Building a movement that stands for democratic values: American Jewish Alliance
In this episode of Deep Dive, Maria Friedman sits down with Danny Schwartz, co-founder of the American Jewish Alliance and Chicago Jewish Alliance, for a wide-ranging conversation about the growing movement of Americans from all backgrounds coming together to defend democratic values, fight antisemitism, and push back against misinformation and political extremism.
Danny shares his personal journey into grassroots activism following October 7th and explains why he believes local, community-based organizations are increasingly important in confronting rising antisemitism and political violence. The conversation also examines the challenges facing Jewish leadership and mainstream media in addressing radical Islam and the difficult balance between confronting extremist ideology and avoiding broad-brush stereotypes about Muslims.
The episode explores how organizations like the Rhode Island Coalition for Israel and Chicago Jewish Alliance are working on the ground in their communities, and how the American Jewish Alliance aims to strengthen grassroots organizations and build a broader national movement.
For Rhode Islanders, the conversation raises important questions about the values that underpin American democracy and whether those values are being adequately defended in an era of growing political division, unrest, hate, and misinformation.
Get involved with the Rhode Island Coalition for Israel: ricoalitionforisrael.org
Deep Dive with the Rhode Island Coalition for Israel (RICI) on The Ocean State Current is a bold exploration of the issues shaping Israel, America, Rhode Island, and the future of Western civilization. Hosted by Maria Friedman, Executive Director of RICI, the podcast brings clarity to complex topics so that our viewers have the knowledge and confidence to engage in informed discussions. RICI is a non-profit 501(c)3 with the mission to combat Jew-hatred, educate about Israel, and promote our shared Judeo-Christian or democratic values.
Each episode of Deep Dive examines current events, happenings, and cultural trends impacting Israel, America, and the pro-Israel community locally and globally (Jews, Christians, and everyone who cares about protecting democracy)!
Produced by The Current, Rhode Island’s fastest-growing all-digital news platform, Deep Dive expands the conversation beyond headlines. Rooted in Judeo-Christian values, the podcast showcases the grassroots partnership between Jews and Christians working together to combat Jew-hatred (antisemitism), confront the BDS movement, and protect America and Israel’s shared Western values through education and advocacy.
Maria leads candid discussions that challenge false narratives and provide historical, moral, and strategic context. From community voices to national thought leaders, the program amplifies perspectives often overlooked. Deep Dive delivers news and views designed to turn the tide in Rhode Island and beyond.
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