A video message from the president of The World Jewish Congress
As communities around the globe grapple with the health, economic and social impacts of the novel coronavirus, World Jewish Congress President Ronald S. Lauder issued a video message, assuring the more than 100 WJC-affiliated Jewish communities that the World Jewish Congress is here to support them.
Ronald S. Lauder
Noting that “the coronavirus has completely upset our daily lives in ways we never imagined possible,” and that “our lives have changed overnight,” Ambassador Lauder urged Jews around the world to focus on our shared heritage and values and to come together to support each other.
“We are one people,” he shared. “What makes the Jewish people strong, what has always sustained us, is our faith in God and our trust in each other. This situation, I believe, has unintentionally made that abundantly clear.
“The coronavirus does not distinguish between Orthodox and Conservative. It does not distinguish between Reform and secular Jews. All Jews, indeed, all of humanity, are the targets of this disease. That is why now, more than ever, we must discard any divisions in our community. This should be an unexpected opportunity for all of us to embrace each other as one people. Challenges can bring out the best in us, and that’s what we need now.”
Ambassador Lauder closed, “Stay safe, act prudently have courage, support those around you who may need help, and always remain optimistic. And remember, we will get through this all together.”
