MEGHAN MCCAIN & SENATOR JOE LIEBERMAN

STANDING UP TO ANTI-SEMITISM AT THE CENTER

IRENE HANAN

THIS SUMMER AT THE HEIGHT OF ISRAEL’S LATEST CONFLICT WITH GAZA IT SEEMED EVERY CELEBRITY AND INFLUENCER WAS PUTTING OUT VICIOUS ANTI-ISRAEL PROPAGANDA, LEADING TO A NEW SURGE OF ANTI-SEMITISM HERE IN AMERICA.

It felt like you couldn’t open social media without seeing dangerous misinformation and vilification of Israel. Where were the truth speakers? Where were the pro-Israel voices? Very few people were speaking out publicly for Israel or for Jews, and the silence was deafening. It was during this time that Meghan McCain posted a picture of her dad, former presidential candidate Senator John McCain, and Senator Joe Lieberman at the Kotel. Her caption, seen by over a million of her followers on Twitter and Instagram read “All my passion, everything I believe in my soul comes from the two of them−proud Zionist today, tomorrow, always.” This was not the first time McCain had showed her support for Israel, but it was the moment when we decided to bring her and Lieberman to the Sephardic Center to discuss “standing up to anti-semetism”

The Sephardic Community Center and the SCA joined together to bring these two strong Israel supporters to our community. Meghan, who is well-known from her time on ABC’s The View, as well as being a columnist and author, is also famous for speaking her mind and advocating for what she believes in.

This was Lieberman’s second time coming to our Center, and his affinity and love for our community was apparent. He is known for his integrity and is the true embodiment of a Jewish hero. Ricky Novick, the president of the SCC said, “Bringing high caliber events like this to the Center has always been one of our priorities. As a community that cherishes our connection to Israel it was our honor to make this program a reality.“

Corie Adjmi, award winning author, moderated the event. She interviewed our guests with eloquence and warmth. It was obvious she cares deeply about this issue and put much thought and preparation into her role. The audience felt as if we were listening to a discussion between three long time friends.

Jeffrey Beyda, president of the SCA said, “Advocating for Israel, fighting anti-Semitism, supporting those who speak out against it and preparing our young adults for the challenges Jewish Americans face on college campuses are part of the SCA’s core values and mission. The SCA is constantly working to fulfill that goal and working with like-minded institutions that share our values. It was our pleasure to invite a select group of young adults to participate in a meet and greet with the guests as well as ask them questions as part of the main program.”

The night was inspiring on many levels. McCain and Lieberman had an obvious love and admiration for each other. It was so special for our community to be able to bring them together. They spoke with intelligence and pride about a range of issues that affect the Jewish community. It was uplifting and educational to hear their perspectives. The audience was truly moved by the words of both guests. The discussion was at times a behind the scenes look at politics and media as well as a call to action to everyone present to get involved, not be silent and not be afraid.

Thank you to Kathy Shabot at the Center for everything you did to make sure this event was a huge success!

Irene Hanan is a board member of the SCA and program chair of the SCC’s Israel Advocacy department.