One of the roles that Jewish Federations and Jewish Community Relations Councils play across the country is to provide a point of connection between elected officials at all levels, and the Jewish community. These are relationships which are important when it comes to making sure that the voice of the Jewish community is heard on a range of topics, including Israel advocacy and matters of social justice. In New Hampshire we are lucky to have many elected officials who are aware of the social justice concerns of our community as well as the level of commitment and interest when it comes to Israel. For these reasons we were delighted to host Congresswoman Ann McClane Kuster (D) at the Jewish Federation of New Hampshire building in Manchester at the end of November.
During her talk Congresswoman Kuster discussed her visit to Israel this past summer and some of the insights she gained during meetings and conversations with government officials, community leaders and average Israelis on the street. There are many organizations that provide opportunities for elected officials to visit Israel and learn about Israeli society at all levels - personally I think these programs are important not only because they help bolster connections between the US and Israel (the only democracy in the Middle East and a close US ally) but because they offer our leaders a chance to become immersed in Jewish culture and history, something which can only foster greater understanding. It is commendable that Congresswoman Kuster took the time to go to Israel to see firsthand some of the realities, challenges and triumphs that are part of daily life there, and equally as laudable, I would argue, that she took time upon her return to reach out to the Jewish community and share some of her insights.
Copyright Daniel E. Levenson 2013.
