Baltimore, Maryland, January 21, 2026
Shirly Pinto Kadosh, Israel’s first Deaf Knesset member, captivated the Baltimore community with her compelling advocacy presentation. The event highlighted the challenges faced by Israel’s Deaf and disabled communities while emphasizing the critical need for local organizations to support these individuals. Attendees gained key insights into Pinto Kadosh’s advocacy efforts, particularly in promoting accessibility and inclusion within the community.
Shirly Pinto Kadosh Inspires Baltimore MD Community
Discover the impact of Israel’s first Deaf Knesset member in Baltimore
Baltimore, Maryland – On January 19, 2026, Shirly Pinto Kadosh, Israel’s first Deaf member of the Knesset, delivered a compelling presentation in Baltimore. The event, titled “Advocating for Israel: Hearing the Needs of Deaf and Disabled Communities in Israel,” was organized by the Hadassah of Greater Baltimore chapter. It focused on the challenges faced by Israel’s Deaf and disabled communities while highlighting advocacy efforts aimed at improving their lives.
This gathering not only showcased Pinto Kadosh’s remarkable achievements but also underscored the importance of local organizations in facilitating critical discussions on pressing social issues. By effectively coordinating events without significant bureaucratic hurdles, organizations like Hadassah empower communities to engage directly with transformative leaders, thereby reinforcing civic participation and fostering a strong sense of belonging.
Event Details
The program featured Pinto Kadosh, accompanied by interpreter Liat Petcho, and Yakir Eyal. They discussed advocacy for Israel, with Pinto Kadosh emphasizing her work supporting people with disabilities, including the organization she founded and her ongoing advocacy for Israel’s Deaf and disabled communities. The event was accessible to the Deaf community, with ASL interpreters provided, and security measures were in place. The location was disclosed upon registration.
Background on Shirly Pinto Kadosh
Shirly Pinto Kadosh made history in 2022 by becoming the first-ever Deaf member of Israel’s Knesset. She was sworn in using sign language, marking a significant milestone for representation in Israeli politics. Following the October 7, 2023, attacks, she founded The Purple Homefront (Chamal Sagol), a national network providing emergency support for people with disabilities and vulnerable communities. Her work reflects her commitment to a strong and inclusive Israel.
Advocacy and Community Engagement
Pinto Kadosh’s visit to Baltimore underscores the importance of cross-cultural dialogue and sharing experiences between communities. By addressing the needs of Deaf and disabled individuals in Israel, she aims to foster greater understanding and support for these communities both locally and internationally. The event provided attendees with insights into the challenges faced by these groups and the ongoing efforts to promote accessibility and inclusion.
About Hadassah of Greater Baltimore
Hadassah of Greater Baltimore is a chapter of Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America. The chapter is dedicated to supporting health, education, and social welfare initiatives in Israel and the United States. Through various programs and events, Hadassah engages the community in meaningful discussions and actions that promote Jewish values and support for Israel.
Conclusion
The event featuring Shirly Pinto Kadosh provided a platform for meaningful dialogue on the challenges and advocacy efforts related to Israel’s Deaf and disabled communities. It highlighted the importance of representation and the need for continued support and understanding across different communities. Local events like this inspire civic participation, encouraging residents to stay engaged in community development efforts in Baltimore MD.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Shirly Pinto Kadosh?
Shirly Pinto Kadosh is Israel’s first Deaf member of the Knesset, sworn in using sign language in 2022. She founded The Purple Homefront (Chamal Sagol) after the October 7, 2023, attacks to provide emergency support for people with disabilities and vulnerable communities.
What is The Purple Homefront (Chamal Sagol)?
The Purple Homefront (Chamal Sagol) is a national network founded by Shirly Pinto Kadosh to provide emergency support for people with disabilities and vulnerable communities in Israel.
What was the purpose of the event in Baltimore?
The event, titled “Advocating for Israel: Hearing the Needs of Deaf and Disabled Communities in Israel,” aimed to discuss the challenges faced by Israel’s Deaf and disabled communities and highlight advocacy efforts to improve their lives.
Who organized the event in Baltimore?
The event was organized by the Hadassah of Greater Baltimore chapter, a part of Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America.
What is Hadassah of Greater Baltimore?
Hadassah of Greater Baltimore is a chapter of Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America, dedicated to supporting health, education, and social welfare initiatives in Israel and the United States.
Key Features of the Event
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Speaker | Shirly Pinto Kadosh, Israel’s first Deaf member of the Knesset |
| Event Title | “Advocating for Israel: Hearing the Needs of Deaf and Disabled Communities in Israel” |
| Date | January 19, 2026 |
| Organizer | Hadassah of Greater Baltimore chapter |
| Location | Baltimore, Maryland |
| Focus | Challenges and advocacy efforts for Israel’s Deaf and disabled communities |
| Accessibility | ASL interpreters provided; security measures in place |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Author: STAFF HERE BALTIMORE WRITER
The BALTIMORE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBaltimore.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Baltimore, Baltimore County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Baltimore Book Festival, Preakness Stakes, and Artscape. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Baltimore Chamber of Commerce and Visit Baltimore, plus leading businesses in shipping and healthcare that power the local economy such as the Port of Baltimore and Johns Hopkins Medicine. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Maryland's dynamic landscape.
