LOCAL LIONS ROAR at the International Lion of Judah Conference

By Diane Rothstein Women’s Philanthropy Chair

This year’s International Lion of Judah Conference was one of the best yet. The programming, which included speakers that focused on current issues, such as the war in Ukraine, security, antisemitism, mental health, equity and inclusion, the Israeli government, the continuation of our Jewish Communities, and so much more. Seventeen of the most compassionate, strong, committed, engaged philanthropists from our Northeast Florida community gathered in Phoenix (along with 1,200 other Lions) to learn about what is happening Jewishly and to ensure our collective mission to secure our Jewish people and our Jewish communities wherever they are. As one of the presenters mentioned, “one woman makes a difference, 18,000 Lions change the world!”

During the large Plenary gatherings, we heard from Eric Fingerhut (President & CEO of Jewish Federations of North America), Katie Couric (award-winning journalist, author, and Lion of Judah), Gabby Giffords (former US Representative), Kathy Manning (Congresswoman from North Carolina),

Michael Masters (National Director & CEO, Secure Community Network), Deborah Lipstadt (historian, author, and US Special Envoy for Monitoring and Combating Antisemitism), Marlee Matlin (Academy Award winner, actor, producer, director, activist, and motivational speaker), and many other notable and influential Rabbis, business owners, community leaders, and innovators - all of whom work very hard and remain committed to finding solutions for the complicated issues that face all of us and our Jewish community both here and abroad. They were inspirational, interesting, and informative.

Every two years at the Lion of Judah Conference, women of valor are honored with the Kipnis-Wilson Friedland award for their commitment, vision, philanthropy, inspiration, and leadership. Northeast Florida’s very own Iris Kraemer was recognized at this year’s gathering, and we were so proud to honor her on what was the 50th Anniversary of the Lion of Judah. Iris is the quintessential leader and a proud platinum Lion of Judah. She leads quietly, with dignity and strength, with honor, and with a tremendous commitment to Jews and the Jewish community both locally and globally. She led us through the pandemic with grace, resolve, intellect, and strength. She has traveled the globe - Israel, Ukraine, Poland, Ethiopia, and elsewhere, representing Federation and overseeing our commitment to Jewish communities worldwide.

Iris effectively communicates her passion for Federation by her deeds and her actions. She is a great example for all of us and is a valued mentor to many. Todah Rabah Iris! Mazel Tov!

In 1972, when two dear friends, Norma Kipnis-Wilson z”l and Toby Friedland z”l, had a revolutionary idea for Jewish women to make a personal statement to demonstrate their values and commitment to

Jewish lives, they had no idea the impact they would make.

I left the conference feeling energized, engaged, and inspired. I am incredibly encouraged by the work that so many are doing to make our world better and to secure the present and future of our Jewish communities. Federation understands the challenges that we face and is working to move us forward. Federation can continue to do all of the above because of everyone who participates and donates, and I’m proud to be a part of it!

Lions of Judah proudly donate a minimum of $5,000 to the annual campaign. The gold Lion of Judah pin is an internationally recognized symbol of philanthropy, commitment, Jewish values, and sisterhood around the world.