Regina Morantz-Sanchez, Professor of History, Univeristy of Michigan, U.S
Regina Morantz-Sanchez (Born in Brooklyn, NY, 1943), Professor of History, Univeristy of Michigan (just this month Emerita). In 1945 my father moved family from Brooklyn to San Fernando Valley, CA where I group up. Got very good Jewish education, pursued after school Hebrew School by choice, only girl in the Bar Mitzvah class, Holocaust survivors and YERIDIM […]
Ashleigh Werner, Board of Directors, World Union of Jewish Students, Sydney, Australia
Ashleigh Werner (born 1992, Sydney),member of the board of directors of the WUJS (World Union of Jewish Students), former National Campaigns Coordinator at the AUJS (Australasian Union of Jewish Students). Werner is a Business and Art student at UTS (University of Technology Sydney) and holds the position of UTS Student Brand Manager. Lives in Sydney, Australia. In your opinion, what importance, […]
Alan D. Abbey, Media and Internet Director, Shalom Hartman Institute
Alan D. Abbey, Media and Internet Director, Shalom Hartman Institute. Founded Ynetnews, the English website of Yedioth Ahronoth. Abbey was born in Brooklyn, New York and today lives in Jerusalem, Israel. In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general? The existence […]
David Montijas, President of Jewish Community of Pancevo, Serbia
David Montijas, president of Jewish Community of Pancevo, a city located in the southern part of Autonomous Province of Vojvodina, in Republic of Serbia. About 14,500 out of a pre-war population of 16,000 Serbian Jews were killed in World War II. Today the number of Jewish residents in Pancevo is about 30 people. In your […]
Prof. Marcos Peckel, Executive Director of the Jewish Confederation of Colombia
“The existence of the State of Israel is of Utmost importance. It provides a strong and renewed meaning to being Jewish and invigorates Jewish identity, both in the personal and communal levels.” The Interviewee – Professor Marcos Peckel. Executive Director of the Jewish Confederation of Colombia (umbrella organization of Colombian Jewry). Born in Bogota in […]
Dale Jeffries, President of the Porto Synagogue, Portugal
“The Jewish religion is almost 6000 years old, Israel is only 70. The Jews are the people of the book, not the people of the land.” The Interviewee – Dale Jeffries, born in NYC 1954. Grew up in Woodmere, New York. I’m a musician, lived in Portugal for 27 years, am currently lives in Miami. Musician […]
Bentzion Chanowitz, President at Beis Yisroel Torah Gemach Jewish Loan Society, Brooklyn, New York
“The Jews in the diaspora have to follow what the Jews in Israel are thinking because they are front line.“ The Interviewee – Bentzion Chanowitz, I run the Beis Yisroel Torah Gemach which provides Kosher primary and secondary Torahs to start-up Shuls and Chabad centers all over the world. I will be turning 60 and […]
Susan Rosenbluth, Editor and Publisher, New Jersey
“Many, but not all, Israelis now realize that the two fastest-growing movements outside and inside Israel are the secular and the Orthodox.“ The Interviewee – Susan Rosenbluth (Born 1947), editor and publisher of The Jewish Voice and Opinion and TheJewishVoiceAndOpinion.com. Born in New York, currently a resident of Bergen County, NJ. In your opinion, what […]
Sandy Wasserman, Consultant, Florida
“When we take inventory of the progress being made daily on this relatively small piece of land, it does indicate to us that Israel is a model for our planet to follow.“ The Interviewee – Sandy Wasserman (Born 1940), Consultant. I grew up in Brooklyn NY, graduated from Long Island University with a degree in Advertising […]
Joannie Friedman, Producer, Baltimore
“The geopolitical safety of the state of Israel cannot be provided by the Orthodox segment.“ The Interviewee – Joannie Friedman, Producer. I live in Baltimore, Maryland. I’m working on bringing JOSEPHINE to the great white way…a musical based on a period of time in life of Josephine Baker. In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the […]
Albert Kaplan, Animals rights activist, Nevada
“Israel will become a Theocracy. It is certain, merely a matter of time.” The Interviewee – Albert Kaplan (Born 1932), Former stockbroker, animals rights activist, anti-abortion activist, anti-vivisection activist. Born in Gouverneur, New York. Married, reside in rural Nevada. In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you […]
Belle Jarniewski, Chair at Freeman Family Foundation Holocaust Education Centre, Winnipeg
