“Last month, YOUNITED International School went on a geopolitical tour of Jerusalem, for two days of learning, discussion, observation, and formation. We began the tour in the Old City of Jerusalem, passing through the Armenian, Jewish, Muslim, and Christian quarters, visiting the Western Wall, and ascending to the Al-Aqsa Mosque on the Temple Mount, where we learned about its historical and political complexity. We ended the guided tour at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. Visiting these places allows each student to find where they belong and feel at home – in this city, which is a magnificent human mosaic.
“The second day focused on the two parts of Jerusalem, the West and the East. We talked about the history of the partition, the two peoples, the different borders – physical and historical – that divide the city, and also about the complex of different identities and the struggles over the city’s national and religious identity. We went to the Mount of Olives, from where we looked out on the western side of Jerusalem, passed through the Sheikh Jarrah neighborhood, drove to Rachel’s Tomb and a tour along the Separation Wall, and from there to the Mishkenot Sha’ananim neighborhood. Of course, it was impossible to end a visit to Jerusalem without experiencing the bustling Mahane Yehuda market on a Friday afternoon. We walked around the market, bought delicacies, and absorbed the variety of cultures. During the tour, we dealt with issues of identity, belonging, political struggles, and historical memory. The direct encounter with the places and stories created a profound educational experience, which enriched the students’ understanding and even strengthened the sense of connection and partnership between them.
“We returned tired, full of thoughts and unresolved questions, but more united as a community.”
