John Velis
State Senator, Hampden and Hampshire at Massachusetts Senate
Disclosures
In January 2025, John Velis accepted a free trip to Israel, paid for by the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He traveled there as part of the New England Legislator’s Delegation. The total value of this trip was $6,138. disclosure and reconcilliation
In July 2023, John Velis accepted a free trip to Israel, paid for by the American Israel Education Foundation (AIEF). AIEF is a 501(c)(3) affiliated with The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). The total value of this trip was $9,451. disclosure
Links
- Trip to Western Massachusetts by Israel in Boston Aug 16, 2025 Senator Velis met with Israeli Consul General Benjamin Sharoni. The Senator gave Sharoni a tour of Westfield State University and the Basketball Hall of Fame.
- State lawmaker leading Mass. antisemitism panel took Israel-funded trip, sparking pushback from critics
Bills
Instances where John Velis supported pro-Israel legislation.
| Oct 12, 2023 |
Massachusetts Senate Resolution 2462, 193rd (2023 - 2024)
A resolution declaring "the Israeli people have an inalienable right to defend themselves against acts of terrorism" and that "calls on the United States government to continue to stand with the people of Israel" |
Events
Instances where John Velis showed support for the State of Israel.
| May 15, 2025 |
Israel Independence Day Celebration 2025
The Israeli Consulate in Boston invited numerous local dignitaries and influencers to celebrate the founding of the State of Israel at the UMass Club. |
| Mar 27, 2024 |
Diplomats Seder
Seder hosted by AJC New England and the Israeli Consulate to New England |
| Oct 29, 2023 |
Together for Israel
Event hosted by Jewish Federation of Western Massachusetts |
| Dec 1, 2016 |
Boston JCRC Community Leaders Study Tour
Trip to Israel for State Representatives sponsored by Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Boston |
Photos
