The DNC: A Tale of Two Speeches

Once again, Rachel Goldberg gives a breathtaking, empathetic, eloquent and powerful speech to the American public.

In interviews to the Israeli press, she and husband Jon said they were not sure if they would be able to appear at the convention since the organizers were fearful of the reception they might receive because of Pro-Palestinian protestors. This is why, she explained, she broke down when received with great applause and then the crowd cheering, “Bring them home”.

The strongest moment in her speech was actually this – her collapsing at the podium in tears at the beautiful reception. Sometimes, we are most powerful when not speaking.

And, I admit, as an American Israeli, I was very moved by the reception. I am so heartbroken by the usual attacks, denials, or apathy to the trauma we have experienced on and since October 7^th. This warmed my heart. I thank you for that.

I am used to her stunning speeches – full of empathy for all. She quickly mentions that the hostages are of all faiths and many nationalities –  reminding the crowd that not only Israelis were the victims of these atrocities.

Her prose is always breathtaking. “The youngest hostage is a one year old red-headed baby boy. The oldest is an 86 year old mustachioed grandpa.” She reminds us of the 8 American citizens who are hostages. “One of them is our only son. His name is Hersh. He’s 23 years old and like vice-president Kamala Harris, he was born in Oakland, California.” It is impossible not to relate to Rachel, her struggles, her pain.

She continues with details about her beloved son –  his love for travel and music.  The maps of the world on his bedroom wall. The audience smiles with tears running down their cheeks.

Those in the audience later thanked Rachel for sharing the story of her son and what happened to him on October 7^th. Not everyone knows –  we can’t assume that others know our story, see the same social media and news.

“Anyone who is a parent, or has had a parent, can try to imagine the anguish and misery that Jon and I and all the hostage families are enduring.”

And, now, briefly, a bit about Kamala Harris’ speech following Rachel Goldberg.

Yes, she came out strong: “I will always stand up for Israel’s right to defend itself. And, I will always ensure Israel has the ability to defend itself. Because the people of Israel must never again face the horror that a terrorist organization called Hamas caused on October 7^th.” I appreciated the unequivocal condemnation and recognition of Hamas’ atrocities on October 7^th. No causality, just condemning pure evil.

And, then she had to go and turn it into the usual false equivalencies. “At the same time…” Now, I knew we were in trouble, “At the same time, what has happened in Gaza over the past 10 months is devastating. . . . so that the Palestinian people can realize their right to dignity, freedom and self-determination.”

While I have no problem with her mentioning the suffering of the Palestinian people, there was no mention of the responsibility of Hamas for that suffering.  No accountability, no responsibility for their part in their people’s plight. Therefore, inferring that Israel is solely responsible for the suffering. Hamas caused the Israeli suffering in the same way that Israel caused the Palestinian suffering, right? Can you say “reductionist?”

In this way, she appeals to both crowds –  the pro-Israel audience and the pro-Palestinian audience. She must have felt that need to be a politician and somehow pander to both sides.

If you notice, Jon Goldberg speaks to both audiences beautifully, without insulting the sensibilities of either side. He lauds the efforts of President Biden and Vice President Harris in attempting to bring all of the hostages home as well as “stop the despair in Gaza.” There, recognized, no equivalent, no blame.

As a presentation skills and media trainer, I use Rachel Golberg Polin’s speeches as a shining example of breathtaking content, engaging pacing in speaking and the ability to appeal to any audience.

I truly hope that her impassioned speeches are heard by all; to understand the need for these beautiful souls to come home to their families immediately. I also hope that she will very soon be able to spend more time with her family, including her beloved son, and less time on the circuit persuading the world of the obvious -that these people deserve to be released from their captivity.

As we say, here is Israel, “Wishing us only good news.”