Each year, as we retell the story of the Jewish people’s exodus from Egypt, we think about seders of the past. Everyone has a role: who reads what part in the Haggadah, who sits quietly hoping they won’t be called on, who asks the four questions, who kicks their sister or brother under the table, who brings the soup or the special family dessert ... who just won’t stop talking ... we all have our roles and our questions.

I am writing this from Tel Aviv where I am with several members of the Greater Cleveland and Jewish Cleveland communities on Federation’s Humanitarian Mission for Business and Civic Leaders. We came to Israel together to see, hear, and begin to comprehend what happened on October 7, 2023, and what that means for Israel and the Jewish people.

Today, Shlomo Mantzur turns 86 years old – and it is the worst birthday of his life.

On Tuesday, February 13, the Senate passed a supplemental aid package that includes President Biden’s emergency funding request for Israel. This is a major win for the Jewish Community, and it was made possible by each and every one of you! Thank you for being a part of the push that got this aid one step closer to final passage.

Today is the 100th day since October 7. 100 days since terrorists viciously attacked Israel and murdered over 1,200 people and kidnapped 240 others. 100 days since everything changed.

Please contact your U.S. senators and member of Congress to demand they act to facilitate the safe release of the Israeli and foreign nationals held hostage by Hamas.

With each Chanukah candle that we light, we bring light to all who need it.

Please write and call your members of Congress to thank them for their support of Israel and to reiterate that Israel should not be asked to re-enter a ceasefire with Hamas until all of the hostages are released and the terror organization is no longer able to threaten the safety of innocent lives.

Every generation has its time. This is ours.

Please take a few moments right now to fill out this form and send a message to your House member and urge them to vote YES on this important bill.