Israeli Day Parade!

Great Families, Great Communities, Great Moments, Greater MetroWest!

In my opinion, this was the best event we’ve had as Diller. This was the first time that we really got to go all out, and I mean ALL OUT. We got dressed up in our shirts, capes, bandanas, hats, and face paint, and then we walked down the streets of NYC shouting and cheering and chanting and singing. 
This was such a memorable experience for me, because I just remember having so much fun at every moment. I think that as a cohort, we are able to bring such amazing energy and such life to everything we do; it doesn’t matter if we are stuck waiting for an hour, because we can make fun out of anything. 

Annabelle rocking her IDP outfit!

But I think the most special part about this experience is that we got to march down the streets of NYC, accompanied by thousands of Jews, in the name of Israel. This is SO important because it shows that we aren’t just a group of 20 American teens who care about Israel, but that we’re part of a movement of thousands that cares about Israel and its statehood.

Eric, Corey, Julian, Seth, Juliet, and Sarah enjoying the parade!

The only part that rivaled that revelation, was the fact that there were twice as many people watching the parade as there were marching in it. To see thousands of faces cheering us on and waving to us was so moving, because I know that just by seeing my face I made an impact. 

Juliet, Max, Hannah, Lindsey, Rebecca, and Annabelle before the parade!

This just shows that no matter how many people may be against the great state of Israel, the spirit and dedication of the Jewish people will always prevail. 
It was hard to see protesters degrading something that fills every Jew with warmth and love, but their screams were drowned out by our love. 
When people think about Israel, they imagine a war torn country thousands of miles away; I hope now that after seeing us, when they think of it, they can see my face and realize that it’s more than just a country, it’s our homeland. 

Dillers during the parade!

The parade was such an amazing experience for everyone, including myself. The spirit radiated throughout the streets of NYC. We were all decked out in our blue and white with the yellow parade shirts. The wait for the parade was not the most favorite because of how hot it was outside, but once we got moving, it was a BLAST!