Aya I. Shechter, at The Blogs

Aya I. Shechter

Oct 18, 2024, 8:04 PM

Learning from the past, Strengthening our future

Last week, while preparing dinner, my son asked me why we always talk about Israel at home. “Why does it matter so much, Ima?” This simple question sparked a reflection on the urgency of ensuring that the next generation...

Sep 14, 2024, 10:27 PM

It has been almost a year and we are still failing at working together

October 7th, 2024, will mark the first anniversary of one of the darkest days in recent history for the Jewish people. It’s a day when 1,400 innocent lives—women, men, children, babies, and the elderly—were brutally tortured, raped, and murdered....

Jun 5, 2024, 6:44 AM

Leadership: Even Moses Needed Training

As we approach the holiday of Shavuot, and after the holiday of Passover, I got to thinking about Moses and leadership. In the annals of history, few figures stand as tall as Moses, revered for leading the Israelites out of...

May 6, 2024, 7:07 AM

Israeli-Americans: A Strong Voice against Antisemitism in America

In recent months, a remarkable phenomenon has emerged within the Israeli-American community in the United States. Since October 7th, Israeli-Americans have been increasingly visible in standing up against the tide of antisemitism sweeping across the nation. This surge of...

Apr 18, 2024, 7:27 AM

Uniting in Adversity: The Power of Collective Identity

Israeli-American Students, part of the IAC Mishelanu program on US Campuses.

In the intricate tapestry of Jewish history, moments of adversity often serve as crucibles for identity. From the biblical narratives of the sons of Jacob to the modern challenges facing Jewish communities worldwide, the thread of identity weaves through...

Sep 11, 2019, 10:29 AM

We Don’t Need This Education

Nelson Mandela said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” And he was right. Education has the power to change reality for generations to come. It can help address environmental issues, inclusion...

Feb 15, 2019, 4:52 PM

What’s in a name?

Israeli-Americans have no identifiable external characteristics. Remove the accent for those of us who were born in Israel, remove a clearly distinguishable name of Jewish or Israeli origin, and you may no longer be asked inevitable questions like, “What...

About Me

Aya Shechter is the Chief Program Officer at the Israeli American Council (IAC). Aya is a dynamic advocate for the Israeli-American community, blending personal experiences with a rich professional background. Born in Israel and now based in the United States, she's a cornerstone of the Israeli-American diaspora. Aya, married to an Israeli-American and a mother of four, brings a deep understanding of both cultures to her work and writing. With expertise in law and Jewish studies, she's committed to strengthening the bond between Israel and the United States through meaningful dialogue and community engagement.