Dr Ben-Meir’s long and deep experience in the Middle East was much evident and enthusiastically received by a large turnout of Coalition members and friends this past weekend. Those who attended came from different political backgrounds, but all shared an interest in how continuing great challenges in the region might be addressed: who and what nations should be part of any talks, how to address non-negotiable issues, and what might be reasonable to ask for and expect? Many issues and questions, a worthwhile and enlightening morning was had by all.
With thanks to Coalition Speaker Series Chair Lois Schein for her continued and long-standing efforts, and Coalition funders for their generous support.
Presented by: Federation for Jewish Philanthropy (UJA Eastern Fairfield County) in collaboration with UJA Fairfield County
David Weisberg, CEO of the Federation for Jewish Philanthropy, facilitated a compelling community conversation with leaders of CONECT. The speakers acknowledged positive strides made in recent years, but also the long-standing issues of racism that remain in Connecticut’s criminal justice system, now unfortunately pitted against a COVID-19 backdrop. The program was significant for several reasons: it addressed specific ways the current system might be improved through policy, a different operating structure and less-practiced grass-roots efforts; it brought in on-the-ground speakers with a range of of background, experience and perspective, and finally different congregations and philanthropies are represented and actively involved. (www.weconect.org)
With thanks to CONECT, UJA for spearheading and supporting this important initiative, conversation and work…