Velis speaks out about importance of Israel trip

BOSTON, Mass. (WWLP)–Senator John Velis is the co-chair of a special commission combating antisemitism and he traveled to Israel and Palestinian refugee camps late last month.

The Israeli government spent about $6,000 on flights and hotels for Velis–a common practice for visiting diplomats–but one that has sparked concern about his ability to lead his commission without bias.

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The Westfield senator told 22News that traveling to Israel and Palestinian refugee camps and speaking to those most impacted by the conflict was an essential learning experience as a non-Jewish senator leading the commission.

“Of course Israel is a place you’d want to go if you’re looking into antisemitism,” said Velis.

The Globe article quoted the leader of Boston’s Jewish Voice for Peace, and she says his trip raises “an enormous question about Velis’ neutrality.” The organization was among those urging the governor to veto the combating antisemitism commission, due to concerns about the commission’s definition of antisemitism.

Velis says he deeply values neutrality about the Israel-Palestine conflict, but will not remain neutral about antisemitism itself.

“The notion that someone should be neutral as it pertains to combating antisemitism, or any type of hatred, is absolutely preposterous,” said Velis.

The American Jewish Committee chimed in on the situation, saying “efforts to cast doubt on him appear politically motivated and unwarranted.”

Senator Velis told 22News that despite criticism, he will continue to have conversations with Jewish and non-Jewish community members, as well as Israelis and Palestinians, in his fight to push back against antisemitism.

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