June 5, 2025 — In early May, Region 11 Coordinator Bernadette O’Connor and I had the honor of traveling to Israel and Jerusalem to engage in a powerful exchange on union leadership. Our goal was to deepen our understanding of what it means to be a union member in this part of the world—through learning, cultural exploration, and honest dialogue.  

From the moment we landed to our departure, our schedule was packed with opportunities to learn about the labor movement in Israel, the cultural and political context, and what union leadership looks like across borders. It was a full itinerary dedicated to growth, connection, and reflection.

As someone who isn’t Jewish and whose relationship with religion sometimes wavers, I came into this experience with an open mind and a strong heart—grounded in my unwavering commitment to unionism. This was not a vacation. It wasn’t a “union junket.” It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to grow as a leader and bring back new perspectives that will inform and strengthen our work at home.

A heartfelt thank you to UJA Federation New York and the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) for recognizing our union and the vital role labor plays in shaping the social and economic fabric of New York State. Their support and partnership made this journey possible—and meaningful. Thank you also to the universe and to PEF President Wayne Spence for making space for two strong African-American women and union leaders to take part in this extraordinary experience. 

Day 2: Leadership in Crisis, Strength in Unity 

Our day in Jerusalem began with an intense discussion led by Mr. Nadav Hodorov, a prominent Israeli economic journalist. His serious tone reflected the urgency of his message: Israel’s economy is buckling under the weight of war. Inflation is rising, community trust is eroding, and public sector workers—nurses, teachers, civil servants—are being denied wage increases.

We then visited the Knesset, Israel’s legislative body, where we met Dr. Mansour Abbas, head of the United Arab List (Ra’am). A trained dentist turned political bridge-builder, Dr. Abbas shared his concerns about the war’s impact on working people, particularly tradesmen and laborers. The unions here are under immense pressure to protect jobs amid halted infrastructure and stalled contracts.

Later, we visited the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. Standing in that sacred space, I realized Jesus wasn’t just a spiritual figure—he was an organizer. He gathered the poor, spoke truth to power, and led a justice-rooted movement. Like a union leader, his work was grounded in service, solidarity, and sacrifice. As we walked the Via Dolorosa, we were reminded that leadership in hard times demands empathy, conviction, and a willingness to walk through suffering with others.

That night, we shared stories about labor in Israel and looked ahead to more conversations with union leaders like Peter Lerner, Director General of the International Relations Division at the Histadrut. 

 Tel Aviv and Southern Israel: Grief and Resilience 

We traveled to Kibbutz Be’eri, where homes once full of life were reduced to ash by a terrorist attack. A survivor walked us through the wreckage. He spoke of losing his aunt—a moment that struck me deeply. I know what it is to lose someone close. Grief lingers. It breathes. 

From there, we visited the site of the Nova Music Festival—once a place of celebration, now a site of tragedy following the terrorist attacks of Oct. 7, 2023. Yet amidst horror, we heard of humanity: an Arab man saved Jewish youth, risking his own life. A reminder that even when the world divides us, love and courage still connect us. 

Later, the sound of bombs overwhelmed me. I stepped away, only to later connect with a fellow traveler over my own grief—the loss of my son, Nicky. When I said his name, she burst into tears. She knew him. She loved him. We were bonded by grief and memory, collapsing the space between us. 

We visited the ruins of a police station connected to the Swords of Iron War, where public servants—police officers, paramedics—fought and died defending their communities. These weren’t just uniforms; they were neighbors who died protecting their homes. 

This day taught us that in devastation, the best of humanity still rises. From strangers saving lives to shared stories of loss, we were reminded that even in brokenness, we are never alone.   

Dinner with Histadrut Leaders: Shared Purpose Across Borders 

That evening, I had the privilege of dining with Gil Bar-Tal and Peter Lerner of the Histadrut, alongside international union leaders. It was a night of insight, unity, and reflection on the future of public sector unions. Sitting next to Gil, I felt like I’d found a kindred spirit. We share a deep commitment to labor rights and a belief in the power of collective voice. 

A Day at Histadrut: Unity Under One Roof 

We began at the Histadrut headquarters, Israel’s powerful labor federation. Peter Lerner walked us through the halls, sharing how the building was evolving while remaining rooted in solidarity. The vision? All unions—under one roof. Imagine AFL-CIO, AFT, NYSCOPBA, CSEA, PEF, State Troopers—working as one. That kind of unity would shake any government.

We met Chairman Arnon Bar-David. His presence was commanding, his words unforgettable: “I used to turn tables. Now, I make sure I sit at them.” Leadership means forcing your way into the room and becoming the change.

Later, we toured a public water treatment plant run solely by unionized workers. No privatization. In a country where water is survival, public service is essential. 

We heard stories of teachers striking not for raises—but because they’re losing more by working. Signed contracts are being ignored. War shifts everything. But still, the fight continues.

Our conversations with Israeli and Arab workers revealed a common desire: a fair wage, job security, and the dignity of a union that fights for them. Across borders and beliefs, the needs are the same. 

Sea of Galilee, Golan Heights, and Syria: A Journey of Faith and Understanding 

On our final day, we journeyed to the Sea of Galilee, following the path of Jesus to the Mount of Beatitudes, where he gave the Sermon on the Mount. We visited Capernaum, Jesus’s hometown, and the Synagogue of St. Peter. The spiritual energy of this place moved me deeply.

We then traveled north to the Golan Heights along the Syrian border and visited Buq’Ata. There, we met courageous Druze women who welcomed us with warmth and stories during lunch. Their resilience in the face of conflict was inspiring.

Finally, we visited a soccer field where a Hezbollah rocket had killed 12 children and injured 42. A place once filled with laughter now echoes with memory and loss. 

Conclusion: Not About Sides, But Solidarity 

This journey was not about choosing sides. It was about understanding the complex human, social, and political intersections between the labor movements of Israel and the U.S.

We came not to judge, but to learn. 

And what I learned is this: War has no winners. 

But unions—unions remind us that even in darkness, there is light. That when we stand together, across borders, cultures, and faiths, we are stronger. That solidarity isn’t just a word—it’s a way forward. 

Because in the end, this wasn’t just a trip. 

It was a mission. 

And we will carry it home.

Download the new PEF App for the latest union news and resources on the go!