The recently-created Canadian Jewish Political Affairs Committee has launched a fellowship for Canadian students “interested in politics, public policy, networking with ministers and other members of Parliament, and Israel advocacy,” according to the email sent out by Hillel.
Fellows were chosen last week, and, says the outreach coordinator, “will have the opportunity to meet other students who are passionate about Israel and politically engaged,” and “network with senior political and community members.” Fellows will be able “to attend other exclusive CJPAC events across the country, which are usually only open to a select group of adult community leaders.” The fellowship also includes a trip to Ottawa in February, where the students will receive election and media training with experts. The CJPAC fellows come from all across the country, with a total of 23 in the program, including multiple McGill students.
CJPAC was established just prior to the January 2006 federal elections in order to get Jews more involved in the Canadian political process. In a recent article from the Canadian Jewish News, CJPAC executive director Josh Cooper explained that the independent organization is made up of a “12-person board whose activities are funded by non-tax-deductible donations.” Cooper previously headed the now-defunct Canadian Council for Israel and Jewish Advocacy. With over 3000 current members, CJPAC aims to help “Jews to become politically active, [so] they can have influence on issues of concern to the Jewish community,” according to the article.
The non-profit organization is funded by individual and corporate donations, although its involvement in political activities means donors cannot receive tax exemptions. CJPAC is not affiliated with any particular political party, and encourages its members to endorse the politicians of their choice.
The selection process for the fellows included an application with various questions regarding Canada’s role in the Middle East, students’ political experience, and a telephone conversation with the program coordinator.