Antisemitism on the Rise? Congressional Insiders Say Israel Holds the Key to Solving It 

In a critical time marked by geopolitical tensions and a rise in antisemitism, a special delegation of US Congressional staff, organized by the Israeli Consulate in Miami, recently embarked on an immersive visit to Israel.

This unique experience aimed to offer firsthand insights into Israeli society, government, and daily life, challenging preconceived notions and fostering a deeper understanding of the nation. Among the delegates were Glorianne Oliveros, a district director for Congressman Mario Diaz Bolard, and Jonah Albert, who works for Representative Jimmy Petronis from Florida’s first district.

Both shared profound reflections on their journey, highlighting a significant shift in perspective and a renewed commitment to advocating for Israel upon their return to the United States.

A Journey of Falling in Love with Israel

Glorianne Oliveros explained how her journey in Israel gave her a new perspective:

"I was invited by the council general of Israel in Miami to come here to Israel to visit and to learn about the community. I had the opportunity to learn about the government and the services that they provide their community".

Before her arrival, Oliveros noted that news reports about Israel often focused largelly about the war and how Israelis live under bombings and serious conditions. However, her experience on the ground painted a starkly different picture.

"When I got here, I felt in peace. I feel a lot of tranquility, something that I've never felt in my life before," Oliveros stated, adding her happiness at witnessing the community thriving, particularly in places like Shalva, which supports people with special needs.

She believes this kind of direct engagement can help her sharing with her peers back in the USA about how it really feels like to be in Israel. Oliveros believes her truth will enable her to "counter the antic reality perceived in some US states."

A Meaningful Comeback

Jonah Albert, who works for the Congress Representative Jimmy Petronis, joined the delegation with the Miami Israeli consulate, which works very closely to his congressman. Albert’s role in Congress involves assisting with legislative research and helping constituents, making his understanding of international affairs particularly pertinent.

He noted that this visit was especially unique for him, someone who has a deep conection to Israel.

"It's my first time being here since October 7th and the the war that's been going on for over 700 days".

Albert emphasized the profound significance of learning about the current state of affairs in Israel, stating it is

"especially meaningful to learn about the current state of affairs in Israel and certainly how us Americans, especially those working in Congress, can continue to support Israel and help facilitate the release of the the hostages and the the war".

Antisemitism in the USA

A central theme for both delegates was the pressing issue of antisemitism in the United States. Albert highlighted a disturbing rise in antisemitism, asserting,

"There's unfortunately a lot of anti-semitism going on in the United States, especially on the college campuses". He observed that many groups "don't really understand what goes on in Israel" and often perceive it as a "total war zone," leading many Americans to "chant against Israel without really knowing what they're saying".

Both Oliveros and Albert firmly believe that visits like theirs are crucial in combating this misinformation. Albert stressed the importance of Americans coming to Israel

"to see firsthand what Israel is like and teach people and educate them about all the amazing things that Israel has to offer and how beautiful and peaceful it is" to "end the hatred, the anti-semitism".

A Jewish Man in the US Congress

As a Jewish American working in Congress, Jonah Albert articulated a unique sense of responsibility. He described it as a

"very special honor to work in the United States Congress" and an "extra responsibility to teach the people that I work with and other people in the US Congress about my experience in Israel and how special it is to me," rooted in his faith.

Albert also noted a growing space for Jewish voices within Congress, confirming,

"there's actually several representatives and senators in Congress who are Jewish". He pointed to Congressman Randy Fine, a "brand new congressman" who "openly wears his kipah in the congress as a as a sign of support for all the Jewish students in the American universities who are facing anti-semitism".

Albert found this particularly significant, noting,

"it's the first time I think I've ever seen that... to see an actual member of Congress do that it really shows a lot of support and that we're changing the tide in how we can the narrative for everything about Israel".

Their experiences underscore the vital role of direct engagement and personal testimony in shaping informed perspectives and strengthening the partnership between the United States and Israel. By bringing back stories of peace, resilience, and a thriving community, these delegates aim to counter the often-misleading narratives and foster continued support for Israel in Washington and across the nation.