Consular Officer Andy Sisk orchestrated a superb cultural program by inviting two American stars in Israel's "Women's National Basketball Association" to address a group of 30 Israeli Arab high school students at the American Corner in Jaffa. The professional basketball players -- Ivory Latta, (well known for her dynamic personality and work with disadvantaged youth), and Deanna Jackson (who is in her third year of playing in the Israeli league) -- spoke about their experiences growing up in the American South. The students were mesmerized as the stars highlighted the importance of education, explaining how they were able to use their basketball talent to receive athletic scholarships at major universities. After taking questions, the players led the students through a series of drills that left them all sweaty but happy. The message of the accomplished African-American stars resonated with the students, who are members of Israel's minority Arab community.
Israeli Arab high school students pose with WNBA stars outside the Arab Jewish Community Center
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