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In a little over a week, I’m leaving on a Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) leadership mission to Ukraine and Israel along with our Jewish Federation & Family Services (JFFS) Board Co-Chair Lori Schwartz. I’ll be sharing more about the trip with you from the ground. In the meantime, I’m looking forward to the privilege of being back in Israel. It seems like it’s always an interesting time to be in Israel. And, it’s understandable. As a relatively young nation (Israel is 69 years young compared to America, turning 241 next week), there are naturally challenges that arise as she matures. This past week was no exception. On Sunday, The Government of Israel’s Ministerial Committee for Legislation gave approval for a draft bill that would for the first time ever give the Chief Rabbinate a monopoly on conversion in Israel. The Government also reached a decision to suspend or freeze a 2016 resolution on egalitarian prayer at the Western Wall (Kotel). Over the last week, Jewish Federations of North America leaders, in partnership with Natan Sharansky and The Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI), held meetings with dozens of Israel officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, members of Knesset (Israel’s legislature), and Israeli ministers, and worked closely with religious movements and many Israel-based organizations. The prime minister and government leaders listened intently and understood concerns that these developments represent an existential threat to Diaspora Jewry. Here’s where things stand now: The Conversion Bill The Kotel What are we doing? How can you help? Here’s what you can do to help:
The situation continues to evolve and our communal voice is a vital force. We will keep you updated. Shabbat Shalom and Happy Fourth of July, Arlene Miller
Mission Statement: We care for people in need and strengthen Jewish life in Orange County, Israel, and around the world. |
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