Jewish Teens Find Strength and Unity at BBYO Global Gathering

B'nai B'rith Youth Organization (BBYO) hosted their Centennial International Convention (IC) in February 2024, providing vital reunification and reassurance for the Jewish teen community. The largest annual gathering of Jewish youth worldwide, this year's IC hosted over 3,700 teens from 480 chapters representing 46 countries – including 40 Israeli teens. It was especially meaningful that members of Israel’s Druze community and a delegation from Kibbutz Magen, one of the kibbutzim attacked by Hamas on October 7, were able to participate.

Recognizing the toll of increasing antisemitism and concern over global events, BBYO made supporting teens' sense of pride and belonging a top priority. A first-of-its-kind survey leading up to IC revealed Jewish students facing discrimination at school, online harassment, and internal struggles with whether to disengage from certain activities out of safety concerns.

To directly address these challenges, BBYO curated an inclusive lineup of speakers and educators to engage teens in open dialogue around Israel, Jewish identity, and combating antisemitism. Influential voices included Rabbi Sharon Brous, Columbia professor Shai Davidai, Anti-Defamation League CEO Jonathan Greenblatt, and Israel's former special envoy on antisemitism, Noa Tishby. BBYO leadership recognize that Jewish pride stems from Jewish knowledge, and teens’ understanding their own story and faith is a vital precursor to feeling confident standing up in environments where their voices need to be heard.

While community building, education and leadership development were central themes of the conference, joyful celebration played an equally vital role. Musical youth-led Shabbat services, dance parties in hallways, and an electrifying "BBYO Block Party" with activities like laser tag, allowed teens to experience the vibrancy of Jewish life. High-profile performers included Flo Rida, Israeli pop star Noa Kirel, and DJs Two Friends.

The weekend's significance extended beyond the teen attendees. Over 1,500 adults convened as well, including representatives from over 200 Jewish organizations exploring initiatives around the future of Jewish leadership and talent. Support from the Mandel Foundation, a 3-year grant of $3.6 million, was recognized for increasing conference capacity by 15% despite increased security, transportation, and food costs.

In its 100th year of programming, BBYO demonstrated its global influence and made history with the election of Joelle Abaew of Germany as its first president from outside North America. The convention served as an empowering and transformative experience uniting Jewish teens through learning, celebration, and collective advocacy against the resurgence of antisemitism. The gathering showcased resilience while providing pathways for the rising generation to proudly shape the future of a vibrant, global Jewish community.