In an historic bipartisan move, the Tennessee Legislature last month agreed to create a Tennessee/Israel caucus designed to strengthen and further build upon their relationship. State representative Scott Cepicky (TN-District 64), one of the sponsors of the caucus bill welcomed the move and said the move was a big step forward for the state, “We will be able to do great things for the state of Tennessee and the people of Israel. This caucus will allow leaders more than 6,000 miles apart to strengthen political ties and promote economic growth through bilateral trade and investment opportunities that will help foster an environment of educational collaboration and cultural understanding.”
At a reception following the creation of the caucus in the senate chamber, Rabbi Saul Strosberg of Congregation Sherith Israel gave opening remarks. He reiterated President Ronald Reagan's remarks, emphasizing the United States' longstanding commitment to and friendship with the state of Israel. “The value of a connection between us and the people of Israel is even more essential today and we are grateful for the opportunities that the Tennessee-Israel Legislative Caucus will provide to strengthen and enhance this important relationship.”
Israel’s Consul General for the Southeast Region, Anat Sultan-Dadon was present, and, in her remarks, she said establishment of the caucus reflects the unique friendship between the two states and noted that the relationship has been cultivated over decades. “Israeli companies have collaborated with Tennessee business fostering innovation and technological advancements. In the academic realm our universities and research institutions have engaged in meaningful exchanges, sharing knowledge in fields ranging from medicine to agriculture.”
Sultan-Dadon said that Israel continues to face challenges as the war with Hamas continues. “Hamas’ brutal terror attack against Israel was a part of their declared goal of destroying the state of Israel. But it was not only an attack on Israel. It was an attack on humanity, on peace, and on the belief that people can live alongside one another in mutual respect.” She said that defending against extremists is an imperative not only for Israel but for the entire free world, including the United States. She closed by reminding attendees that currently 59 hostages remain in Gaza and there should be no rest until they are all returned home.
All four of Tennessee’s Jewish Federations were represented at the reception celebrating the new caucus. Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville president Aron Karabel delivered closing remarks and recognized all of the representatives from Tennessee’s Jewish communities: Michael Dzik, president and CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Chattanooga, Bryan Goldberg, immediate past president of the Knoxville Jewish Alliance, and Sarah First, community relations director from the Memphis Jewish Federation.
Karabel said he looks forward to the collaboration between the two communities in Nashville and Israel. “Tennessee is one of the very few states who have successfully established a bipartisan caucus with both the House and Senate chambers.” He said the initiative, defined by caucus chairs representative Scott Cepicky and representative Torrey Harris seeks to enhance the bonds of friendship and collaboration between the state of Tennessee and the state of Israel, and that the relationship is built on shared values, mutual respect, and commitment to innovation and progress. “This is in essence the definition of tikkun olam, actively working to improve the world by fostering connection and unity between people and community.”
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