As most of you know, I’m a strong supporter of Israel. It is because of this support that I’m so troubled by the actions of the Israeli government this week – actions that threaten to undermine the American-Israeli relationship and Klal Yisrael – the global Jewish community.
- On Sunday, the Israeli Ministerial Committee for Legislation approved a bill that would only recognize conversions to Judaism that were done under the supervision of Israel’s Chief Rabbi. This bill has the potential to create a dangerous Orthodox monopoly that will have the power to determine who is a Jew in Israel and, at the same time, strip hundreds of thousands of Israelis of their Jewish identity. Learn more here.
- Also on Sunday, the Israeli government chose to suspend plans that were agreed upon last year to build an egalitarian prayer space at the Kotel (Western Wall), the holiest place for the Jewish people. This suspension dismisses the desires of those of us outside of the Orthodox world to create a sacred place to pray at the Kotel. Learn more here.
As non-Orthodox Jews, we must let Israeli officials know that their actions are not acceptable. There is room in our community for various ways to connect to the spiritual spark that lies at the core of Judaism. Certainly, Orthodox Jewish practice must be respected but not by excluding the practice of those who find spiritual meaning in the non-Orthodox Jewish world.
Many Jews across the world are outraged by these decisions made by Israeli leaders (read The Jewish Agency’s powerful condemnation here). But more voices are needed. We need you to take a stand. Let Prime Minister Netanyahu and his government know that American Jews expect Israel, our spiritual home, to take bold steps to embrace pluralism.
- Share your concerns with the Consulate General in Miami by clicking here (be patient – the site may be flooded).
- Contact Prime Minister Netanyahu by clicking here (be patient – the site may be flooded).
- Share your concerns and the above links with your friends, family and social media contacts.
Thank you for making a difference.