11.24.2003

Israel supporters unite

By ASHLEY BARWIG

More than 500 Israel supporters from across the state covered Norman Field on Sunday afternoon to hear about 10 speakers, including U.S. Rep. Peter Deutsch, and representatives from UF student organizations.

The second pro-Israel rally, part of Israel Awareness Week, brought speakers who stressed unity, student activism and peace in the Mideast country.

Deutsch told students from Florida State University, the University of Central Florida and four other Florida colleges that opponents are trying literally to destroy Israel across college campuses. He said students’ involvement would be something to be proud of when peace is established in the country.

The relationship between Israel and the United States is special because the countries share a historical relationship and have parallel views of the human condition, he said. Just as the United States occupied Afghanistan out of necessity after Sept. 11, 2001, Israel occupies Palestine’s territories "not by choice, but by survival," he said.

Consulate General of Israel to Florida Miki Arbel praised students for being active but stressed they understand their reasons for supporting Israel. "When we count on the U.S., we count on you," he said to an audience holding signs that read, "We love Israel." He added that no matter who the president is, Israel would always seek closeness and friendship with the United States.

Gators for Israel President Eli Menaged said the rally was proof Israel’s voice was being heard and that those who don’t support Israel are not setting UF’s agenda. "No matter what your background is, no matter what your reasons are - if you stand with Israel, then I stand with you," Menaged said. He said support for Israel crosses party lines and religions, which was proven by speakers from Jewish and Christian faiths and representatives from both College Republicans and College Democrats.

Sheri Valera, chairwoman of the College Republicans of Florida, said the United States is committed to working toward peace in Israel and will continue to stand with Israel. "Regardless of your political background or persuasion, we must remember that our partnership with Israel transcends any political issue or debate," Valera said. "This friendship has been a foundation for peace throughout the world."

James Argento, a member of the UF College Democrats and Gators for Lieberman, urged extremists in both parties who are pro-Arab and anti-Israel to change their views or "get out." "We need to be united in our support for Israel," said Argento, who reiterated the need for peace in Israel because it is the only democratic nation in the Mideast.

Along with 30 other Pensacola residents, Hynda Rome woke up at 6 a.m. and rode a bus to the rally. She said she was frightened by "well-coordinated propaganda" of anti-Israel views. "You can be for your people and for your cause without being against something else," Rome said.

The rally also included tables with information from Gators for Israel and a fundraising organization for Israel’s emergency medical services, as well as an exhibition of large photographs displaying changes in Israel’s cities over the past 100 years.

UF student Daniel Hurwitz said he came to the rally because he felt a connection with Israel. "The rally is just a way for people to express themselves and celebrate the existence of Israel," said Hurwitz, a computer engineering junior.

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