Signer Spotlight: Patricia Heaton
Patricia Heaton is an Emmy-winning actress whose career has spanned television, theater, feature films and publishing. A committed philanthropist and founding member of World Vision’s Celebrity Ambassador Network, Heaton has traveled to Rwanda, Zambia and Syria with the humanitarian organization. Heaton is a mother to four sons and lives in Los Angeles with her husband.
Even as a non-Jew, you recently signed the Jewish Future Promise. What inspired you to make that commitment, and what does it mean to you?
The promise is a commitment to furthering the cause of Israel and the Jewish people. The health and security of Israel are important to the world, and the promise ensures their safety and flourishing into the future.
Your book, Your Second Act, focuses on embracing new chapters in life. How do you see your advocacy for Israel and the Jewish people fitting into this next chapter of your journey?
I never expected to create a movement to support Israel and fight antisemitism. The events of October 7 changed all that. We are seeing violence and lies against Jewish people that we never thought we would see again. So, it’s clear that we in the West need to be ever vigilant if we want to safeguard freedom, democracy, and our Judeo-Christian values.
Throughout your career, you’ve used your platform to champion various humanitarian causes. How do you see your work with organizations like World Vision aligning with your support for Israel and Jewish communities?
Both World Vision and Israel and the Jewish people share the philosophy of “Tikkun olam” – “repair the world.” They both work towards the peaceful flourishing of all human beings.
What would you say to other non-Jewish allies who want to stand with the Jewish community but may feel hesitant or unsure of how to do so?
Start locally! Reach out to your neighborhood synagogues and share your desire to support them! Organize a community event that brings all people together – like the O7C community tables. Find out if your church has an education program about Jewish and Christian history – if not, organize one! Local Rabbis and the local Jewish federation can help!
Looking ahead, how do you hope your advocacy will impact the conversation around Israel and the Jewish people, both in Hollywood and beyond?
I hope people will see that it is safe to speak up for freedom of religion and for peace between people of all faiths. The nation of Israel is sending their sons and daughters to fight radical Islam not only on behalf of their country but on behalf of the whole world. We owe them an eternal debt of gratitude.
