[HANASHIR:14304] Another Hatikvah question

[Batiya5723 <Batiya5723...>]

Another question about this song...

In my work as a religious school teacher, songleader and music specialist, I 
have lately been questioned by my older students (middle and high school age) 
about the "relevance" of singing Hatikvah in light of current events. As one 
of my seventh-graders put it, "If I were an Arab member of the Knesset and 
had to stand while the song was being sung at the opening of session, I'm not 
sure HOW I'd feel. It sure doesn't speak to the Israeli-Arab's view of 
things."

I've already brought this question to my Educator, who says to welcome the 
questions, but that as long as the song remains the national anthem of 
Israel, we will sing it (and I will continue to teach it) at religious school 
Israeli-related events.

I would welcome the perspectives of other teachers who have faced similar 
questions, and how they worked with them in the context of a lesson. Thanks 
in advance. --Beth Hamon