro-Palestinian activists, Ben & Jerry’s announced July 19 that it would stop selling ice cream in “Occupied Palestinian Territory.” The Vermont-based ice cream brand said it would continue operating in Israel, suggesting that it is planning to pull its products from stores located in Israeli settlements in the West Bank.
Demonstrators ‘Keep The Flame’ At Rally Against Antisemitism
July 12, 2021 | Jesse Berman | Baltimore Jewish Times
On Sunday afternoon, a few thousand demonstrators gathered together in the shadow of the U.S. Capitol building to attend “No Fear: Rally in Solidarity with the Jewish People.” The rally was meant as a demonstration against antisemitism, Jewish hatred, and the denial of Jewish rights, said Caren Leven, the executive director of the BZD.
The Baltimore Zionist District, With Caren Leven
June 15, 2021 | Radio Sefarad
The Baltimore Zionist District (BZD) uses its direct Israeli connection as a home base for the creation of cultural and political programs and educational activities which deal with all aspects of Zionism and modern Israeli life. Its declared mission is “To foster knowledge and understanding of the State of Israel, to facilitate dialogue, to raise awareness, to advocate for a secure future for Israel and nurture the bonds between our local community and Israel.”
Baltimore Jews Express Support For Israel As Conflict Continues
May 19, 2021 | Jesse Berman | Baltimore Jewish Times
On Sunday afternoon, a few thousand demonstrators gathered together
Nearly 300 demonstrators, holding handmade signs and with Israeli flags flying in the breeze or draped over their shoulders, fanned out across both sides of Stevenson Road near Chizuk Amuno Congregation on May 13.
Social Media Post About Middle East Conflict Stirs Concern Among Local College Community
May 14, 2021 | Dan Lampariello | Fox 45 News
COLLEGE PARK, Md. (WBFF) – A social media post circulating among students at the University of Maryland is causing concern among the area’s Jewish community. The post, which was posted and then allegedly shared by a number of students on Instagram, focuses on the current tension in the Middle East.
Pro-Israel Rally Held May 13 On Stevenson Road Sidewalk
May 12, 2021 | Staff Report | JMore
On Thursday, May 13, the Baltimore Zionist District and Stand With Us Mid-Atlantic held a rally in support of Israel on the sidewalk of Stevenson Road, by the Interstate-695 bypass. About 300 people, some draped in Israeli flags, attended.
Baltimore Marks Yom HaZikaron And Yom Ha’atzmaut
April 7, 2021 | Jesse Berman | Baltimore Jewish Times
Synagogues and other Jewish organizations in the Baltimore area are preparing to both honor Israel’s fallen soldiers and victims of terror and celebrate the birth of the Jewish nation through events commemorating Yom HaZikaron and celebrating Yom Ha’atzmaut.
Baltimore Jewish Council Condemn Anti-Semitic Postings From Hopkins Teaching Assistant
January 5, 2021 | Staff Report | JMore
The Baltimore Jewish Council and The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore condemned the anti-Semitic comments allegedly posted on social media by a Johns Hopkins University teaching assistant. According to media reports, the teaching assistant was identified as Rasha Anayah, a graduate student in the chemistry department.
Chanukah Events, Virtual And Otherwise, To Take Place Across The Baltimore Metropolitan Area
December 1, 2020 | Alan Feiler | JMore
“The proper response, as Chanukah teaches, is not to curse the darkness but to light a candle.” –Rabbi Dr. Irving “Yitz” Greenberg, author, theologian, activist and educator. Perhaps more than any other time in recent memory, the lights of the chanukiah will shine brighter and offer more hope and comfort than any other Chanukah season.
You Should Know … Adi Ratzon
October 8, 2020 | Carolyn Conte | Baltimore Jewish Times
It’s not every day you run into a member of a coed combat unit of the Israel Defense Forces. Meet Adi Ratzon, 30, the shlicha for the Baltimore Zionist District. She brings Israeli culture to the Baltimore community through unique programs. Ratzon is originally from Ramat Gan, Israel. She holds a bachelor’s in psychology and sociology from the Academic College of Tel Aviv-Yaffo.
Baltimore Zionist District Hosts ‘Unorthodox’ Actors
June 17, 2020 | Carolyn Conte | Baltimore Jewish Times
Two actors from “Unorthodox,” 30 people, and a parrot gathered around their screens the evening of June 14 for a Baltimore Zionist District discussion of the Netflix show starring Shira Haas about a girl who leaves an ultra-Orthodox community in New York for a new and unknown life in Germany.
Baltimore Jewish Community Reacts To George Floyd’s Death And Protests
June 3, 2020 | JT Staff | Baltimore Jewish Times
In the days since George Floyd’s death on May 25 in Minneapolis, the nation and world have been wracked by protests, fueled by outrage at Floyd’s death and what is viewed as a broader problem with the conduct of American police, particularly in regard to the nation’s black community.
Baltimore Zionist District Honors Israel’s Fallen
April 22, 2020 | Jesse Berman | Baltimore Jewish Times
Baltimore Zionist District will hold its Virtual Yom Hazikaron Memorial Ceremony on April 27. The digital event replaces what had been a planned in-person event, and is co-hosted by The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore, Chizuk Amuno Congregation, the JCC of Greater Baltimore, Friends of the IDF, and Beth Tfiloh Congregation.
The Tzofim Friendship Caravan Visits Baltimore
July 31, 2019 | Arielle Ashpes | Baltimore Jewish Times
On July 20, the 2019 Tzofim Friendship Caravan arrived at the Baltimore Zionist District (BZD) to perform for five days throughout the Baltimore area. Under the program organization and scheduling from BZD’s executive director, Caren Leven, the Tzofim traveled to various venues to perform throughout Maryland. For the Tzofim, as well as for each audience they performed for, it was a one-of-a-kind experience for everyone who took part.
Baltimore Zionist District Information Session And Mitzvah Project
March 29, 2019 | Victoria Brown | Baltimore Jewish Times
On March 24, Baltimore Zionist District (BZD) hosted an information session about a BZD-led trip to Israel this summer. It marked the beginning of a project through which people can donate toiletries, clothing and food items for the benefit of lone soldiers in the Israel Defense Forces.
Haifa-Born Caren Leven Takes Helm Of Baltimore Zionist District
December 7, 2018 | Susan Ingram | Baltimore Jewish Times
Her parents met in a kibbutz after her mom left the U.S. for Israel to volunteer during the Yom Kippur War. The young Caren Leven grew up in Haifa in a high-rise “filled with children.” She learned to speak English from her mother and Hebrew from her Israeli father.
Baltimore Zionist District Hires New Executive Director
November 29, 2018 | Staff Report | JMore
Caren Leven was recently named the new executive director of the Baltimore Zionist District. According to the organization’s website (bzdisrael.org), the Pikesville-based BZD’s mission is to “foster knowledge and understanding of the State of Israel, to facilitate dialogue, to raise awareness, and to advocate for a secure future for Israel.”
Baltimore Jewish Film Festival Offers Something For Everyone
March 26, 2018 | Simone Ellin | JMore
Ever wonder how the entries are selected for the William and Irene Weinberg Family Baltimore Jewish Film Festival, now it its 30th year?
It’s an “intense and multi-layered” process, according to Alyson Bonavoglia, artistic director of the Gordon Center for Performing Arts.