Zioness Statement: Democratic Primary Victory of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez in NY-14
The Zioness Movement proudly fights for justice and equality for immigrants, refugees, women, people of color, LGBTQIA+ individuals and any other human being whose rights are denied or threatened because of their innate characteristics.
As Jews, we are committed to tikkun olam ("repairing the world”); as Zionists, we believe that all people are entitled to self-determination and the protection of their inalienable human rights.
We applaud Ms. Ocasio-Cortez on a brilliant campaign for NY’s 14th Congressional District nomination, and a progressive platform to advance immigration justice, racial equality, gender parity, gun control, criminal justice reform and mobilization against climate change.
We are concerned about Ms. Ocasio-Cortez's past statements regarding the tragic situation in Gaza. The terrorist organization Hamas has confirmed that 52 of the 60 casualties on the Gaza/Israel border were members of their organization.
We decry the cynical strategy employed by Hamas to put women and children in the line of fire, to exploit the compassion and empathy of all who witness the result.
While we grieve the loss of any life, we support Israel in its right--and in fact, its sovereign obligation--to protect its borders and its people.
Ms. Ocasio-Cortez earned the Democratic nomination with her commitment and dedication, and she has since displayed a willingness to engage and learn.
We would welcome the opportunity to speak about the ways in which our progressive values are inherently interwoven with our Jewish and Zionist ones.
We invite her to use Zioness and our national leaders and Board Members as a resource as she begins her journey as the nominee and the likely future Congresswoman from NY-14.