“I think that Israel has for far too long related to a rightwing audience. Of course there is funding from the Sheldon Adelsons of the world and his ilk. However, I believe that there is a real danger of alienating the younger generation by continuing along these lines.” The Interviewee – Belle Jarniewski, Chair, Freeman Family […]
Ranen Omer-Sherman, Professor of Jewish Studies, University of Louisville
“The well-being of Israelis seems to me increasingly dependent on learning from Diaspora perspectives on a variety of issues such as multiculturalism, women’s rights, secularism, tolerance for the other, and democratic values. These are all threatened in Israel today.” The Interviewee – Ranen Omer-Sherman (Born 1957), JHFE Endowed Professor of Jewish Studies, University of Louisville. Born in […]
William Wolff, Hillel BC Program Coordinator, Canada
“I don’t feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions but it affects my interaction with Canadian society.” The Interviewee – William Wolff, Hillel BC Program Coordinator. Born in Mexico. Moved to Canada. MA degree in psychoanalysis. Currently working for Hillel BC. In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to […]
Robbert Baruch, Manager Public Affairs, The Hague
“Israelis see themselves as superior to other people as a result of ongoing threat they are going through. This is a threat to Jewish life as Israelis tend to behave rather impolitely in the Diaspora.” The Interviewee – Robbert Baruch (Born 1970), Manager Public Affairs, The Hague, Netherlands. In your opinion, what importance, if any, does […]
David M Abouav, Executive Chairman, Univex Group, Melbourne
“My personal belief is that there would be peace on earth if religion was something private and individual between people and their god.” The Interviewee -David M. Abouav (Born 1943), Executive Chairman The Univex Group, Founder The Australia Times, Founder Nimbus Media Ltd. Born in Gav Yam A (now Kiryat Yam). I was the first baby of Kiryat Yam. […]
Vernon Kurtz, Rabbi at North Suburban Synagogue Beth El Highland Park, Illinois
“I do not currently live in Israel and therefore do not feel comfortable judging Israel’s military and political actions.” The Interviewee –Vernon Kurtz (Born 1951), Rabbi at North Suburban Synagogue Beth El Highland Park Il. I was born in Toronto, Canada. In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have […]
Karla Rivas Finkelstein, Executive Director, Zionist Council of Mexico
“For me it is very important to maintain the state of Israel for future generations and fight for their future as it is the house where you can always come back.” The Interviewee – Karla Rivas Finkelstein (Born 1989), I was born in Mexico City, study in the new Israeli school in the ciuidad of mexico […]
Rabbi David L Kline, Brooklyn, New York
“Israel is the spiritual and intellectual spark for Diaspora Jews. This means providing opportunities for visits and study and promoting cultural missions from the Land to the lands.” The Interviewee – Rabbi David L Kline (Born 1935), I was born in Asheville. My grandfather in Budapest was Neologue, my father was a Reform rabbi. On my […]
Benjamin L. Shinewald, Toronto
“Allowing Jews of all background and perspectives to find their own paths to Jewish identity would make Israel a far more vibrant place, Jewishly.” The Interviewee – Benjamin L. Shinewald (Born 1972), I was born in Winnipeg, Canada. I am a lawyer/professional living in Toronto. I write on the side, including on Jewish/Israeli topics, in the general […]
Rabbi Judith Seid, San Francisco
“We are legitimate Jews, the diaspora is what shaped Jewish culture and that diaspora culture isn’t something to be ashamed of.” The Interviewee – Judith Seid (Born 1949), Rabbi and Cantor Also CPA. I Grew up in Los Angeles. Now live about 40 miles east of San Francisco. In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of […]
A’, Sydney
“I think most of the diaspora relationship is built on giving money to Israel and that seems very outdated and one-dimensional.” The Interviewee – A’ (Born 1971), born in Johannesburg, south Africa, but now live in Sydney, Australia. Wished to remain anonymous. In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have […]
Shaul Ussishkin, Writer, London
“Can the Diaspora and Israel live without each other? At the present time the painful answer is yes.” The Interviewee – Shaul Ussishkin (Born 1950), Writer, I live in NW London. In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general? “I […]
Rabbi Joseph R. Black, Sr. Rabbi at Temple Emanuel, Denver
