WASHINGTON, D.C. – The World Jewish Congress, together with
the Inter-American Development Bank Group, brought together diplomats and
government officials on Wednesday evening for a celebration of Purim,
highlighting the importance of dialogue, partnership, and shared democratic
values among nations.
Purim commemorates the biblical story of Queen Esther, whose
courage and quiet diplomacy helped save the Jewish people from persecution in
ancient Persia. The holiday serves as a reminder that leadership, unity, and
principled action — even when exercised behind the scenes — can shape the
course of history. In that spirit, the gathering offered an opportunity for
leaders and diplomats to reflect on the power of cooperation and the enduring
importance of building alliances in challenging times.
WJC’s Governing Board Chair, Mrs. Chella Safra, delivered
opening remarks, which can be read below:
It is truly an
honor to be here with you today in Washington, D.C. Allow me to warmly thank
the Inter-American Development Bank for hosting this gathering, and especially
President Ilan Goldfajn for his leadership and vision in bringing us together
at such a pivotal moment.
Your presence here — representing the richness,
diversity, and democratic aspirations of Latin America — gives this occasion
special meaning. It sends a clear message that dialogue matters, that
partnership matters, and that principled and sustained engagement here in
Washington is essential.
For over ninety years, the World Jewish Congress has
served as the diplomatic voice of the Jewish people. Today, it continues that
mission under the leadership of Ambassador Ronald Lauder. We unite voices in
over one hundred countries. We engage governments, academic institutions, and
civil society at the highest levels. But beyond advocacy, our mission is simple
and profound:
To ensure that Jews everywhere can live openly, securely,
and with dignity — never isolated, never alone.
Today’s gathering coincides with the holiday of Purim, a
moment in Jewish history that speaks, above all, to courage, unity, and that
responsible leadership—even behind the scenes—can alter the course of events.
Purim also teaches us something very relevant to
diplomacy. That voices matter, alliances matter, and a shared purpose
strengthens our collective impact.
We are living through a period of significant
transformation — Not only for Israel and the Jewish people, but for countless
societies navigating uncertainty and polarization. As a woman, mother, and
grandmother, and someone who carries the memory of generations – knowing both
fear and resilience – this moment weighs heavily on me.
In such a moment, dialogue is not symbolic. It is
strategic.
As Chair of the World Jewish Congress Governing Board, I
see today not simply as a meeting—but as a step towards deepening cooperation
between our communities and your nations, grounded in mutual respect, shared
democratic values, and a commitment to stability and prosperity.
I look forward to building on this conversation in the
months ahead.
Thank you for your presence, your openness, and your
partnership.
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