Will You Donate 5 Minutes to Help Israel?

There is a story about a world-famous musician, riding in a taxi in New York City, telling the driver about his career. The driver said to the musician, “I would give anything to be able to play a musical instrument like you.”

To which the musician replied, “would you be willing to give six hours a day?”

There are many versions of this story but the message is always the same.  Good intentions don’t achieve goals. Only hard work and constant effort will accomplish them.

In the aftermath of the massive National Rally for Israel last week, many have been asking: what’s next? What should we do now to help Israel? Certainly, we need to stay informed, and continue to donate to the many outstanding organizations that are doing such amazing work in Israel. What else can we do?

The answer is clear. We must do a better job of connecting regularly with our elected officials, and explaining that we are part of the pro-Israel community and we vote.  They both want and need to hear from us.

What else can we do?  We can take 5 minutes every day to help Israel.

I’ve been taking a few minutes almost every day to call and write to our elected officials. We need more people from within the congregation to do so as well.  I am asking you to get involved in this effort right now. 

Yes, right now.

In this message below, you will find names and phone numbers of Senator Cory Booker, Senator Robert Menendez, and Congressman Josh Gottheimer, as well as sample scripts to use when calling and writing to them.

I want you to understand how important and impactful your calls and emails are. They make a statement.  This is not for someone else to do. This is something you and all the members of your household must prioritize at this time. What is needed now is action. The action that only you can take.

 

Take 5 minutes to support Israel right now.

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1. Calling elected officials.

Make your pro-Israel voice heard by calling your elected officials to make clear you stand with our ally Israel against Hamas terrorism!

Sen. Cory Booker (NJ)

(202) 935-6825

Sen. Robert Menendez (NJ)

(202) 938-0245

Urge your Senator to stand with Israel and oppose a ceasefire with Hamas. Let them know that you're one of many pro-Israel Americans in their state.

Rep. Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5)

(202) 639-5259

Urge your Representative to stand with Israel and oppose a ceasefire with Hamas. Let them know that you're one of many pro-Israel Americans in their district.

 

Sample Script #1

Recommended Talking Points for All Elected Officials

  • On October 7th, Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel.
  • At least 1,200 Israelis have been murdered, including 40 babies. 236 people have been kidnapped. More than 9,000 rockets have been fired at Israeli civilians. 
  • We need the unwavering support of all elected officials in denouncing Hamas terror, ensuring Israel has the support it needs to defend itself, and calling for the release of all hostages.
  • The war has levied an excruciating toll for Israelis and Palestinians. However, a ceasefire would only allow for Hamas to plan additional terror – nor is a ceasefire the only way to guarantee that Palestinian civilians are protected and receive humanitarian aid. Hamas’ chokehold on Gaza must end.
  • At home, antisemitism is surging. Please stand with the Jewish community.
  • Thank you so much for your attention to these crucial issues

 

Sample Script #2

Hi, my name is [Your Name], and I live in [Your Address],

I'm a constituent of Senator Menendez/Booker/Congressman Josh Gottheimer

It’s been 45 days and 240 people are still held hostage by Hamas in Gaza. I’m reaching out to urge the Senator/Congressman to continue pressuring their colleagues, the Biden administration, and Secretary Blinken to demand the safe release of our loved ones held in Gaza.

 

2. Email elected officials.

 

This link will direct you to the American Jewish Committee website, which has made it simple and easy to email your elected officials. 

This link will direct you to the One Minute A Day website which is focusing attention on Israel’s hostages.  They also have made it simple and easy to email and call your elected officials. 

Please take a few minutes right now (yes - right now!) to make a call and to send a few emails.  It's simple, easy, important, and necessary.  Our actions and efforts will make a difference.

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