MAC Team: Ruby Kaufman, Evia Cooper-Evans, Hannah Fassberg, Lola Bessoff
Red Team Captains: Itay Ofri, Fynn Skelton, Dylan Folbaum, Dana Luna
Blue Team Captains: Jayson Faupel, Andrew Lord, Ruby Stanley, Mia Barlow
STORY
In the past, Zootopia has been stricken with divide between predators and prey, letting injustice infiltrate the walls of community. But, thanks to the power of Chief Hopps and Chief Wilde, Zootopia has overcome this injustice and become one Kehillah Kadosha. To celebrate this success, we want to welcome the 2024 Zootopia Olympics, where animals from around the world gather in the grand city of Zootopia to compete fiercely for the ultimate glory of a medal. However, following the exhilarating opening ceremony, disaster strikes as the three metals mysteriously disappear. Now, Police Chief Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde must uphold the Jewish values of Tzedek, justice and integrity, as they race against time to recover the medals and restore fairness to the games. The motto “Try Everything” in Zootopia echoes the Jewish value of “Hachnasat Orchim” (הכנסת אורחים), emphasizing hospitality as not just accommodating guests physically but also embracing diversity, open-mindedness, and the courage to explore new experiences and perspectives. Splitting into two teams, Hopps and Wilde must lead the search through the city, determined to solve the mystery before the games come to a close. It’s a wild case, but with their noses to the ground and tails up, these two are determined to track down those medals faster than a cheetah chasing its lunch.
JUDAIC CONTENT
Tzedek (צדק): Tzedek, meaning justice in Hebrew, is a fundamental Jewish value that emphasizes fairness, righteousness, and moral integrity. Both in interpersonal connections as well as societal structures, Tzedek promotes our principles of ethical teachings in everyday affairs. Each day at camp, we work together to create a space that is built off of these foundations. Being able to hold ourselves accountable in creating a just and equitable summer camp experience. Like camp, the world in Zootopia aims to create an environment safe for all. In Mactopia, police Chief Judy Hopps and her partner Nick Wilde will exemplify this value through their relentless effort to recover the stolen medals at the 2024 Zootopia Olympics. They embody fairness and moral integrity, striving not only to catch the culprits but also to restore trust and ensure that justice prevails in the highly anticipated games. Just as Tzedek emphasizes righteousness in interpersonal and societal contexts, Judy and Nick uphold these principles to maintain the integrity of the Olympics, reinforcing the importance of ethical conduct and accountability.
Hachnasat Orchim (הכנסת אורחים): Hachnasat Orchim translates to “welcoming guests” or “hospitality” in Hebrew. Beyond physical accommodation, it encompasses embracing diversity, open-mindedness, and the courage to explore new experiences and perspectives. In the Zootopia Olympics scenario, the motto “Try Everything” resonates with Hachnasat Orchim as it encourages characters to embrace challenges and different roles with resilience and an open mind, mirroring the welcoming and inclusive spirit of this Jewish value. The motto “Try Everything” in Zootopia resonates deeply with Hachnasat Orchim, the value of welcoming guests and embracing diversity. Throughout their adventures, Judy Hopps and Nick Wilde encounter a myriad of animal species, each with unique perspectives and challenges. They demonstrate hospitality by accepting and learning from these differences, fostering a spirit of inclusion and openness. In the context of the Zootopia Olympics, characters are encouraged to embrace challenges and unfamiliar roles with resilience, mirroring the welcoming and inclusive spirit of Hachnasat Orchim.
Tikkun Olam (תיקון עולם): Tikkun Olam, which translates to “repairing the world” in Hebrew, reflects the Jewish principle of actively working towards a more just and equitable society. In the context of the 2024 Zootopia Olympics, the motto “Anyone Can Be Anything” resonates with Tikkun Olam as it promotes equality and inclusivity. In Zootopia, characters challenge stereotypes and societal norms, embracing the belief that every individual has the potential to contribute meaningfully regardless of their background or species. This aligns with Tikkun Olam’s emphasis on repairing social injustices and promoting a world where diversity is celebrated and all beings are valued equally. Thus, the pursuit of fairness and opportunity for all in Zootopia mirrors the Jewish value of Tikkun Olam, advocating for a society where everyone can thrive and contribute positively to the community.
Taglit (תגלית): Taglit, Hebrew for discovery, holds immense value in Judaism as it emphasizes the journey of self-exploration and understanding of one’s heritage and identity. This concept resonates deeply with the narrative of “Zootopia,” where Judy Hopps, a determined rabbit, embarks on a journey of discovery beyond the confines of her known world. Similarly, Taglit encourages young Jews to explore their roots, culture, and history firsthand, fostering a sense of belonging and connection to their Jewish identity. This journey mirrors Judy’s transformative experience in “Zootopia,” where she challenges stereotypes and learns the importance of unity and understanding among diverse communities. Just as Judy’s discoveries shape her worldview, Taglit empowers participants to embrace their heritage, contributing to a richer, more inclusive global Jewish community.
