What We Know About American Jewish Youth and Young Adults: Some Implications for Birthright Israel

Publication Date: November 2000

Publisher:

Author(s): Barry Chazan; Steven M. Cohen

Research Area: Population and demographics

Keywords: American Jews; Jewish Youth; Israel Experience

Type: Report

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

This article aims to answer the question, "Who are Jewish young people in the United States between the ages 14-26?" through a literature review, discussions with experts, and an analysis of the 1990 National Jewish population survey and concludes that: The effort to bring many more American Jewish youngsters to Israel demands sensitivity to the new realities of contemporary American Jewish youth:

1) We need to be aware of the ever-changing demography of the 14- to 26-year-old age group. 2) We need to distinguish among teenagers, college students, and young adults in promoting the Israel experience. 3) We need to approach our young Jews as American consumers and American young people. 4) We need to think of their Jewish identities in terms of a broad spectrum of expressions, rather than as either affiliated or unaffiliated. 5) We need to take into account the new Israel that 21 st-century Jewish youth will experience. 6) We need to recognize that visiting Israel is the exception and not the rule for the bulk of American Jewry, and it is not reinforced by either peer or adult Jewish society.