In a letter to the editor last week, Ari Gononsky raised a crucial question (“Why Aren’t There More Outdoor Gatherings” January 4, 2024). Why aren’t there more outdoor gatherings in support of Israel? And I couldn’t agree more. As the public opinion war intensifies, it becomes imperative for the pro-Israel community to take proactive measures to ensure unwavering support for the nation.
Gononsky’s assertion prompts us to reflect on our collective response to the challenges faced by Israel in the global arena. The ongoing conflict has seen Palestinians and supporters of terror taking to the streets, engaging in boycotts, and pressuring leaders to demand a ceasefire. In this climate, it is crucial for supporters of Israel to not only maintain their stance but also actively promote and defend it.
The letter emphasizes the need for a more proactive approach, asking what is being done to sway public opinion and ensure continued support from American leaders. While the majority of the country’s leaders currently back Israel in its self-defense efforts, there is a growing concern that external pressures might erode this support. We cannot be too confident: six million people made that mistake.
The call to action extends beyond expressing support on social media or within the community; it involves actively countering anti-Israel sentiments in public spaces. An article last week highlighted a notable incident where efforts were made to cancel a very anti-Israel program at Rutgers University. Although the event proceeded as planned, the sheer volume of emails sent to the university’s president, Dr. Jonathan Holloway, did not go unnoticed.
The episode at Rutgers underscores the impact of proactive engagement. Despite the event occurring, the community’s collective voice was heard, with over 12,000 emails expressing concerns about the program. This example serves as a testament to the potential influence that can be exerted when a united front takes action.
The letter challenges the community to consider what might have happened if the effort had been larger in scale. Could 50,000 emails have led to a different outcome? It’s a compelling question that underscores the power of collective action and highlights the need for a more significant and coordinated effort in advocating for Israel.
To be proactive, the community must take a multifaceted approach. This includes organizing outdoor gatherings, countering anti-Israel protests, leveraging social media, and actively engaging with leaders to ensure that they remain steadfast in their support for Israel. The call to action is clear: it is time to step up efforts and be proactive on a larger scale.
The example of the Rutgers incident demonstrates that concerted efforts can yield tangible results. It is now up to the community to build on this momentum, engage in proactive advocacy, and ensure that support for Israel remains unwavering in the public opinion arena.
Mark Rosenberg
Teaneck
