Bergenfield—On June 28th, Miriam and Ezra Lightman hosted a NORPAC brunch event for Congresswoman Nita Lowey at their home. Lowey, who is currently serving her fourteenth term in Congress, also serves as both the ranking member of the House Appropriations Committee as well as the ranking member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Foreign Operations. In these positions, Rep. Lowey has power over how much money is given to countries in the form of foreign aid. Currently, the US gives Israel $3.1 billion annually, and Rep. Lowey expressed her hope to raise this number in coming years.

During the event, Rep. Lowey focused on the importance of a strong US-Israel relationship. She asserted her belief that, in order for there to be peace, the US must stand firmly behind Israel. Rep. Lowey has played a central role in ensuring that the relationship between the White House and the Israeli government stays focused on common interests.

When asked about what Congress is doing to combat rising global anti-Semitism, Rep. Lowey reiterated her own, as well as Congress’, staunch opposition to the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement. In addition, Rep. Lowey has been a key player in the formation of a caucus of over sixty members, including ambassadors from Germany, Great Britain, and France, focused on monitoring and fighting anti-Semitism. She emphasized the importance of parliamentarians, across Europe and the world, working together on this issue.