SocialMiami - Lion of Judah Event 2024

Lion of Judah Event 2024

The Women's Philanthropy division of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation hosted the chapter's international society of women who make a minimum donation of $5,000 annually.

by Gala Guide Admin in Photo Galleries, SocialEyes

4 - Amy Portnoy, Stephanie Schwartz, Dara Horn and Federation General Campaign Chair Moj Khaghan Danial — Amy Portnoy, Stephanie Schwartz, Dara Horn and Federation General Campaign Chair Moj Khaghan Danial

“We are stronger because we stand together,” said Dr. Rebecca Karsenti in her welcoming remarks as the Event Chair of the Greater Miami Jewish Federation Women’s Philanthropy (WP) Lion of Judah luncheon. This message resonated deeply when WP Campaign Chair Amanda Adler courageously shared how the tragic, accidental death of her daughter upended her family’s life. She suddenly understood “that community is not something we invest in for someone else; it is for all of us, and you never know when you will need it. That is what Federation does every day.”

Featured speaker Dara Horn, author of People Love Dead Jews, passionately implored the audience to use their voices to speak out against the rise in antisemitism. WP President Elise Udelson presented the national biennial Kipnis Wilson/Friedland Award to Federation Chair of the Board Lily Serviansky in recognition of her leadership and dedication to helping the Jewish people. Indie pop band Distant Cousins and violinist Ada Pasternak performed a variety of musical selections.

Elise Udelson and Federation Chair of the Board Lily Serviansky

5 - Barbara Black Goldfarb, Adriana Halac and Dara Horn — Barbara Black Goldfarb, Adriana Halac and Dara Horn

Women’s Philanthropy General Campaign Chair Amanda Adler, Keynote Speaker Dara Horn, Women’s Philanthropy President Elise Udelson and Lion of Judah Event Chair Dr. Rebecca Karsenti

Inspired by what they heard — including Federation’s extensive work to help Jews all over the world — the event raised more than $2.5 million for the Annual Federation Campaign and 42 new Lions were welcomed to the sisterhood.

Created in 1972 for the Miami Women’s Division Campaign by Norma Kipnis Wilson and Toby Friedland, both of blessed memory, the Lion of Judah is now an international society of women who make a minimum donation of $5,000 annually. Today, 18,000 women worldwide (with more than 750 in Miami) proudly wear the gold Lion pin to signify their commitment. It is so much more than a piece of jewelry; it is recognized as an icon for women’s giving and serves as a powerful symbol of women’s philanthropy.