Hand in Hand Advances Bilingual Education at the Knesset
On January 14th 2026, students and staff from our Max Rayne Hand in Hand Jerusalem School were invited to speak at a special parliamentary meeting on public education and democracy. The meeting took place during “Democracy Week,” a Ministry of Education initiative marked by students and schools nationwide.
Led by the incomparable vice principal Engi Wattad, our Jewish and Arab students told the Knesset committee why bilingual, integrated education driven by values like equality and multiculturalism is essential for preserving and strengthening democracy. And why Hand in Hand schools only grow more essential in a time where democratic norms are threatened.
Why Bilingual Education Matters Now
“I want everyone sitting here to come visit our school and see how it is possible to live differently, and how happy we are to live together,” shared Ahava, a 14-year-old student at the Hand in Hand Max Rayne Jerusalem High School. “Without separation, without racism, without hatred. The way teenagers should be able to live in a just world.”
“I wish that all schools in Israel will be as equal, open, and values-driven, as our schools,” shared Ibrahim, a Palestinian student at the Hand in Hand Max Rayne Jerusalem High School. “I hope that from this day here in the Knesset, and from ‘Democracy Week’ in general, a message will go out to all residents of this place, without distinction of religion, origin, gender, or nationality. This change, which can turn Israel into a better place, must begin with the education of the next generation, through the education system.”
A Lighthouse for Shared Society
Hand in Hand’s long-time friend MK Rabbi Gilad Kariv, who chaired the committee, shared the following message: “You are truly a lighthouse for shared society in the education system. Thank you, the parents and teachers, and I only wish that more of these important schools could be built.“
When the word got out that Hand in Hand students were speaking before this committee, other long-time friends to Hand in Hand, like MK Aymen Odeh and MK Naama Lazimi, excitedly joined the meeting too.
Indeed, we value the opportunity to amplify our voices in the halls of power, and advance the democratic values at the core of Hand in Hand’s work, especially at a time when these values are being threatened.
Thank you for enabling us to continue advancing a shared Jewish-Arab society, and bolstering democracy at such a crucial time.
