To all the Jewish people reading this,
First and foremost, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the incredible strength and resilience of our community. As a people, we have endured unimaginable pain, loss, and hatred throughout history. And yet, here we are, standing strong, continuing to preserve our heritage and traditions. I want to share a few thoughts in response to recent events, as well as my unwavering support for Israel, my belief in the importance of remembrance, and the need for us to stand united against hate.
The Holocaust: A Survivor’s Story and a Community's Legacy
My parents, like many of our loved ones, survived the Holocaust. Their stories are ones of unimaginable hardship, but they also symbolize the perseverance of the Jewish spirit. The Holocaust is an undeniable part of our history, and we must never allow its memory to fade. It is not just a tragedy that affected a generation—it is a warning to future generations about the dangers of hatred, prejudice, and intolerance.
To those who seek to deny or diminish the horrors of the Holocaust, I say this: we will never forget. We will never allow the memory of those who perished to be erased. The Holocaust happened. Our survival is a testament to the strength and endurance of our people, and we honor the memory of those we lost every single day.
Support for Israel: A Nation of Resilience and Hope
I am proud to support Israel, a nation that stands as a beacon of hope, security, and resilience in a region that has seen far too much conflict and pain. Israel is not just a political entity—it's a homeland for Jews worldwide, a place where we can live freely, with the right to self-determination and security. The challenges that Israel faces are complex, but my belief in its right to exist and flourish remains unwavering.
The leadership of Israel, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, continues to play an essential role in navigating these challenges. In the face of adversity, Israel’s commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens and its place in the world is undeniable. No matter the struggles ahead, I believe Israel will continue to thrive and be a central part of the Jewish people's future.
Condemning Hate and Speaking Out Against Harmful Figures
In this time, we also must recognize when harmful, dangerous rhetoric is being spread. Recently, figures like Kanye West have made public statements that perpetuate hatred and misinformation, especially about Jews. It's vital that we do not let such individuals or their words define who we are or the values we hold. We need to stand against hatred wherever it arises, whether it’s from public figures, social media, or other sources.
However, as we condemn hateful actions, we must remember that we are not defined by others' words. Our strength as a community comes from within—from our shared history, our collective resilience, and our unwavering commitment to justice, peace, and love.
Unity and Moving Forward Together
In the face of challenges—whether it's combating hatred, supporting our homeland, or preserving the memory of our ancestors—we must remain united. We must support each other, fight for justice, and stand proud of who we are. Together, we have faced unimaginable loss, and together, we continue to build a future that honors our past while looking forward to a more hopeful and just world.
To every Jew reading this, I want you to know that you are part of something extraordinary. Our community’s history is filled with trials, but it is also filled with triumphs. Let us continue to honor our ancestors, support each other, and stand strong, as we have always done.
