Floor SpeechCeremonial2026-05-20

RECOGNIZING RAMAT SHALOM BETH ISRAEL ON ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY

Foreign PolicyIsraelHousingCrime & JusticeLGBTQ+

Context

On 2026-05-20, Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-25) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING RAMAT SHALOM BETH ISRAEL ON ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY" in the House.

Full Text

RECOGNIZING RAMAT SHALOM BETH ISRAEL ON ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 86 (Wednesday, May 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 86 (Wednesday, May 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E474] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING RAMAT SHALOM BETH ISRAEL ON ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY ______ HON. DEBBIE WASSERMAN SCHULTZ of florida in the house of representatives Wednesday, May 20, 2026 Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Ramat Shalom Beth Israel (RSBI) on its 50th anniversary. Founded in Plantation, Florida in 1976 in what began as a small Jewish discussion group meeting in members' homes, Ramat Shalom, now known as Ramat Shalom Beth Israel, has evolved into a prominent and respected synagogue that provides a place of inclusivity and a sense of belonging. Under the leadership of Rabbi Andrew Jacobs, and his wife Rabbi Cheryl Jacobs, RSBI is an LGBTQ Safe Zone and weaves learning seamlessly into worship and holiday celebrations, deepening both understanding and spiritual experience. The members of RSBI take the responsibility of Tikkun Olam, or healing the world, to heart. Through Ramat Cares, they volunteer to feed the hungry, house the homeless, shelter abused animals, clean our beaches and bring smiles to children who have lost everything. They are a thoughtful and compassionate group who perform various good deeds throughout the community--from hand-knitting healing shawls, baby blankets, and bonnets to baking challahs and cooking chicken soup for those who need some healing. Rabbi Andrew's leadership extends well beyond the synagogue's walls. He is deeply involved in interfaith and community partnerships throughout South Florida, building relationships rooted in mutual respect, shared values, and civic responsibility. Rabbi Andrew has repeatedly stood alongside me and our interfaith community whenever and wherever we have gathered to speak out against the scourges of racism, bigotry, and antisemitism. As Ramat Shalom celebrates this Jubilee year, I join in celebrating their commitment to compassion, inclusivity, and lifelong Jewish learning. On behalf of my constituents, I congratulate the ``Rabbis Jacobs'' and am proud to call them my dear friends. Mazel Tov to the entire congregation of Ramat Shalom Beth Israel on 50 years of service and community leadership. May the next 50 years continue to be filled with the Jewish values of Tikkun Olam and L'dor V'dor, lighting the way for future generations. ____________________

View original source →

RECOGNIZING RAMAT SHALOM BETH ISRAEL ON ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 86 (Wednesday, May 20, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 86 (Wednesday, May 20, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E474] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING RAMAT SHALOM BETH ISRAEL ON ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY ______ HON. DEBBIE WASSERMAN SCHULTZ of florida in the house of representatives Wednesday, May 20, 2026 Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Ramat Shalom Beth Israel (RSBI) on its 50th anniversary. Founded in Plantation, Florida in 1976 in what began as a small Jewish discussion group meeting in members' homes, Ramat Shalom, now known as Ramat Shalom Beth Israel, has evolved into a prominent and respected synagogue that provides a place of inclusivity and a sense of belonging. Under the leadership of Rabbi Andrew Jacobs, and his wife Rabbi Cheryl Jacobs, RSBI is an LGBTQ Safe Zone and weaves learning seamlessly into worship and holiday celebrations, deepening both understanding and spiritual experience. The members of RSBI take the responsibility of Tikkun Olam, or healing the world, to heart. Through Ramat Cares, they volunteer to feed the hungry, house the homeless, shelter abused animals, clean our beaches and bring smiles to children who have lost everything. They are a thoughtful and compassionate group who perform various good deeds throughout the community--from hand-knitting healing shawls, baby blankets, and bonnets to baking challahs and cooking chicken soup for those who need some healing. Rabbi Andrew's leadership extends well beyond the synagogue's walls. He is deeply involved in interfaith and community partnerships throughout South Florida, building relationships rooted in mutual respect, shared values, and civic responsibility. Rabbi Andrew has repeatedly stood alongside me and our interfaith community whenever and wherever we have gathered to speak out against the scourges of racism, bigotry, and antisemitism. As Ramat Shalom celebrates this Jubilee year, I join in celebrating their commitment to compassion, inclusivity, and lifelong Jewish learning. On behalf of my constituents, I congratulate the ``Rabbis Jacobs'' and am proud to call them my dear friends. Mazel Tov to the entire congregation of Ramat Shalom Beth Israel on 50 years of service and community leadership. May the next 50 years continue to be filled with the Jewish values of Tikkun Olam and L'dor V'dor, lighting the way for future generations. ____________________