"PANIM taught me how interconnected Judaism and politics are. You cannot be a Jew without trying to heal the problems of our world. You cannot be politically active without struggling with Jewish values." - Julia Greenberg PeP alumnus Chicago, IL
State Capital Program
Join PANIM in Sacramento in 2009 (Further dates and state capitals to be determined!)
For twenty years, PANIM has been bringing high school students to Washington, DC, looking at national social and political issues through a Jewish lens. In an effort to provide opportunities for more students, PANIM expanded its horizons beyond the Beltway and developed the state capital program. In conjunction with the Milken Community High School of Los Angeles, PANIM piloted its state capital program in Sacramento, California, in January of 2008.
Participants heard from young activists, volunteered across the city, and learned the importance of community service and political activism. Lobbying visits with their state senator’s or state assembly member’s offices gave the students the face-to-face experience with policy makers and educated them on state issues. The Assembly Majority Leader, Karen Bass (D-47), addressed the group, as did State Senator Darrell Steinberg (D-6). Both delivered inspirational speeches about how their involvement in politics began.
The pilot program was a great success and the students responded positively: “This program really helped me realize the strong connection between my Judaism and politics and I know this will influence my life,” said Joey Freeman, a student at Milken Community High School. “Through direct service and advocacy, we have demonstrated that youth truly do have a voice.” Classmate Amanda Zarabi stated, “I learned how to stand up for what I believe in!”
In 2009, PANIM plans to expand the state capital program. Agencies from across California will come to Sacramento for a four day Shabbaton program, from January 30, 2009 through February 2, 2009. Please see the tentative itinerary.
Interested? Register students for this program here or be in touch with Lia Katz at 301-770-5070 ext 202 for more information.
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state issues. The Assembly Majority Leader, Karen Bass (D-47), addressed the group, as did State Senator Darrell Steinberg (D-6). Both delivered inspirational speeches about how their involvement in politics began.
