At the Heart of Israel's History: Immigration from Ethiopia and its contributions to the State of Israel

This year again, ECUJE, in partnership with the World Zionist Organization (WZO), is pleased to offer you a series of online lectures, in easy Hebrew, led by Ronen Gurevich. This monthly series focuses on a fascinating topic: the waves of immigration that shaped the land and State of Israel from the 19th century to the present day. These interactive lectures are designed to be accessible to everyone, even those who are not yet fully fluent in Hebrew, while providing an enriching cultural and historical immersion. 2024-2025 Program Wednesday, October 30, 2024 The Revival of the Hebrew Language Delve into the history of the Hebrew revival, led by major figures such as Eliezer Ben Yehuda, Yosef Klausner, Abraham Shalonsky, and other influential figures. An exploration of their impact on the Israeli language and culture. Thursday, November 21, 2024 Waves of immigration to the Land of Israel before the First World War Discover the first waves of Jewish immigration to the Land of Israel, their challenges, and their contributions to the rebirth of the yishuv. Thursday, January 2, 2025 The third, fourth and fifth waves of immigration to the Land of Israel A journey through the waves of migration that marked the beginning of the 20th century, with their impacts on emerging Israeli society. Thursday, February 13, 2025 Illegal immigration and the fight against the White Paper (1939-1948) A look at the difficult period of illegal immigration and resistance to the British White Paper, which restricted the entry of Jews into Palestine. Thursday, March 6 and 20, 2025 Mass immigration to the State of Israel in the 1950s and 1960s Explore major migration operations, such as mass aliyah, and the settlement of newcomers in the nascent State of Israel. This lecture will be divided into two parts. Thursday, April 10, 2025 Immigration from the Soviet Union (1970s-1990s) A focus on Soviet and post-Soviet waves of migration and their considerable contribution to Israeli society and economy. Wednesday, April 23, 2025 7. The impact of the Eichmann trial The trial of Adolf Eichmann, which opened in Jerusalem in April 1961, marked a turning point in Israeli society's relationship with the Holocaust. This conference will thus analyze its impact by exploring the evolution of the Israeli memory question before and after this founding event. It will also review the context of the trial, its progress and the way in which the Israeli legal system approached it. Thursday, May 29, 2025 8. Immigration from Ethiopia and its contributions to the State of Israel Learn about the major Ethiopian aliyah operations, as well as the impact of this immigration on Israeli culture and society. Thursday, June 19, 2025 9. Immigration dynamics in the 21st century Analyze recent trends: immigration from Latin America, from France since 2015, and people fleeing the Russo-Ukrainian war since 2022. Why participate in this series of conferences? – Improve your Hebrew: Learn the fascinating history of immigration to Israel while practicing Hebrew in an interactive and accessible setting. – Rich and captivating historical content: Each lecture immerses you in an essential aspect of the history of the Land and the State of Israel. – Open to all: This cycle is aimed at everyone, whether you are a beginner or advanced in Hebrew, thanks to an adapted educational approach. About Ronen Gurevich Ronen Gurevich, 37, is a passionate teacher, born and trained in Israel. With experience as a history teacher and educator in an Israeli high school, Ronen has also taught adult civics. A graduate in social sciences and history, he speaks several languages, including Hebrew, English, Russian, and some French. Based in Paris for the past year, he now teaches Hebrew, bringing an accessible and interactive approach to his lectures.