Jan 23, 2024

Miami Women Gather for Lion of Judah Event

“We are here today because we are hurting … because we need each other… because we are Jews … because we want to do something … because, together, we CAN do something.” These powerful words from Women’s Philanthropy Campaign Chair Amanda Adler were the reason more than 500 of Miami’s most generous Jewish women gathered this past Tuesday for the Lion of Judah Event. Chaired by Jill Schwartz, the event marked 109 days since Hamas’ brutal attack and focused on Federation’s vital ongoing response. 

Guests heard from an Israeli couple who recounted how they and their young children barely survived the terrorist attack in Kibbutz Nir Oz, where several relatives and friends were murdered. Despite their extreme trauma and grief, the Federation-funded assistance they have received while relocating to Miami, has “restored their faith in humanity.” Tali Levanon, CEO of Federation partner agency the Israel Trauma Coalition (ITC), joined via Zoom from Israel. She shared how the ITC is providing critical therapeutic support to a country suffering from significant trauma and depression. Both Women’s Philanthropy President Elise Udelson and Immediate Past President Tammy Woldenberg spoke about their experiences on a recent solidarity mission to Israel to bear witness to the aftermath of the atrocities. In addition, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava was recognized for her efforts to combat the alarming rise in antisemitism, both before and since the fateful day in Israel. The event also featured an interview with and performance by Tony- and Grammy-award-nominated Broadway actor Micaela Diamond. She spoke about her Jewish journey and her experiences starring in the Broadway revival of Parade opposite Ben Platt and wowed everyone with her incredible singing voice. 

Inspired by what they heard – including all that the Greater Miami Jewish Federation is doing to help Israelis face a new and unimaginable future – more than 30 women became a Lion of Judah during the event. This is in addition to the more than 750 Lions who make a donation of $5,000 or more to the Annual Federation/UJA Campaign, and the 18,000 of their peers worldwide who contribute to their local Federations.

To learn more about becoming a Lion of Judah, contact Ofi Osin-Cohen, Women’s Philanthropy Director at [email protected] or 786.866.8440. Click here to learn about the history of the Lion of Judah program.