House Republican Leadership Chairwoman Elise Stefanik delivered the commencement address at Yeshiva University. Stefanik is said to be considering a run for governor in New York.
As reported on her government website,Stefanik who has stood up repeatedly for The Jewish people received the presidential medallion for global leadership. Yeshiva University is well known as the main instituion of Centrist/Modern Orthodox Judaism in America.
Among the highlights of her commencement address include “Thank you very much to Rabbi Berman, whom I had the chance to hear deliver a beautiful and moving benediction at President Trump’s inauguration.” Rabbi Berman who himself is a graduate of Yeshiva University delivered The Jewish benediction at the presidential inauguration.
Stefanik peppered the address with Religious references, including the Counting of The Omer, which is 49 days. As Stefanik put it, “These 49 days of counting are a somber period of reflection, commemorating the 24,000 students of Rabbi Akiva who were killed.”
Stefanik went on to connect the tragedy of the murder of Rabbi Akiva’s students by the Romans to the modern-day tragedy of October 7th. “I have spent many hours with hostage parents and family members,” she declared.
She admired how, in her words, “you fought for and mourned Hersh Goldberg Polin, whose mother Rachel we are all humbled to be with today”.
The congresswoman then proceeded to discuss the violent anti-Jewish hate that still exists. “And in a world today where we have seen grave depravity and atrocities against the Jewish people, the world desperately needs to hear leaders with moral clarity.”
She also quoted the founders and their call for Religious freedom and a society free of anti Jewish persecution.
In reference to George Washington, Stefanik declared “Washington wrote to the Jewish Community of New Port Rhode Island in 1790 May The Children of The Stock of Abraham, who dwell in this land, continue to merit and enjoy the good will of the other inhabitants; while every one shall sit in safety under his own vine and fig tree and there shall be none to make him afraid.”
Positioning herself at the forefront in the fight against Jew hatred she contrasts herself with leftist politicians who only fight Jew hatred when politically convienient.
Unlike the left, Republican leadership from the president on down stand with all people of faith including the Jewish people in fighting violence and intimidation.
Stefanik finished by saying “May Hashem (G-d) bless the work of your hands. May He illuminate your path. And may he grant you the strength to be proud Jews and compassionate citizens in our great country.”
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