As a proud Canadian Jew and Chairman of the World Board of Trustees of Keren Hayesod, representing 60 Jewish communities across 45 countries, I have witnessed a profound awakening in the Jewish and Zionist world since October 7th. This awakening, born of unimaginable pain, has reignited a deep sense of connection, even among those who once felt distant from the destiny of the Jewish state and people. My most recent trip to Israel made one thing clear: the road to the country's full rehabilitation, emotionally and physically, is still long. That is why we must harness this powerful wave of solidarity to strengthen our bonds and double down on our support for Israel in the years ahead.
This most recent trip to Israel, was my 12th since October 7th 2023, traveling alongside the leaders of Keren Hayesod, visiting the projects we support and meeting with Israeli public officials. Just days after the heinous attacks, I was in Israel with our global leadership, witnessing firsthand the country girding itself to protect its borders and its citizens, and unprecedented efforts to support victims and rebuild communities shattered by the attack.
For many years, the phrase “Israel needs a strong Diaspora, and Diaspora needs a strong Israel” might have sounded like a cliché – easy to say, sometimes harder to fully grasp. October 7th changed everything. That day proved beyond doubt how deeply intertwined our fates are, and how strong the bonds that connect us truly are. The attack on Israel was not just an attack on the Jewish state, it was an attack on the entire Jewish world. The outpouring of antisemitism on the streets of Toronto, London, Amsterdam, Sydney, and so many other cities around the world, made that crystal clear.
Since October 7th, Keren Hayesod has been addressing Israel’s immediate and long-term needs, continuing a legacy of more than 100 years. The numbers have been historic: Keren Hayesod saw its fundraising surge beyond expectations. Our typical annual fundraising average over the past few years has been around $180 million. Since October 7th, the organization has raised approximately $450 million, an unprecedented spike in our fundraising results. Much of this funding goes to our strategic partner, the Jewish Agency, as well as to other nationwide projects. This is not just a spike; it is a clear statement of commitment.
However, I share these numbers with some trepidation. This trip has made it clear to me that the rehabilitation of Israel, emotionally and physically, will take years. The Jewish people around the globe face growing and intense challenges. Antisemitism has intensified, and sadly, some of our donors and supporters have been harassed and demonized, simply for standing in solidarity with Israel and the Jewish people.
This has led some to revisit the post-October 7th conversation about prioritizing local needs such as security, education, and community services. However, this perceived dichotomy is a mistake, it fails to recognize how deeply interconnected the entire picture truly is. Supporting and strengthening Israel impacts the security of Jewish communities in the Diaspora, and vice versa. Therefore, we cannot, and must not, prioritize one over the other. Instead, we must step up across all fronts and do our very best, both locally and for Israel, at this historic time.
There is no room for “donor fatigue”, nor can we avert our eyes from the ongoing pain and devastation that so many in Israel continue to endure. As one major donor, himself facing unprecedented levels of antisemitism said: “I can’t accept the notion of donor fatigue. Anybody who feels that, should try a minute of an Israeli soldier’s fatigue”.
This trip to Israel was a mixture of the present pain many are feeling and cautious optimism about future opportunities. The pain of October 7th is still very much felt; the hostages are not yet home. The war continues, with over 900 soldiers having lost their lives, and so many in Israel wounded both physically and emotionally. It is also hard not to see that this is a time of great opportunity. Israel’s incredible achievements against terrorism in Lebanon, Syria, Iran, and other fronts have positioned Israel in an unprecedented manner for a new strategic era - for hopefully peace or perhaps cooperation and détente with more of its neighbours.
It was also so evident to me that the people of Israel draw strength and optimism from knowing that Jews around the world support and stand with them. Also striking was how at each meeting, Israeli’s I met, expressed concern about the safety and security of Jewish communities in the diaspora.
As we face the challenges ahead, we must remember that the future of the Jewish people around the world and the security of the people of Israel are deeply intertwined and hence the need for a strong show of solidarity from diaspora Jews and our allies around the world. At this crucial time for Israel, our support must continue to grow. Fulfilling our collective responsibility will sustain Israel and the Jewish people, inspire the younger generation, and ensure that our people thrive for generations to come.
Wishing klal Israel a Shana Tova U'metuka. May 5786 bring peace and the immediate return of our hostages. Am Israel Chai.