Attending the 2025 American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) Congressional Summit in Washington, D.C., was a defining moment in our Jewish journey. Though we had heard of AIPAC before, we never truly grasped its influence on one’s Judaism until we attended an event on our own. Thanks to Rabbi Uri Pilichowski, we were given the incredible opportunity to attend, and we eagerly accepted.
From the moment we arrived, we were immersed in a world of political advocacy and unwavering support for Israel. The conference brought together over 2,000 attendees, including influential donors, AIPAC leaders, and political figures. It was inspiring to hear from AIPAC’s CEO and President, as well as senators and congressmen who emphasized bipartisan support for Israel. One of the highlights of the summit was lobbying with Congressmen Jared Moskowitz and Mike Lawler. Despite the differences in their political affiliations, both men are steadfast and united in their dedication to the State of Israel.
In addition to the lobbying, we student attendees had the privilege of speaking with leaders from the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, further deepening our understanding of Israel’s security challenges. Among the other unforgettable moments of this trip was the Congressional Dinner, where our group conversed directly with political figures such as Ted Cruz, Rick Scott, and Tom Cotton. Their passion for Israel was evident, reinforcing the importance of political engagement in securing Israel’s future.
Perhaps the most surreal experience was visiting the White House itself, where we met with the Director of Counterterrorism in the exclusive Secretary of War Office. Discussing global security threats and receiving a private tour of the West Wing and Oval Office was an experience we will never forget.
One deeply resonant message was emphasized repeatedly throughout the conference: regardless of political affiliation, geography, or level of religious observance, Jews share a responsibility to support Israel. AIPAC provides a platform to ensure Israel’s survival through advocacy and political engagement. This summit reaffirmed our commitment to being an active voice in supporting Israel both now and in the future!
