Proud to Be, Proud to Lead:
Seattle’s Lions of Judah Celebrate Women’s Philanthropy in Atlanta
Jan. 21, 2025
Last weekend, the Marriott Marquis in Atlanta, Georgia, roared to life with the energy of over 1,700 philanthropic women attending the International Lion of Judah Conference (ILOJC). Representing more than 90 communities worldwide, including Spain, Israel, the UK, Mexico, and Guatemala, the conference also welcomed five members of the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle’s Board of Directors.
Seattle’s Campaign Chair, Stephanie Shujman, described her conference experience as nothing short of “tremendous.”
“Together, we honored our Jewish heritage, deepened our connection to Israel, and embraced our roles as Lions of Judah—leaders who inspire and create lasting impact,” she remarked.
“Together, we honored our Jewish heritage, deepened our connection to Israel, and embraced our roles as Lions of Judah—leaders who inspire and create lasting impact.”
– Stephanie Shujman, Seattle Lion
The conference, aimed at celebrating the Lions of Judah’s extraordinary impact, representing over $36 million in annual campaign giving and $34 million toward the Israel Emergency Fund, was filled with moments that brought attendees to their feet and left them with a renewed sense of purpose. Rachel Goldberg-Polin, a tireless advocate for Israeli hostages in Gaza, was honored with the Lion of Valor Award.
In a heartfelt moment, Goldberg-Polin thanked the Lions for their unwavering support during unimaginable hardship. “You’ve never stopped advocating, shouting, praying, crying, being with us,” Goldberg-Polin said. “We appreciate it. We need it. We feel it. We are all grateful.”
Another highlight came when Michal Herzog, First Lady of Israel, as she accepted the Ruth Bader Ginsburg Award. Her tireless work in exposing systemic sexual crimes perpetrated by Hamas has made a profound difference, and her words inspired the Lions of Judah to continue fighting for justice.
The Lions of Judah are a global sisterhood of more than 18,000 philanthropic women who contribute at least $5,000 annually to their local Federation. Collectively, these women have raised over $1 billion to support vulnerable populations, preserve Jewish identity, and strengthen communities both locally and globally. Since its founding in 1972, the program has grown into a force for good, bringing together women of all ages to lead with passion and purpose.
Alongside celebrating past accomplishments, the conference was aimed at equipping Lions with the tools and inspiration to continue their work. Attendees learned from experts across fields, talked about how to address antisemitism in their local communities, and support our brothers and sisters in Israel. They also built connections that will strengthen their communities and their resolve to address the challenges ahead.
For Stephanie and the Seattle delegation, the conference underscored the incredible power of collective action. “I had the opportunity to connect with my roots, spark meaningful conversations, and amplify my power as part of this incredible network of women,” she reflected. “Proud to be, proud to lead, and proud to make a difference.”
Visit www.lionconference.org to view highlights from the conference. For those interested in becoming a Lion of Judah, please contact Tori Schwartz at toris@jewishinseattle.org
