Israel Advocacy Days in Tallahassee marked a meaningful and productive moment for the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County, as Federation leaders and community advocates advanced a focused public affairs agenda, represented in Tallahassee by Brandey Edelson, Vice President of Public Affairs for the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County.
Brandey Edelson, VP Public Affairs
Meeting with Rep. Peggy Gossett-Seidman
Representing the Federation in meetings with state leaders, Brandey helped ensure that our community’s priorities and concerns were clearly communicated across a full slate of legislative conversations. The delegation met with trusted legislative allies, including Senator Tina Polsky, Representative Peggy Gossett-Seidman, and Representative Kelly Skidmore, for in-depth discussions on the legislative agenda and the needs of Jewish communities throughout the state.
At the legislative breakfast and briefing, participants heard directly from Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, Senator Shevrin Jones, and State Representatives Yvette Benarroch, Jennifer Canady, Hillary Cassel, Michael Gottlieb, Mitch Rosenwald, and Debra Tendrich. These conversations provided valuable insight into the legislative process, current policy priorities, and Florida’s role in supporting Israel and combating antisemitism.
In the House Chamber, the delegation was formally welcomed by Speaker-Designate Sam Garrison, a meaningful moment reflecting the strong standing of the Jewish community in the Florida Capitol.
Israel Advocacy Days also created space to strengthen relationships beyond formal meetings. At a legislative reception featuring Israeli food and interactive exhibits, participants connected with lawmakers and staff in a more personal setting while celebrating Israeli culture.
That evening carried special significance. With the breaking news of Ran Gvili’s return, members of the delegation removed the yellow ribbons from their lapels together in a shared moment of reflection and closure.
Lara Burns, Head of Terrorism Research at George Washington University
The educational programming further strengthened the experience. Keynote speaker Lara Burns, former FBI agent and Head of Terrorism Research at George Washington University, delivered a briefing on terrorism networks and financing in the United States. A panel hosted by the Florida-Israel Business Accelerator highlighted how Israeli innovation is helping drive economic growth and address critical challenges across Florida.
Holocaust Survivor, Dr. Jack Saltiel
Florida Capitol Illuminated in Yellow
One of the most powerful moments of the trip was the Holocaust Remembrance program featuring survivor Dr. Jack Saltiel, whose testimony underscored the importance of memory, vigilance, and advocacy. That evening, the Florida Capitol was illuminated in yellow as a symbol of remembrance and solidarity.
Israel Advocacy Days reaffirmed the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County’s commitment to principled, relationship-driven public affairs work. Through Brandey Edelson’s representation in Tallahassee and in close coordination with our partners across the state, Federation continues to ensure that our community’s priorities, Israel’s story, and our shared values are heard where decisions are made.
Introducing: The Weekly Brief
This feature is part of the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County’s Weekly Brief—a recurring social series spotlighting the moments, leaders, and impact shaping Jewish Boca and our global Jewish community. Explore more stories on our social media.
