Maria Friedman sits down with Rabbi Jonathan Hausman, one of America’s most outspoken advocates for free speech and a passionate supporter of Israel.
Rabbi Hausman shares his family’s history of discrimination in Europe, explains why his commitment to Israel is so deeply personal, and discusses the growing threat of antisemitism, attacks on free speech, and the politicization of education.
A powerful conversation about faith, Israel, free speech, and standing firm when doing so comes with a cost.
About the guest, “Rabbi J”
Born in Bridgeport, CT, Rabbi Jonathan Hausman currently serves as lead
rabbi at Ahavath Torah Congregation in Stoughton, MA.
“Rabbi J,” as he is informally known, is a second-generation American who
serves as a staunch advocate for freedom of speech and actively promotes
a Jewish-Evangelical dialogue. His synagogue even hosts Faith4Life-
Boston, an Evangelical church affiliated with Word of Faith International
Christian Center, in a unique collaborative program.
Rabbi J is also a polyglot. Fluent in English, Hebrew and Arabic, he spent
several years living in Egypt where he witnessed first-hand the atrocities of
the Muslim Brotherhood and the persecution of the Coptic Christian
community. With his wealth of knowledge, Rabbi J is a frequently published
contributor to such publications as The New English Review. Many of and his speaking presentations are easily searchable
on YouTube.
In memory of his parents, Rabbi J established the Irwin M. and H. Ethel
Hausman Memorial Free Speech Forum featuring speakers of national and
international significance. Quite often, he will put his position as a rabbi on
the line when getting involved and advocating for the First Amendment and
in providing a platform to speakers who are, at times, not “popular” in the
mainstream.
Due to his expertise in comparative theology and doctrine, Rabbi J has also
been called on to assist legislative battles across several states regarding
laws to protect fundamental Constitutional rights. As a result, Rabbi J was awarded ACT’s
prestigious Legislator of the Year Award in 2016 for his work on ALAC issues. He has spoken before numerous ACT Chapters
and has led several marches and events to highlight the indiscriminate
attacks on the Middle East’s indigenous Christian communities.
Rabbi J is also cofounder of Faith Leaders for America, an interfaith group
of clergies focused on national security issues and defending the Judeo-
Christian moorings of Western civilization. He is also co-founder of Saving
the Persecuted Christians, a coalition of individuals and organizations
dedicated to assisting these beleaguered Christian communities.
It goes without saying that, above all, Rabbi J is a passionate and
unapologetic supporter of the State of Israel and has many family members
residing in the Jewish State.
Rabbi Hausman received his BA in Religion and Judaic Studies and an MA
in Middle East and Jewish Studies from The George Washington University
in Washington DC and received his JD from Emory University School of
Law in Atlanta, GA. He received his rabbinic ordination from the Tifereth
Israel Rabbinical Yeshiva in New York.
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.
Support local and honest journalism by becoming a charter member of the Ocean State Current.
As our liberties are under constant attack – and the dishonest corporate media fails to hold public officials accountable – The Ocean State Current has become the choice of parents and citizens who value honest and fearless reporting. Why? Because we provide in depth discussion of stories that other news organizations refuse to even cover.
For just $3.99 per month, or only $39.99 for a pre-paid full year, as Cruise Member you will support journalism you can trust… on issues that are important to you and your family.
