Dan Brotman, 37-38, was born in the United States and immigrated to Israel after high school. He would eventually serve in its military. Brotman then returned to the U.S. to complete a degree at the University of Oregon, and then moved to South Africa where he, according to The Detroit Jewish News, served “as head of media and public affairs for the Cape South African Jewish Board of Deputies.” Brotman then moved to Windsor, Ont., where he served for several years as the executive director of the Windsor Jewish Federation and Community Centre.
In December 2023, Brotman got into an online spat with the Consul General of Israel in Montreal, Paul Hirschson. The exchange, which was covered by Canadian and Israeli media, began after Brotman posted on social media applauding an online program for Jewish professionals considering relocating to Windsor, including doctors. Hirschson replied, “Is it cynicism or irony that while you actively work to weaken Israel’s ability to treat our wounded, the executive director of the Windsor Jewish Federation ‘Stands With Israel?’”
Brotman told CBC Windsor, “It was very hurtful. I’m an Israeli citizen. I served in the Israeli army. I essentially felt that I was being called a traitor — publicly.” He added, “We are by no means trying to steal doctors or professionals specifically from Israel.” Hirschson, meanwhile, told CBC, “To try to recruit Israelis, Israeli doctors — the most sensitive profession that we need right now … I think it’s a great tragedy.”
In 2024, Brotman said he planned to move to the United Kingdom for a master’s degree.
