A resource for discussion at your Jewish New Year gathering.

As we gather this Rosh Hashana with family and friends, let’s bring a special conversation to our holiday tables. Birthright Israel has touched the lives of thousands of Canadian Jewish young adults. This New Year, we invite you to ask these questions around your table, to spark an important conversation:

  • Who has been on a Birthright Israel trip?
  • What was your highlight?
  • How did the experience shape your Jewish identity, your connection to Israel, or your involvement in the community today?

To get the ball rolling, you can read the remarks one recent participant and McGill University student, Noa, had to share:

“Being in Israel this year absolutely strengthened me. I needed to be there to reaffirm my connection. My Birthright Israel tour educator really emphasized how important Diaspora Jewry is and that we too are up against very difficult and stressful situations, on campuses and across our many cities. What makes me most emotional is not having the opportunity for open, healthy dialogue. And at an academic institution no less! Birthright Israel encouraged me to refuse to be silent or be silenced. I will not let anyone intimidate me.”

These stories matter. They connect generations — the participant who traveled, the parents who encouraged them, the grandparents who dreamed of this possibility, and the donors who make it all happen.

Birthright Israel is more than a trip. It’s a gift that strengthens our people and secures our Jewish future. At your table, share memories, spark dialogue, and remind each other: when one young adult goes on Birthright Israel, the entire Jewish community is enriched. We all know the expression, ‘it takes a village,’ and for Birthright Israel to be available for years to come, we need our entire community to step up and support the program.

This Rosh Hashana, please make Birthright Israel part of your table conversation — and part of your charitable commitment to building a stronger Jewish future for all generations.

If no one at your table has experienced Birthright Israel firsthand, that’s okay. Share the remarkable impact: over 900,000 participants across the globe — including more than 50,000 from Canada — return with pride, Jewish identity, and a deeper sense of belonging. And encourage those ages 18–26 in your circle to claim their Birthright and take part in this transformative journey.