Original Source: crownheights.info
In a heartfelt event hosted in Brooklyn on November 11, leaders from the German and American Jewish communities gathered to honor Cornelia Seibeld, the president of the Berlin State Assembly. With gratitude, they recognized her unwavering support for Jewish life in both Germany and Israel. Seibeld’s visit symbolizes a continuing commitment to the Jewish community, which includes her recent gestures of solidarity, such as illuminating the Brandenburg Gate in support of Israel on significant dates after the events of October 7, 2023.
At Chabad’s Rohr Jewish Learning Institute, community leaders exchanged thoughts with Seibeld and the presidium of the Berlin State Assembly. Notable attendees included representatives from prominent Jewish organizations like Chabad, the American Jewish Committee, and the Anti-Defamation League. The discussions focused on enhancing Jewish life and combating rampant antisemitism that has re-emerged since the tragic events in October.
Rabbi Efraim Mintz expressed his gratitude towards the attendees for their presence, setting the stage for Rabbi Yehuda Tiechtel’s passionate speech. Tiechtel emphasized the importance of a resilient Jewish community in the face of adversity, recalling teachings from Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, which inspire courage and proactive responses to challenges.
Among the inspiring speakers was Rabbi Nissen Mangel, a 91-year-old Auschwitz survivor, who shared moving reflections on Germany’s journey from its dark past to its current support of the Jewish community. He voiced hope for continued strengthening of ties and mutual respect in the future, underscoring the significance of Seibeld’s advocacy.
As the formalities concluded, attendees moved to the Chabad-Lubavitch headquarters, where a moment of silence and prayer in the Rebbe’s study became a deeply moving experience. The emotional weight of this gathering left an indelible mark on all, cultivating a shared spirit of resilience and unity that transcended borders and generations.
The evening rounded off with an intimate dinner, but the essence of the gathering lingered in the hearts of those present, conveying a special resonance in their dialogues in the days that followed the event. Soon after, several members from the Berlin presidium expressed that this gathering was one of the highlights of their visit.
The gathering exemplifies the strengthening relationship between Jewish communities across nations. Cornelia Seibeld’s commitment to advocating for Jewish life showcases a modern Germany that recognizes its past while fostering a future of positive engagement. The discussions held during this event illustrate shared values of combating antisemitism and promoting vibrant Jewish identities, emphasizing the ongoing evolution of relationships within the Jewish diaspora.
The gathering in Brooklyn to honor Cornelia Seibeld marked a significant moment of solidarity and reflection among Jewish communities from Germany and the United States. Through heartfelt discussions and powerful testimonials, this event underscored the importance of resilience in the face of adversity and the hope for a flourishing Jewish life. The impact of this meeting will resonate for a long time, reinforcing the bonds between distant communities united by shared values and historical experiences.
