In this week’s episode of For the Love of Zion, we sit down with Representative Esther Panitch, the only Jewish legislator in Georgia’s House of Representatives. Esther shares her powerful journey as a public servant, advocate, and proud Zionist, delving into her work fighting antisemitism and fostering connections between the Jewish Diaspora and Israel.

This candid conversation covers her recent trip to Israel post-October 7, the challenges and triumphs of passing the IHRA (International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance) definition of antisemitism in Georgia, and her personal connection to Zionism. Esther also discusses her role as a candidate for the Jewish Future Slate in the World Zionist Congress elections and the importance of strengthening Jewish unity in turbulent times.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✅ Insights from Esther’s trip to Israel with a diverse group of legislators post-October 7.

✅ The personal and community impact of antisemitism in the U.S. and Israel.

✅ The significance of adopting the IHRA definition of antisemitism and its real-world impact.

✅ How Esther navigates rebuilding coalitions and educating others about Zionism.

✅ The importance of the World Zionist Congress and why it matters today.

Quotes to Remember:

💬 “We can’t take Israel for granted. It’s on all of us to ensure its survival and thriving.” – Esther Panitch

💬 “Antisemitism today is not just old stereotypes; it’s new narratives that pervert history and target Zionism.” – Esther Panitch

💬 “Zionism is about the right to Jewish self-determination in our indigenous homeland, nothing more, nothing less.” – Esther Panitch

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

📖 Learn more about the IHRA definition of antisemitism – Read Here

📖 CAM report on Antisemitism post October 7th – Read Here

📅 Register to vote in the World Zionist Congress elections – Sign Up Here

🌐 More about the Jewish Future Slate and its mission – Learn More

Call to Action:

If you enjoyed this episode:

1️⃣ Subscribe to For the Love of Zion on your favorite podcast platform.

2️⃣ Share this episode with your community to spark conversations about Zionism and combating antisemitism.

3️⃣ Leave us a review to help more listeners discover the podcast and join the movement.