Leadership Conference Looks at Jewish Life in London
Recently, our Women’s Engagement and Philanthropy Chair Harriette Wienner, had the incredible opportunity to join 33 other Jewish women from across the nation in London, England to learn about our Jewish community abroad.
Harriette and Debbi Weinberg from Baltimore participated in a special National Women’s Philanthropy Board Leadership Conference. Harriette and Debbi are both representatives on this board from The Associated. Wendy Miller, Amy Pollokoff, Nina Rosenzwog, Linda Hurwitz and Brenda Brown Rever also serve on this board from our community. The mission participants learned about antisemitism abroad, had a briefing from Tzipi Hotovely, the Israeli Ambassador to the United Kingdom, and spoke with the United States Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Jane D. Hartley.
In her own words, Harriette talks about what she saw and learned, particularly about antisemitism.
Eric D. Fingerhut, President and CEO of Jewish Federations of North America, Fireside Chat (paraphrased)
It is expected in our Jewish tradition to leave your tent open on all sides. We must be open and welcome to guests, even those guests who are not like us. Our collective tent needs to be large to accommodate everyone we need to encircle and thank for being inclusive. BUT sometimes, not everyone needs to be in their tent. Not everyone can be allowed these days. And it is OK for your safety and your sanity to protect your tent.
The antisemitism panel was held at the Marble Arch synagogue. Eric Fingerhut, Danny Morris (CST) and Gideon Falter (Committee Against Antisemitism) were the speakers.
Just an aside from me: Since there is no first amendment in the UK, it is much easier to prosecute hate speech and hate crimes.
Social media has allowed for the globalization spiderweb of antisemitism, creating modern and sophisticated content. Fighting antisemitism begins with education, Holocaust education, Middle East history, the indisputable facts.
At the end of the day, we have a choice to make: hide or fight. It’s as old as time for the Jewish people. One strong suggestion is to begin using phrases like “Jew Hate” in place of antisemitism because 1) It’s a clear, provocative and accurate description; and 2) those who are uneducated/ignorant don’t really know what it means.
Israeli Ambassador Tzipi Hotovely
“We all share the same Jewish destiny and it’s never been a stronger bond. This is our time. As women. As Jews. Let us concentrate on what makes us one. We will not deny our identity and must stand strong together.”
She also spoke of a phrase from Ariel Sharon that says “what you see from here, you can’t see from there” which means to her: We need to seek perspective from each other around the country and around the world. Work together for peace. Times have not changed, but fortunately we have.
United States Ambassador Jane Hartley invited us into her gorgeous home for tea and conversation. She’s only the second female ambassador in 200 years.
Ambassador Hartley focused on the role of philanthropy, specifically female in leading to peace and understanding. She believes it is strong, empowered women like us who make a real difference. Her advice to women in philanthropy and activism: be prepared, show up on time, do your homework and speak up. Your voice is important.
Btw: I have a connection to her through a friend in Ashkelon. My friend Sofi Pinchas in Ashkelon is her sister-in-law. What a wonderful partnership we have!!
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