“Our journey to Israel offered a meaningful chance to build connections — both with the people who live there, and with each other.”
Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins led members of the Westchester County delegation on a study trip to Israel, to help better understand the complex issues effecting the region. The visit was Jenkins’s fourth trip to the country, and was designed to strengthen cultural understanding, explore opportunities for collaboration, and deepen connections between Westchester County and communities throughout Israel. The delegation met with Israeli leaders, community organizations and residents, gaining firsthand insight into the region’s history, religion, economy, and diverse cultural and social landscape.
Jenkins said: “I was honored to be asked to lead the Westchester delegation of elected and public officials on the study trip to Israel. Our journey to Israel offered a meaningful chance to build connections — both with the people who live there, and with each other. We now have a deeper understanding of the cultural, political and economic dynamics in the region, while also strengthening our relationships as colleagues committed to serving the people of Westchester. Experiences like this one help us to lead with greater awareness, compassion, and connection with others. To witness firsthand the work being done to find a way to co-exist in peace by the people experiencing it sends a powerful message of hope that can be carried back here in Westchester.”
The trip was sponsored by the Westchester Jewish Council, and included trips to key historical sites such as:
- Meetings with Jerusalem Deputy Mayor Adir Schwartz and members of the US Embassy
- A trip to Sderot to learn about the October 7 attack, and a visit to Tel Aviv to reflect on Israelis’ resilience in communities along the Gaza border
- A walking tour through Jerusalem’s Old City featuring Jewish, Christian and Muslim quarters
- A visit to the Max Rayne Yad B’Yad (Hand in Hand) K-12 Jerusalem School where Jewish and Muslim children learn in a bilingual Hebrew and Arabic program together
- A tour of Yad Vashem, Israel’s largest national memorial to the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust
Director of Intergovernmental Relations Steve Bass said: “This trip offered an invaluable opportunity to observe the complex, resilient and above all, inspiring experience of the Jewish, Christian and Muslim communities that make up the State of Israel. Hearing directly from local leaders and residents gave us a more grounded perspective on the challenges they navigate every day, and the solutions they are creating to integrate and live peacefully together. I am grateful for the chance to help strengthen ties with our closest international ally, and promote greater understanding about the special relationship between our country and Israel.”
Director of Policy and Programs for the Faith Community Crystal Collins said: “As a Black Christian woman visiting Israel, I am deeply moved by the rich tapestry of history and faith that intertwines in this land. This journey has opened my eyes to the unique challenges faced by the diverse communities coexisting in this vibrant country, especially amid ongoing conflict. I believe that through dialogue and understanding, we can build connections that honor both our differences and our shared humanity. I hope to share the insights I gained and continue engaging in meaningful conversations that advocate for peace.”