Emily Austin, an American journalist revered for her dynamism and versatility, has made her mark in the media industry, not just as a journalist but also as an actress, model, and independent NBA broadcaster. As the anchor of the popular Instagram show “Daily Vibes with Emily Austin”, she has engaged a variety of personalities, athletes, politicians, and activists in meaningful conversations.
However, beyond her professional endeavours, Austin’s identity as a Jew and her unwavering support for Israel remain a significant part of her life, even amidst the challenges she faces, including antisemitism and discrimination within the entertainment industry. This piece delves into the details of Emily Austin’s background – her religion, origins, family, and ethnicity – all of which have shaped her experiences and career trajectory.
Emily Austin’s Jewish identity is deeply ingrained and stretches back to her upbringing on Long Island, New York. Born to Israeli immigrants who moved from Israel in the 1990s, Austin spent her childhood immersed in Jewish culture, traditions, and holidays, fostered within the environment of a Jewish day school. Her ties to Israel have been nurtured through numerous visits and the adoption of Hebrew, her ancestral language.
Austin’s pride in her Jewish heritage is evident; she wears a Star of David necklace as a symbol of her identity, and her social media platforms serve as a hub for open discussions on Jewish topics. Alongside these personal expressions, she actively stands against antisemitism, offering staunch advocacy for Israel’s right to self-defence and existence.
Austin’s influence extends beyond the realm of social media. She has been featured on notable Jewish media platforms including i24 News, JPost, Algemeiner, and Jewish Journal, and collaborates with organisations such as JNF, IAC, WJC, ICC, among others. Through these platforms, she shares her experiences, aiming to inspire and connect with other young Jews, underscoring the importance of celebrating and preserving their heritage in today’s world.
Delving into Emily Austin’s family background, her parents are of Israeli ethnicity and origin. They served in the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and studied at Tel Aviv University before moving to the United States in the 1990s to advance their careers and start a family. Emily and her younger sister Nicole were the results of this new chapter.
The Austin family shares a close-knit bond, often travelling and spending quality time together. Emily attributes her values of hard work, resilience, courage, and kindness to her parents, whose achievements she greatly admires.
Emily’s father, a successful businessman and philanthropist, has made significant donations to causes like education, healthcare, the arts, and culture. Her mother, a respected doctor and researcher, has made substantial contributions to oncology and immunology.
Proudly embracing her dual American and Israeli identity, Emily Austin hopes to utilise her platform to enlighten people about Israel and its people, aiming to foster peace and coexistence in the Middle East.
