Keynote Speaker
Congressman Ritchie Torres
Representing NY-15, Rep. Torres has emerged as one of the most outspoken advocates for the U.S.-Israel relationship in Congress. His unwavering moral clarity and courageous leadership have made him a powerful ally in the fight against antisemitism and a steadfast supporter of the Jewish community.
Keynote Speaker
Congressman Ritchie Torres
Representing NY-15, Rep. Torres has emerged as one of the most outspoken advocates for the U.S.-Israel relationship in Congress. His unwavering moral clarity and courageous leadership have made him a powerful ally in the fight against antisemitism and a steadfast supporter of the Jewish community.
In Concert With
Idan Raichel
Idan Raichel – producer, keyboardist, lyricist, composer and performer. During a career spanning a mere 17 years, Idan has become not only one of the most successful artists in Israel. Over the years, Idan has become an ambassador representing a world of hope in which artistic collaboration breaks down barriers between people of different backgrounds and beliefs.
Featuring
Elon
Gold
Emcee & Comedian -
About:
Elon Gold
Elon Gold is a comedian, actor, and writer, who’s one hour Netflix stand-up special, “Elon Gold: Chosen & Taken” received wide acclaim from audiences and peers alike and is currently streaming on Amazon Prime. He has made ten appearances on the “Tonight Show” and recently performed on “The Late Late Show with James Corden.” His routines have gone viral and are shared by millions around the globe.
He has starred in FOX’s “Stacked” and developed and starred in the NBC series, “In-Laws.” Prior guest star credits include “Crashing,” “Frasier,” “Chappelle’s Show,” and “Chelsea Lately” among others. He was also a writer/performer on ABC’s “The Dana Carvey Show.” Most recently, Elon can be seen in a recurring role on Season 11 of HBO’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm” and will be in the upcoming Kal Penn feature, “Trust Me, I’m A Doctor.”
Elon has a new 30 minute stand-up special, “Sets in the City: Elon Gold’s Favorite People” available on Youtube and is on a theater tour readying his next comedy special.
Oz
Davidian
Honoree - Rescued 120 young adults from Nova massacre
About:
Oz Davidian
Oz Davidian became an unlikely hero when he braved the Hamas attack on the Nova Festival, armed with only a handgun, to make 15 daring rescues and save 120 lives. One year later, the 50-year-old farmer and lawyer confronts the emotional scars of the day he became an accidental hero. He retraces his harrowing journey, revisiting the exact locations where he confronted terrorists, still haunted by the faces of those he couldn’t reach. Through intimate interviews and dashcam footage, the film explores the impact of trauma and the profound connection forged between Davidian and those whose lives he saved.
Aayush
Keshari
Student Honoree - Emerson Fellow on Campus
About:
Aayush Keshari
Aayush Keshari is a Hindu student leader at the University of Cincinnati who has been a visible and courageous ally of the Jewish community on his campus, especially in the wake of October 7. As a StandWithUs Emerson Fellow, Aayush spearheaded programs that reached hundreds of students, tackling important topics such as the October 7 attacks and the innocent hostages in Gaza, the Holocaust and rising antisemitism, the morality of the IDF, Middle East geopolitics, and Israel’s history and significance to the Jewish people. Through bold public displays, interactive exhibits, and dialogue-driven events, he not only educated his peers but also created spaces where Jewish students felt seen, supported, and safe. Aayush’s leadership helped build bridges between Jewish and non-Jewish communities, counter misinformation with empathy and clarity, and shift perceptions of Israel across his campus.
Despite facing personal backlash, Aayush has remained unwavering in his commitment to standing with Israel and the Jewish community. His example demonstrates how one student’s courage can influence an entire campus and reminds us that in this moment, we have tremendous friends and allies standing with us.
Sadie
Gryczman
Student Honoree - Kenneth Leventhal High School Intern
About:
Sadie Gryczman
Sadie Gryczman is a senior at Santa Monica High School, where she currently serves as Student Body President. A committed leader and activist, Sadie has worked to strengthen community and promote cultural understanding on campus. In the wake of rising Antisemitism, Sadie convened campus-wide discussions, including bringing a Holocaust Survivor to share their story with approximately 1,000 students and community members. Sadie was also instrumental in facilitating the visit of busloads of high school students to the Nova Music Festival Exhibit in the wake of Hamas’ October 7th terrorist attack in Israel.
Beyond school, she is a passionate advocate for tolerance and understanding. A Julie Beren Platt Teen Innovation Grant recipient at Jewish Federation Los Angeles and a StandWithUs Kenneth Leventhal Intern of the Year, Sadie was the youngest speaker at the 2024 National Mayor’s Summit on Antisemitism, where she represented K-12 Jewish students across the country. Sadie is the co-author of Brighter Together, a children’s book that uses empathy and storytelling to foster connections between Jewish and Muslim students; a project now being shared in classrooms to inspire dialogue and co-existence.
Beyond advocacy, Sadie volunteers as a Teen Advisor with the Teen Talk App, providing guidance and support to teens in crisis. She also plays a leadership role with United in Harmony, where she mentors youth experiencing poverty.
Sadie is an older sister to Max and Lily. Her most devoted fan is her Australian Labradoodle, Bruno, whom she adores.
General & Sponsorship Tickets
Experience the full event with a hosted reception and dinner. Whether joining us with a general admission ticket or as a sponsor with access to partial or full tables, your support helps power our mission.
Young Professional Tickets
Includes admission to Festival of Lights starting at 8:15 PM when you will hear our keynote speaker, Congressman Ritchie Torres, enjoy a special concert by Idan Raichel and enjoy delicious desserts!
