Bring Them Home

Over the past year Israel has been fighting a war to defend herself. This war did not just start with the horrific events of October 7th. Israel, Jerusalem, and the Jewish people have been for 1000’s of years victims of invasions, slavery, programs, and countless occupations.

The recording of history as we know it goes back to when the Jews were invaded by the Babylonians. This was before the Common era, BCE. This is also referred to before the Christian era. Jesus was Jewish and came from the area of Galilee.  It is thought that almost 1 million Jews descendants were in the city. There were 12 tribes that came to be counted. As time has passed the history of the Jewish people and Jerusalem has been distorted.

 Israel as we know it today was not on the map. The area was called Palestine. There was Egypt, Mesopotamia and two deserts. Herein lies the trick, there was no “Palestine”. The area was Hebrew and invaded by the Arabs. Arab nations include Egypt, Syria and areas of Africa. So the Jewish people's main home was and has remained Jerusalem. That was the birth of the first religion. History to some may seem boring but it really does matter, now more than ever.  

On Monday, we held a Day of Remembrance. The credit for the celebration goes to Vice Mayor Anabelle Lima-Taub. Since October 7th 2023, we have all united in solidarity with Israel and around the hostages. The Vice Mayor has her roots in Israel. Just like many Jews during World War II her mother went to Israel from Russia. She was born in Israel but raised here in Miami since she was a child.

At the event, she spoke so eloquently about Zionism. Recently, the word Zionist has become a troupe to hide antisemitism. The propaganda and misinformation about the Jewish people have become a battle cry for so many ill-informed and may I say brainwashed antisemites.

The Jewish people were scattered around the globe. They returned to their homeland. They have fought since the early 1900’s for their home and survival. Just like the first battle to regain back the Temple in Jerusalem 1000s of years ago. First, is the Suez War and then their War of Independence. Israel is the only democratic nation in Arabia and the Middle East. That is not the only thing that makes her strong. It is the resilience and strength of the Jewish people. I spoke about strength and the courage of our Jewish brothers and sisters and how they continue to fight the world’s war against terrorism.

As the Vice Mayor shared, we need to own and defend our Zionism. We are not simply strong but successful Zionist. Jewish people will continue to survive. Since the dawn of recorded time, we have. Jews have created a strong country out of desert. Not simply the blood of battle but from hard work, knowledge and the desire for peace and property for all.

This event was very special. Vice Mayor Lima Taub arranged to have art from 7–9-year-old that survived our Sister City Sderot massacre at the hand of barbaric Hamas. The artwork was a project of healing for the children that witnessed these atrocities.  We can see the pain and suffering and hope in many of the over 80 pieces. The exhibit will remain at our Cultural Center on display over the next few weeks including early voting.

I had the opportunity to recognize Senator Jason Pizzo with a proclamation. He has and remains a strong and vocal advocate for Israel, he visited the war-torn area. He has fiercely sponsored and   defended legislation in Tallahassee to support Israel and support sanctions against Arab nations that sponsor terrorism and established proxies in the Middle East.

As we continue to support Israel and their right to defend their county. We all need to understand this is not simply Israel’s war, it is a war against terrorism. All nations need to unite. Stand against antisemitism. Like in World War II it is not just about Jews. It is about everyone that is not with religious extremists. Let us pray for peace but never forget.

This weekend, Praise In The Park! Join us for an uplifting and joyous experience at OB Johnson Park on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at 2PM-9PM. Let us come together to celebrate and praise with live music, motivational speakers, and a sense of community. Don't pass up this opportunity to interact with others and experience the power of optimism. There will be a health fair, human resources, job opportunities, singing, DJ, food, spoken word, and dancers. Bring your friends and family for an afternoon of love and positive thoughts. We cannot wait to see you there!

As always, I am available anytime for your questions, concerns, and ideas to make our city a better place at phone/text 954-632-5700 or you can email me at jcooper@cohb.org. Please visit me on my Facebook page at Mayor Joy Cooper; Like, follow, and share. You can also subscribe to get the lates at www.mayorjoycooper.com