The State of Israel was born on May 14, 1948. It is a Jewish state and homeland formed after years of exile and tragedies. This event–this miracle–is what Yom Ha’Atzmaut celebrates. It is a day that all of Israel celebrates with immense joy and happiness. Scheck Hillel’s celebrations have only added to this massive, worldwide event. Walking through the halls of Scheck Hillel on Yom Ha’Atzmaut, the joy and pride emanating from each student and faculty member could clearly be seen and felt.

The day kicked off with a large assembly filled with music, dancing, and an amazing speech delivered by Rabbi Sprung, with attendees including students from preschool to high school. The assembly set the tone for the fun, joyous day to follow. During community time, many fun Israel-related activities took place, and delicious snow cones were served to students. Each and every student here at Scheck Hillel was involved in the day’s Yom Ha’Atzmaut celebrations, whether it was participating in fun activities, eating delicious snow cones, hanging out with friends, or simply listening to Israeli music. The joy and ruach were palpable!

The miracle of Yom Ha’Atzmaut is one that should be remembered and celebrated for many years to come. No one would have guessed that Israel, a country barely visible on a map at first glance, would win the War of Independence against Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan. Each of these fronts boasted more soldiers, more weapons, and a clear advantage over Israel. The State of Israel had only recently formed the day before and was immediately pushed into a war, one that they would be fighting by enlisting the help of Holocaust survivors and victims of persecution from neighboring Arab countries. Despite their clear disadvantage and trauma, they stood strong, fighting to protect the land of Israel, the Jewish Homeland.