Since the Hamas attacks on Israel, Hollywood celebrities and public figures have struggled to find a way to use their social media platforms to take a stand and show support in some way, shape or form without receiving criticisms.
Over 700 actors, comedians and musicians, including Gal Gadot, Jerry Seinfeld and Amy Schumer signed an open Creative Community for Peace’s letter denouncing Hamas’ “barbaric acts of terrorism” in Israel and calling for the return of hostages.
“Outlander” star Sam Heughan faced backlash after he supported a letter that condemned Israel for its attacks on Palestine. The actor said that he ‘inadvertently signed something’ that does not reflect his beliefs. Turns out, that same letter was signed by more than 2,000 actors, musicians and artists.
So, what’s the right thing to do? US citizens look to President Biden as he addressed the nation this week in support of Israel.
After Biden’s speech, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass released the following statement:
“The President made clear last night what we in Los Angeles have always made clear: we continue to stand unequivocally with Israel.
“The fear resulting from the deadly and vicious attacks by Hamas two weeks ago has rippled across Jewish communities around the world, including here in Los Angeles. We refuse to condone violence – which is why LAPD has increased patrols in neighborhoods throughout Los Angeles to ensure this hatred does not spill into our city.
“During this trying time we stand together. My thoughts are with those who mourn an absence that will never again be filled.”
In the wake of the attacks, Mayor Bass joined the Los Angeles Jewish community in solidarity at a community vigil organized by the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles and other Jewish community organizations at Stephen Wise Temple.
Last week, Mayor Bass met with Consul General of Israel to the Pacific Southwest Israel Bachar to convey the City of Los Angeles’ support for Israel.
In a Los Angeles Magazine interview published this week, the Consul General acknowledged action taken by the Mayor to keep the Jewish community in Los Angeles safe.
During her recent trip to Washington DC, the City delegation met with Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and discussed how the Department is responding when violence does occur, and how it is working to prevent targeted violence in the United States in wake of the Israel-Hamas conflict.
