One year ago, the world watched in horror as Hamas terrorists invaded Israel slaughtering as many Jews as they could find. Jarad Bernstein of the Jewish Federation of Greater Des Moines joined us one year ago with hope the international community would fully support Israel and the Jewish people. What happened instead is tragic: the international community turned its back on Israel and the Jewish people, as did people in our own country. Our Iowa leaders have something to say about that.
Bernstein gave remarks at an Evening of Community and Unity alongside Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds, and other lawmakers, fully supporting Israel, and the Jewish community of Iowa. Bernstein explains his surprise at the United Nations support of terrorists over Israel and discusses sadness over hostages still being held by Hamas. We discuss how Iran and Hezbollah have turned up the pressure, joining Hamas, and what it will take to end this conflict.
Iowa stories for your inbox
Justin, David, & Kaylee cover Iowa news, agriculture, business and tech. No clickbait. No rage. No agenda. Support our vision and subscribe!
Iowa’s Support and Political Advocacy for the Jewish Community
In the wake of the attack, the Iowa community has shown solidarity with Israel through various initiatives. Bernstein highlights that Senator Joni Ernst has been a vocal advocate for the Jewish community, pushing for hostage returns and holding international actors accountable. He applauds Ernst’s efforts, noting, “We, as Iowans, are fortunate to have someone who is representing our state and representing those American values.”
Bernstein also explains how the Jewish community in Des Moines has stayed connected with those directly affected in Israel. The partnership between Iowa and Israel’s Western Galilee region has been instrumental in providing moral and logistical support. “We are in touch with those people constantly—text messages, Zoom meetings… they are very resilient in putting up with things that you would never hope any human has to put up with,” he says.
Rising Antisemitism and the Battle for Truth
A concerning part of the discussion revolves around the rise in antisemitism within the United States and on college campuses. Bernstein reveals that there have been over 10,000 incidents reported in the past year, with 1,200 of those occurring on college campuses. “It’s about Jew hatred,” Bernstein states bluntly, stressing that the issue goes beyond geopolitical disagreements and reflects deeper societal prejudices.
He calls for Iowans to stay informed and support the community through awareness and education. “In some ways [it’s] a battle of evil versus good,” he adds, urging people to stand against the infiltration of extremist ideologies in democratic societies. Bernstein also advises listeners to consult reliable sources like Times of Israel and Axios for accurate information, highlighting the importance of staying up-to-date on current events.
How Iowans Can Make a Difference
Bernstein concludes the conversation by encouraging Iowans to take an active role in supporting the Jewish community. From donating to local Jewish organizations to simply engaging in informed discussions, he believes that small actions can have a meaningful impact. “Israel is fighting for democratic values,” he reminds the audience. “America’s battle against Iran and [its] proxies is the Western world’s battle as well.”
In these difficult times, it’s clear that the Jewish Federation of Greater Des Moines, under Bernstein’s leadership, is committed to fostering understanding and unity both within and beyond Iowa’s borders.