Throughout history, speaking up has been a catalyst for change, shaping societies and influencing major events. From the Abolition of Slavery to the Civil Rights Movement, Women’s Suffrage, Environmental Protection, the Fall of the Berlin Wall, the End of Apartheid in South Africa, and even the Revolutionary War which led to the creation of the United States, these movements highlight the critical role of vocal advocacy. If these voices had remained silent, many changes might never have occurred, prolonging injustices and denying rights and freedoms to countless individuals.
No matter the context, our voice is a powerful tool—advocating for ourselves and others, promoting innovative ideas, negotiating deals, or upholding justice. Using our voice is essential for driving change.
Speaking up allows us to express our thoughts and beliefs, sparking meaningful conversations and opening new opportunities. Each voice is unique, shaped by individual experiences and insights.
As a woman, I am passionate about using my voice to advocate for justice and speak out against what is wrong. Although I typically avoid discussing politics or religion here, recent events have compelled me to do so. From the unexpected violence on October 7th to the large-scale attacks on April 13th—with over 170 air drones and numerous missiles, nearly all intercepted by Israeli, U.S., and EU defenses—I can no longer remain silent as my people face these attacks. I am being called to speak, and I am reminded of the resilience of my ancestors, the Jewish people, who have been victims of hate crimes for centuries.
As I’ve been reconnecting with my heritage, I’ve discovered others in the tribe who refuse to remain silent. These events by Hamas, intended to frighten, have only awakened an entire generation of sleeping giants. Like many, I went from being Jew-ish to being Jewish overnight, strengthening my connection to my heritage, traditions, and community, and prompting me to reflect on my role in a world still grappling with anti-Semitism.
The Holocaust was a horrific period in history, with six million Jews systematically exterminated. The establishment of Israel in 1948 offered hope and renewal, particularly for Holocaust survivors and those fighting anti-Semitism. Today, Israel is a vibrant, multicultural democracy, including Jews, Arabs, Druze, Bedouins, and Christians, all dedicated to cultural pluralism.
Despite 75 years passing, threats remain. Holocaust memorials and museums are poignant reminders of past atrocities, reinforcing our commitment to the mantra “never again.”
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RETIRED Senior Lecturer
2 个月An extraordinary woman. May her memory be a blessing.