After receiving the “Ambassador of Light” award at the Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson Center’s inaugural dinner, President of Argentina Javier Milei gave an emotional speech, sharing moments in his life that cemented his deep ties to the Jewish community.
By Anash.org reporter
President Javier Milei attended the inaugural dinner of the Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson Social Center, held by Rabbi Sholom Lipskar, shliach in Florida and founder of The Shul in Bal Harbor. At the event, he was awarded the “Ambassador of Light” award, he gave a moving speech to the thousands in attendance.
Milei came to the event with his sister Karina Milei, and were both honored for their unwavering support for Israel. Rabbi Lipskar hailed Milei as a beacon of light in troubled times before presenting him and his sister with the “Ambassador of Light” awards.
Rabbi Tzvi Grunblatt, Shliach of Argentina accompanied Milei on the flight to Miami and joined the event as well.
“I’m proud as an Argentinean about this recognition to our president and the secretary general of the presidency, for his faith, his spiritual values, for his belief in the spiritual mission of life,” Grunblatt told the Jewish Telegraphic Agency. “There are a lot of people with that attitude but he not only is a man of faith but also speaks publicly about this.”
Milei then took the podium and shared personal anecdotes that underscored his deep connection to Yiddishkeit. He recounted childhood memories, paying homage to his maternal grandfather and reflecting on the powerful moments that led to his embrace of the Jewish faith.
“My grandfather was truly a great influence. … I used to learn from him and learned a lot,” Milei said, speaking in Spanish with a simultaneous translation. “The most interesting thing is that, shortly before he passed away he discovered that he was Jewish. He didn’t know but someone told him, ‘Your mother was Jewish, so you are Jewish.’ So all the values that I received from him came from Judaism.”
Drawing parallels between his personal journey and political convictions, Milei highlighted the importance of emunah and Hashem’s guidance in navigating challenges. He brought in the story of Chanukah and showed how the Maccabbees won even though they were the minority because they had Hashem’s help. He used the example to show on his success in Argentina’s political system that is filled with corruption.
As the evening drew to a close, Milei’s unwavering support for Israel was further demonstrated as he embraced Louis Har, who was held hostage and escaped from Hamas. The event served as a testament to Milei’s enduring commitment to the Jewish community and his vision for a brighter future.
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