In a world where saying “I’m from Israel” can feel like a risk, a new El Al ad captures a simple, powerful longing: to be ourselves, without apologizing.
Read this during a visit to Japan. Although I have a second passport, entered as an Israeli. At no time any issues. I don't show my Magen David, Chai and Israeli map pendants on my necklace, but after speaking with other tourists (Taiwan, Indonesia and local Japanese) feel more at ease. They are very pleased to meet me. I am sure it's vastly different in Europe ( where I have little desire to go). Yes, even after 50 years in Israel, even before I say a word, I am often approached in English!
As a US goy, I found this post interesting. Once I'd sorted myself during the antisemetic riots of 2024, I knew who I was in regard to Jews and Israel. So I purchased a Magen David that is alleged to be a piece of an Iron Dome rocket. I also have one that is more traditional. Also Magen David earrings. I usually always wear these items as I run errands, and am out and about.
Lately though, as antisemitism increases, I sometimes catch myself thinking, what if I run into one of these real haters? I reply that if I don't standup, who will? So on goes the jewelry and away I go. That said, I've not had a negatice experience to date.
During those moments of hesitation, Niemoller's quote always comes to mind:
"First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a socialist.
Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a trade unionist.
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me
Niemoller paid quite a price, but also regretted that he might have spoken out sooner. I don't want it said that I didn't speak out, didn't represent who I am. In the US, the categories are not the same as Niemoller's, but there is a list that is being established. The El Al ad is an important call to be fearless. I know who I am and what I believe. I can't be myself by being silent, and I need not apologise for who I am.
After the Sunday may 18 Eurovision vote and the large show of support for Israel,I think that it might be possible that the polls are wrong and the propaganda attacks to diminish Israel are malicious. It’s possible .
Love, respect and humanity have flown out of the window 💔
Read this during a visit to Japan. Although I have a second passport, entered as an Israeli. At no time any issues. I don't show my Magen David, Chai and Israeli map pendants on my necklace, but after speaking with other tourists (Taiwan, Indonesia and local Japanese) feel more at ease. They are very pleased to meet me. I am sure it's vastly different in Europe ( where I have little desire to go). Yes, even after 50 years in Israel, even before I say a word, I am often approached in English!
As a US goy, I found this post interesting. Once I'd sorted myself during the antisemetic riots of 2024, I knew who I was in regard to Jews and Israel. So I purchased a Magen David that is alleged to be a piece of an Iron Dome rocket. I also have one that is more traditional. Also Magen David earrings. I usually always wear these items as I run errands, and am out and about.
Lately though, as antisemitism increases, I sometimes catch myself thinking, what if I run into one of these real haters? I reply that if I don't standup, who will? So on goes the jewelry and away I go. That said, I've not had a negatice experience to date.
During those moments of hesitation, Niemoller's quote always comes to mind:
"First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a socialist.
Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out—because I was not a trade unionist.
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out—because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me
Niemoller paid quite a price, but also regretted that he might have spoken out sooner. I don't want it said that I didn't speak out, didn't represent who I am. In the US, the categories are not the same as Niemoller's, but there is a list that is being established. The El Al ad is an important call to be fearless. I know who I am and what I believe. I can't be myself by being silent, and I need not apologise for who I am.
Respect
You are amazing, Rebekah. Thank you.
After the Sunday may 18 Eurovision vote and the large show of support for Israel,I think that it might be possible that the polls are wrong and the propaganda attacks to diminish Israel are malicious. It’s possible .