On Monday, January 22nd, Melissa Lantsman came in to speak at Holy Blossom. She came in to speak to the children in grades 6-10. Melissa Lantsman is a Jewish MP from the Conservative (blue) federal party. She is one of the 9 Jewish MPs in all of the House of Commons. Melissa Lantsman was raised in Thornhill and is now an MP in Thornhill. When she came to talk to the students at Holy Blossom, she talked about her childhood, her job, the war in Israel, her journey to Israel amidst battle a few months ago, and some personal stories. When she talked about her political role, she explained why she became a politician. She explained her perspective of Canada and what she wanted to change about it. Melissa Lantsman didn’t just talk about the Conservative party, she also talked about the differences between all of the parties. At the end of her speech, she left a section for questions. During this time many thought-provoking questions were asked. In the grade 8-9 class, when the class had a conversation about her, she was described as very informal, great with kids, and not as bias. The teacher, Gerri, said she noticed Melissa Lantsman “never pushed for her party”. Others commented on how they liked to listen to her perspective as a Jew. One person said Melissa Lantsman was very good with the younger children. It was also noticed that Melissa Lantsman didn’t talk with a script. Another student commented on how Melissa gave descriptive answers to questions when being put on the spot. Most people can’t give an answer right away when put on the spot, and if they do, the answers aren’t usually so descriptive.

 

A note from the author: 

Thank you Melissa Lantsman for speaking with all of us that Monday. I enjoyed your time. You are the second politician I have met. Recently, at my friend’s Bat Mitzvah service, I met Erin O’Tool, the former leader of your party. Also, I saw you speak at the Emergency Israel Rally in October. I think you are an amazing speaker. On January 22nd once I found out you were there, I immediately messaged my dad and told him to come upstairs to watch you speak. Whenever anyone mentions your name to me, I always only hear good things. Once again, thank you.

By: Abby Snider in Grade 8.