THE SECRETARY IS WEARING: Well, good morning, everyone. Thank you. Thank you all for being here today. This is a wonderful place. I’ve had someone admit that other people are coming here. I just had a chance to speak with the director. But this is, in many ways, a sanctuary for people from all walks of life in Israel, from all faiths, all backgrounds, all languages, to come together to exchange through arts and culture and – through them and to share themselves. And in this sense, I know, and with the name itself, everyone is welcome. And this spirit, I think, would not be more important, more valuable.
The colleagues who are here today are a living part of civil society and for us in government, civil society plays an absolutely critical role. It can be our North Star, keeping us focused and honest when it comes to making sure we’re sticking to the principles we all stand for. And reminding us of what’s really important in the work we’re doing, which is to try to make sure each of us is treated with the dignity we deserve as human beings.
So I’m just grateful for this opportunity to hear from each of you, to learn a little more about what you’re doing, and maybe some of the challenges you’re facing, and to think about how we can move forward. to partner together. But for me, it was especially wonderful to be here in this country that I know is a welcoming place for so many people. Thank you.
