GOLDA: A Reckoning

On August 24th, the Federation CJA in Montreal launched its annual fundraising campaign. The campaign included taking over all eight screens of the newly renovated CineStarz Deluxe Cavendish to show two screenings of “Golda,” featuring Helen Mirren as the iconic Israeli leader, Golda Meir.

The campaign continues the tradition of Jewish philanthropy that focuses on helping those in need, similar to charitable traditions in cultures worldwide. This year, their #StandUpCampaign is dedicated to supporting vulnerable communities and addressing antisemitism, a challenge with both local and global significance.

Golda Meir’s Unyielding Leadership

Golda delves into the tense days of the Yom Kippur War in 1973 when Israel was caught off guard by simultaneous attacks from Egypt and Syria—on the holiest day of the Jewish year. The film vividly portrays the shock and the immediate danger that millions of Israelis face.¹

The exceptional aspect of the story is Golda Meir’s leadership during this critical moment. As Prime Minister, her decisions directly affected the nation’s survival. Recently released battlefield footage intensifies the film, providing a raw look at the human cost of war.²

Meir resigned after the war, taking much of the blame for Israel’s losses. Debate over whether her age, gender, and other factors affected the country’s lack of preparedness persisted for years.

Golda’s Private Struggles

The film offers a detailed look at Golda Meir’s personal challenges, including her battle with cancer, her efforts to maintain morale during turbulent times, and her frustration with the U.S. delay in providing military aid. These aspects reveal the intense balancing act of leadership, a struggle that anyone in a position of authority can understand.

However, the film is not solely focused on her role as a leader. Golda Meir’s humanity is vividly portrayed through her quiet compassion and unwavering determination. Despite the odds, her strength and dedication offer enduring lessons in leadership.

Helen Mirren’s portrayal of Meir is extraordinary. Through her nuanced body language and subtle emotional expressions, Mirren adds layers to the character that linger long after the film ends.

High Holidays: A Time for Reflection

The film’s release during the Jewish High Holidays, a time of reflection and renewal, feels especially fitting. Like holidays in other faiths, these days allow Jewish people to reconnect with their heritage and traditions and offer personal and communal introspection opportunities. The retelling of the story of Moses and the Golden Calf during this season reminds us of human frailty and the importance of forgiveness—universal themes that resonate across cultures.³

A particularly moving part of the Yom Kippur service is the Yizkor prayer, where people reflect on loved ones who have passed. This year, one congregation member shared his memories of the Yom Kippur War, reminding us how the history portrayed in Golda is still deeply personal for many.

The Yom Kippur War: Lessons in Resilience

A documentary circulating during this time, Yom Kippur War: From the Beit Midrash to the Battlefield, tells the story of a miraculous rescue during the war. It highlights how deeply rooted traditions, much like those in other communities, can provide strength during difficult times. Whether it’s the sense of community, faith, or shared history, these sources of resilience transcend cultural and religious lines.

A Universal Leadership Lesson

Golda is not just about one woman or country; it’s a story of leadership, resilience, and sacrifice. Watching it during a time when so many are reflecting on their own lives makes it even more impactful. Golda Meir’s journey speaks to anyone who has had to navigate difficult decisions, lead in tough times, or find strength when facing overwhelming odds. Her story is a powerful reminder of the endurance of the human spirit and the importance of standing up for one’s values—a message that anyone can appreciate.


Footnotes:

  1. “The Yom Kippur War: Background & Overview.” Jewish Virtual Library, www.jewishvirtuallibrary.org.
  2. Ynet News: Israel declassifies massive archive to mark 50th anniversary of Yom Kippur War.” Ynetnews, www.ynetnews.com.
  3. Isaacs, Jacob. “The Golden Calf.” Chabad.org, Kehot Publication Society

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