On September 10, 2009 I had the opportunity to join with a delegation on a trip to Washington D.C. The National Jewish Leadership Advocacy Day on Iran brought together over 300 people representing Jewish organizations from across the country as well as friends of the community, such as myself. I had never had this kind of experience before, and was both excited and nervous to find out what was in store.
My nerves were soon calmed as we entered through the doors of a beautiful, historic synagogue near the Capitol. It was such an inspiring sight to see so many people gathered together with a common resolve to stand against a nuclear armed Iran.
Energy filled the synagogue as we listened to the words of our nation’s leadership. Representatives such as House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer and House Minority Leader, John Boehner were among a group of Congress members who came to speak on the threat of a nuclear Iran, and to show not only their support of our delegation, but also their resolve to take action against such a threat.
Those several hours in the synagogue were inspiring. For some time I have felt great alarm at the escalating danger posed by Iran’s quest for nuclear capability, highlighted by the regime’s radical eschatological ideology, threats hurled at our ally Israel as well as the U.S., and an abysmal track record of human rights abuses made ever more obvious during this summer’s election.
Up until that moment in the synagogue I had felt somewhat helpless concerning the situation and was waiting for an opportunity to act. But as I looked at the large gathering of people, I felt as if I was a part of something much bigger than I had expected. To hear from our nation’s leaders from both sides of the aisle and to come together as a group of people from different backgrounds, faiths, and ages on one of the most crucial moments during our modern times, revealed a powerful strength in unity.
This feeling continued as the delegation dispersed for our afternoon visits with Congress members in order to thank or to urge them to support The Iran Refined Petroleum Sanctions Act. To enter the Capitol building, to walk through the halls of Congress, and to sit with our representatives and discuss this legislation, was such an amazing privilege. It was reassuring to hear that our elected representatives also shared our concern, were in full support of our efforts, and were committed to legislative action. This was also a time for me to get to know the individuals within our small groups and gain a tremendous respect for each one of them.
I thank those who gave me the opportunity to join the delegation. Advocating for such a purpose was a great blessing in my life and far exceeded my expectations. As a Christian, my deep conviction and strong desire to stand with the Jewish community in support of Israel has always been imbedded within me. As an American, my resolve will not weaken to stand up against those who threaten our allies in the world and who also seek our country’s demise. The Bible reminds us in Deuteronomy 31:6 to “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” It is with this in mind that we continue to stand strong together.
Laura Cusack is a senior majoring in politics and government at North Park University. She is an intern with Reach Across Illinois Campuses, a program of the Jewish Community Relations Council.
Good Article. Enjoyed reading about your experience...Joanne and I spent four months working in Washington DC in 1976...See you in class.
Mel Soderstrom
Posted by: mel soderstrom | September 29, 2009 at 12:45 PM