Hannah Einbinder Slams Israeli Government Over Gaza Attacks in Powerful Human Rights Speech
Actress Hannah Einbinder used her speech at the Human Rights Campaign’s Los Angeles Dinner to criticize the Israeli government’s military actions in Gaza. She received the Visibility Award for her contributions to LGBTQ+ representation and emphasized that her Jewish and queer identities are rooted in social justice. Einbinder condemned the deaths of over 65,000 Palestinians, calling it a massacre funded by U.S. tax dollars. She argued that questioning authority is central to Jewish tradition and that Israel’s actions do not represent Jewish safety.
She warned that conflating Israel’s actions with Jewish identity puts Jews at greater risk. Einbinder also referenced Palestinian activist Mahmoud Khalil’s detention, contrasting it with the real threats posed by white nationalists. She stressed that true advocacy means opposing institutions that fuel mass violence. Her speech called on those with platforms to speak out against injustice. The event also honored Janelle Monáe and Ashley Park, with a performance by David Archuleta.
Hannah Einbinder Slams Israeli Government Over Gaza Attacks in Powerful Human Rights Speech
At a recent Human Rights Campaign event in Los Angeles, actress Hannah Einbinder—best known for her role in the TV series Hacks—used her acceptance speech to criticize the Israeli government’s military actions in Gaza. Einbinder, who received the Visibility Award for her contributions to LGBTQ+ representation, chose to focus her remarks on the ongoing conflict, linking her Jewish and queer identities to a broader commitment to human rights.
During her emotional speech, Einbinder shared that her Jewish upbringing instilled in her a deep respect for justice, compassion, and questioning authority. She expressed grief over the reported deaths of more than 65,000 Palestinians in Gaza, describing the situation as a “massacre” funded by U.S. tax dollars. “It shouldn’t be controversial to say that murdering civilians is wrong,” she asserted, emphasizing that her stance is rooted in the belief that all human life must be valued equally.
She also rejected the notion that supporting the Israeli government’s policies is synonymous with supporting Jewish people. Einbinder argued that conflating Jewish identity with Israel’s military actions actually puts Jewish communities at greater risk by diverting attention from genuine threats, such as antisemitism fueled by white nationalist groups and far-right extremists. “True Jewish safety cannot come from violence,” she stated. “It comes from solidarity and accountability.”
The actress highlighted the case of Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist detained during protests at Columbia University. She praised Khalil’s nonviolent advocacy and contrasted his treatment with the lack of consequences for public figures who spread antisemitic rhetoric. Einbinder emphasized that criticizing a government’s actions is not the same as attacking a religion or ethnicity, urging people to recognize the distinction.
Reflecting on her platform, Einbinder acknowledged the responsibility that comes with public visibility. “I have a microphone now, and I have to use it,” she said, encouraging others to speak out against injustice even when it feels uncomfortable. She tied this message to her LGBTQ+ advocacy, explaining that both her queer and Jewish identities compel her to fight for marginalized communities everywhere.
The Human Rights Campaign’s Los Angeles Dinner also honored singer and actor Janelle Monáe and actress Ashley Park for their contributions to LGBTQ+ visibility. Former American Idol star David Archuleta, who came out as queer in 2021, performed at the event.
Einbinder’s speech stood out for its bold political stance, reflecting a growing trend of celebrities using awards ceremonies to address global issues. By connecting her personal history to broader calls for peace, she sought to challenge stereotypes and spark dialogue. Her remarks underscored the complexity of balancing cultural heritage with political critique—a tension many activists navigate in discussions about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
While opinions on her views may vary, Einbinder’s message centered on universal principles: opposing violence, questioning power, and advocating for empathy. As debates over free speech, antisemitism, and human rights continue to evolve, her remarks highlight the role personal narratives play in shaping public discourse.
The event, while celebrating progress in LGBTQ+ rights, also served as a reminder that the fight for equality transcends national borders. By linking the struggle for Palestinian rights to queer and Jewish values, Einbinder underscored the interconnectedness of social justice movements in the pursuit of a more just world.