Former Secretary of State Colin L. Powell Speaks to Jewish Community About US Relations in the Middle East

Series Part of The Jewish Center's Mission to Provide Opportunity for Community to Hear Renowned Leaders and Public Figures Discuss Issues of Importance to Contemporary Society

New York, NY -- In its continuing mission to expand programming and provide the community the opportunity to hear from prominent public figures on issues of importance, The Jewish Center hosted General Colin L. Powell for a special lecture, “America and the Middle East,” as part of its May and Samuel Rudin Lecture Series at the Center.

“General Powell’s lecture at The Jewish Center was a wonderful event that generated an exceptional turnout and level of interest from the community,” said The Jewish Center’s Rabbi Ari Berman.  “The Jewish Center is committed to providing a forum for prominent leaders and public figures to address the public, while continuing to be a religious and educational destination for our members and the broader community.”

The event attracted over 750 members of not only the Jewish community, but also the overall community-at-large.  During the event Gen. Powell spoke about the past, present and future of the United States’ relations in the Middle East, touching on Israel, Iran and the war in Iraq.  He also spoke about his own relationships within the Jewish community, as he recounted his experiences and deeply formed bonds with a Jewish family who owned a store at which he spent most of his youth and college years working.

General Powell’s address was part of The Jewish Center’s May and Samuel Rudin Lecture Series, which was established by Jack Rudin in memory of his beloved parents, longtime members and leaders of The Jewish Center.

The Jewish Center, a landmark synagogue and a Center for Jewish Life and Learning on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, makes events such as this one available to the general public free of charge. Its goal is to provide the New York City community with the opportunity to hear from renowned statesmen, prominent public figures and outstanding scholars on issues of critical importance to contemporary society and religion.

Past speakers include:  His Eminence Edward Cardinal Egan, Arch Bishop of New York; Lee Bollinger, President of Columbia University; John Sexton, President of New York University; Richard Joel, President of Yeshiva University; Rabbi Dr. Norman Lamm, Chancellor of Yeshiva University; and Thomas Kean, former Governor of New Jersey and Chairman of the 9/11 Commission.