"We want an Israel that celebrates diversity, where tolerance is not a weakness it’s a strength. We want an Israel that teaches its poor with compassion. We want an Israel that treats minorities with respect. We will not stay silent to racist rants. We want an Israel that treats every citizen as equal regardless of their origin, religion, of financial status. We want an Israel where public officials are held accountable and where public money is distributed with transparency. And above all we want an Israel that does not control millions of Palestinians. We want an Israel that is constantly working for peace."
Meet
Stav Shaffir, the youngest female member of the
Knesset legislative branch, in the history of Israel. The 29-year old breathes hope for many, with her words of peace, justice, and solidarity. Shaffir is a fierce advocate for government transparency, women's rights, equal marriage, peace with Iran, and the end of
Gaza occupation - a sort of Liberal dream come true. And she has no problems calling out the Right, calling out corruption, and calling out Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, as shown in a
YouTube video that went viral last January.
In March of 2015, Shaffir spoke at the 5th National J Street Conference in Washington DC, and her presence was said to be one of the highlights of this year's forum. To the dismay of many attending the conference, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had just been reelected and spirits were low. But Shav Shaffir was not there to commiserate. She began her speech with strength and encouragement.
“Since I arrived in the United States I have heard frustration I haven’t heard in the past, beyond frustration — almost despair,” said Shaffir. “But despair, this we cannot afford.”
Here is the video of Stav Shaffir's 17-minute speech at the 2015 J Street Conference. She is introduced by Molly Freeman who gives background on Shaffir for a few minutes.
The 2015 J Street speech above was the first time I heard Stav Shaffer speak, and I was mesmerized. She has that 'gift' I see so seldom, and so often cannot forget. Some liken her to Elizabeth Warren and the two met on Capitol Hill, following the conference. Bound for greatness, she beams with integrity, and Israel is fortunate to have her. The world is fortunate to have her, and we can only wonder what amazing things Shaffir will accomplish during her lifetime. I join others in hoping one of those accomplishments will include a reign as Israel's Prime Minister. The world is ready for more leaders like this.
Read more about Stav Shaffir:
Wikipeida
Haaretz.com
Special thanks to Benjamin F, and The
Sisterood/Forward.com.
Image by
Americans Against Republican Wars.
NOTE: The J Street YouTube video is cued to Shaffir's speech. You can rewind/fast-forward to view other
J Street Conference speakers.