UF Hillel and the UF Israel Network are participating in a nationwide initiative to promote discussion of Israel on the Plaza of the Americas from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. today.
The discussion, called "Talk Israel," will be held on 20 campuses throughout North America, including UF, in an attempt to engage students in the dialogue of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Sharon Ashley, director of the Center for Israel Engagement, said the event is not a rally but a chance to explore ideas and discuss events during this crucial moment in the Middle East.
"Our goal is to emphasize the point that if we can't have peaceful dialogue on campus, how can we expect our leaders to communicate," said Joshua Kahn, the Jewish Agencies Israel program director at UF Hillel.
Palestine is seeking a unilateral decision from the United Nations this week instead of negotiating with Israel.
"We want to stress communication not only between the U.N. but also amongst students," Kahn said.
The discussion will take place in a tent, which will provide historical documents, statistics, maps and free Middle Eastern food.
Following the event there will be free drinks and dinner at Farah's on the Avenue, 1120 W University Ave., at 7:30 p.m. for a study abroad program information session. Representatives from four Israeli universities will be available to answer questions.
