Raphael Baum

Let us tell you who Sarah was: Sarah’s greatest joy in life was animals. From a young age, she dreamed of becoming a veterinarian or a zookeeper. Her beloved service dog, Andy, had been with her since she was 17, and he was truly the light of her life. She had a deep love for nature and was absolutely obsessed with fresh flowers—every week, Yaron brought her a new bouquet, and it never failed to light up her day. Sarah carried a quiet strength that spoke volumes. She also possessed a wisdom far beyond her years, coupled with an effortless charm that made people feel instantly seen and valued. When she made the decision to join the Embassy team, she went through an incredibly difficult period. Many of her closest friends turned their backs on her. They accused her of being complicit in genocide, implied she was a terrible person for accepting the role, and ultimately cut off all contact. But Sarah stood firm. She knew exactly who she was and what she believed in. She was a peacemaker. She said that when she showed the job description to her family and other friends in the pro-Israel or “Israel-friendly” space, everyone agreed with her that the job was perfect for her. The position suited her, and it fit her passions, abilities, and experience. Her commitment to peace and diplomacy also led her to work closely with the U.S. administration. Sarah was a respected voice in policy discussions, where she built bridges between communities and advocated for mutual understanding. She brought knowledge, empathy, and conviction to every room she entered—always with the goal of building a better future. Her warmth, grace, authenticity, and natural charisma drew people in, and she soon formed an entirely new circle of friends. She threw herself into causes that mattered deeply to her, working to protect the environment through numerous organizational partnerships. Even in her own home, she lived out her values—she was strict about recycling and sustainable living. Sarah radiated joy, spunk, and energy in everything she did. She was unapologetically herself in every space she entered. She lived by the Jewish ideal of being a “light unto the nations.” Her mission was to bring light to those who were ostracized for their pro-Israel views. She stood proudly as a Jew and a Zionist, even in spaces that resisted her presence—whether in LGBTQ+ advocacy, environmental circles, or women’s rights groups. She worked with minorities, with the science and space sectors, and was deeply committed to advancing rights for people with disabilities. Sarah was a bright, unwavering light in this world. She stood tall, she stood true, and she will always be remembered for the strength, kindness, charm, and courage she embodied—along with a wisdom that made us all feel like we were learning something just by being near her. Her light continues to shine in the hearts of everyone she touched, and her legacy will live on in the beauty and justice she brought to the world. Everyone could see her from a mile away not only for her red hair but for her smile, warmth, love of life, and light-hearted approach to life. No amount of statements or words will ever encapsulate Sarah. Our Sarah. Sarah Milgrim HYD. In grief and agony, Public Diplomacy Team, Embassy of Israel 📸: Talia Garber