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Dear friends,
As we look toward another election season, we are reminded that citizenship is not a passive act. Voting is one of the most meaningful ways we can shape the future of our communities, and how we vote deserves careful, deliberate thought.
As Jewish women, we naturally consider the domestic issues that affect our families, towns, schools, public safety, and economy. These concerns matter deeply. But equally important, I would argue, is another issue that has become impossible to separate from our civic responsibility: the relationship between the United States and Israel. This relationship is one that must remain steadfast and strong.
As we know all too well, the security of Israel and the fight against antisemitism have increasingly become part of our national political conversation. Decisions made in Washington have real consequences for the security of America’s Jewish citizens, the security of Israel, and America’s longstanding alliance with the Jewish state.
Our unique privilege as citizens of this country and as Jews requires that we take the time to consider the full picture: to investigate not only what candidates say, but how they govern and how this may affect us and our children. Voting records, public statements, and legislative actions all provide insight into where our elected officials stand on issues that matter to our community. We owe it to ourselves—and the next generation—to look beyond campaign slogans in order to make informed decisions. And we must, in part, make these decisions based on how candidates vote on issues pertaining to Israel.
This election cycle, it is worth noting that all of our House reps are up for reelection in November and some are being primaried in Connecticut on August 11 (a reminder: all House members are reelected every two years). So, I implore you to do your homework, educate yourselves, and look beyond your local district to all of our CT representatives and consider where each stands on the critical issue of Israel. Lastly, I would ask that you encourage your friends to vote. With races all over the country that may have a serious impact on our safety at home and the U.S./Israel relationship, we cannot afford to overlook any one candidate.
Women’s Philanthropy has always been about leading with purpose, engaging thoughtfully, and strengthening our community for generations to come. As Election Day nears, I hope each of us will approach our votes with the same intentionality we bring to our philanthropy: informed by our values, guided by facts, and mindful of the impact our choices have both here at home and across the Jewish world now and in the future.
May we all embrace the privilege and responsibility of voting with wisdom, purpose, and conviction.
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