Over the past 17 months since Hamas attacked Israel, Jewish communities worldwide have faced unprecedented challenges. The upcoming World Zionist Congress election represents a critical juncture for our collective future. As a candidate on the Aish Ha'am slate, I am calling on American Jews to recognize the profound impact your vote will have on shaping the priorities that guide Israel and Jewish communities globally.
The World Zionist Congress is far more influential than many realize. This body determines how the World Zionist Organization (WZO) allocates over $1.5 billion annually, manages more than 15% of Israel's land, and employs tens of thousands of people both inside and outside of Israel. Its decisions reverberate through Israeli political leadership and Jewish communities across the globe. When you cast your vote, you are directly influencing these consequential resource allocations.
The urgency of this moment cannot be overstated. In the aftermath of October 7, the Anti-Defamation League reported a staggering 360% increase in antisemitic incidents across the United States. In New York alone, NYPD statistics reveal that anti-Jewish hate crimes outnumber those against all other groups combined. This alarming surge demands not just our attention, but our action.
Aish Ha'am emerged as a response to these challenges. Our slate unites young Jewish Americans who are already leading efforts to combat antisemitism, promote education, and unify our people. The candidates represent diverse backgrounds but share an unwavering commitment to Jewish values and Israel's security.
I joined the Aish Ha'am slate because I've witnessed firsthand how Aish brings Jewish people together regardless of religious background. Their vision aligns with what I believe we desperately need now: unity in the face of division, education in the face of ignorance, and strength in the face of hostility.
Our slate includes remarkable individuals already making significant impacts. Shabbos Kestenbaum sued Harvard University for antisemitic discrimination. Students Eli Tsives, Eden Yadegar, and Bella Ingber have courageously challenged their universities' treatment of Jewish students. Social media voices like Melinda Strauss, Zach Sage Fox, and Lizzy Savetsky use their platforms to counter misinformation and hatred. Rabbis Steven Burg and Elliot Mathias bring decades of experience spreading Torah values through Aish's global work.
Aish Ha'am's platform is built on four pillars essential to our community's future. First, we commit to fostering unity among all Jews regardless of background, recognizing that our greatest strength comes from standing together. Second, we will fight antisemitism through education and advocacy in universities, online spaces, and communities worldwide. Third, we will strengthen Jewish identity by prioritizing Jewish education and connection to reignite pride in our heritage. Finally, we pledge unwavering support for Israel's security, prosperity, and rightful place in the world at a time when our homeland faces unprecedented attacks.
The structure of this election mirrors the Israeli Knesset system—you vote for an entire slate rather than individual candidates. The more votes each slate receives, the more of their candidates will serve as delegates to the Congress, amplifying the collective voice of that slate in these critical decisions.
In fighting to combat antisemitism and support yeshivas, I've seen how effective advocacy and representation can drive meaningful change. However, the challenges facing Jewish communities today transcend local politics. They demand a coordinated global response grounded in authentic Jewish values and unwavering support for Israel and that is where the World Zionist Congress can make meaningful change.
We stand at a crossroads in Jewish history. The rise in antisemitism, attempts to delegitimize Israel, and fractures within our own community, test our resolve. But throughout our history, the Jewish people have faced and surpassed challenges by coming together, recommitting to our shared values, and taking decisive action.
I urge you to vote for Aish Ha'am in the World Zionist Congress election. This is not merely a symbolic gesture—it is a tangible step toward securing the Jewish future we envision. We cannot afford to stand on the sidelines and watch history repeat itself. Vote for your community. Vote for your values. Vote for Aish Ha'am. aish.com/vote/SamBerger