“As Zionists – as Jews we must be vigilant in our defense of Israel’s Right to Exist.” The Interviewee – Rabbi Joseph R. Black (Born 1959), Sr. Rabbi at Temple Emanuel, Denver, Colorado. I was born in Chicago, IL in 1959. l Very active in the Reform movement. I have served as a Reform Rabbi for 27+ […]
K’, Scholar, Israel
“The official priesthood of the Orthodox rabbinate in Israel is an abomination and a perversion of what Judaism is all about.” The Interviewee – K’, scholar, Israel. In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general? “Israel’s existence is of paramount […]
Keith Senzer, Owner at Powershift Coaching, NY
“Though American I consider Israel my homeland and am 100% behind it being protected and recognized.” The Interviewee – Keith Senzer (Born 1968), Owner Powershift Coaching. I am a Youth Empowerment Coach, live in Merrick NY and Keep kosher in the house and have a 19 years old girl and 16 years old boy. In your opinion, what importance, […]
Aliza Silverstein, Chicago, Illinois
“I identify as orthodox. I believe Israel should be a theocracy. However I do not agree with the chareidi power grab” The Interviewee – Aliza Silverstein (Born 1953), Chicago, Illinois. In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general? “The existence of […]
Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D. Spiritual leader, Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation
“My experience with Israelis indicates to me that they are upset that we do not make Aliyah. While I understand their concern, I believe it is unfounded. There have always been Diaspora Jews since the destruction of the first Temple.” The Interviewee – Rabbi Irwin Wiener (Born 1936), D.D. Spiritual leader – Sun Lakes Jewish […]
R’, Member of the American Jewish Community
“We have a moral stake in Israel. While Israelis have a country to worry about and how it affects their lives.” The Interviewee – Member of the American Jewish Community. Requested to remain anonymous. In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in […]
Rabbi Kerry M. Olitzky, Executive Director, Big Tent Judaism, New Jersey
“I believe that the dominance of so-called Orthodoxy in the religious establishment in Israel is becoming less and less relevant to me and causing a further undermining of the relationship between American Jews and Israel.” The Interviewee – Rabbi Kerry M. Olitzky (Born 1954), Executive Director, Big Tent Judaism. Born in Pittsburgh, raised in central Florida in […]
Stephen Horblitt, Retired, Washington D.C.
“I feel very committed to the defense of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state.” The Interviewee – Stephen Horblitt (Born 1942), Retired, former Director External Relations at Creative Associates International and also for 14 years a Legislative Director on Capitol hill. Before that I was a teacher and administrator in academia. Born In New […]
Norman Goldstein, Retired Attorney, Community Activist, Chicago
“When will you have the guts to take on the ULTRA-Orthodox establishment to enable the State of Israel to live to to its full potential as a democratic country serving the diverse interests of ALL of its people?” The Interviewee – Norman Goldstein (Born 1942), Retired attorney, community activist. Born in Chicago, Illinois, graduate University of Chicago […]
Ted Sokolsky, Sr. Strategic advisor to the Jewish Agency, Canada
“Israelis fail to fully comprehend the meaning of Jewish Peoplehood, and as such fail to really understand our interdependence and connectivity.” The Interviewee – Ted Sokolsky (Born 1951), past CEO of Jewish Federation of Toronto, currently a Sr. Strategic advisor to the Jewish Agency. Born in Toronto, I’m an active Jewish communal professional for the past 45 years. […]
Sophia Maler, Marketing Manager, California
“I don’t think some Israelis really understand the commitment it requires to be Jewish in diaspora. But this is not true about all Israelis.” The Interviewee – Sophia Maler (Born 1969), Marketing Manager, San Carlos , California. In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally […]
Prof. Zachary Braiterman, Director, Jewish Studies Program, Syracuse University
“I think the dominance in Israel of orthodox Judaism, religious settlements, racism, and messianism are destructive to the fabric of Jewish life.” The Interviewee – Zachary Braiterman (Born 1963), Professor, Department of Religion, Director, Jewish Studies Program, Syracuse University. Born in Baltimore, phd from Stanford, alumnus of Habonim Dror. In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of […]
Lucinda Lees, Registered Nurse, California
“To say that Jews are morally responsible for the actions of the state seems foolish. We should be educated, if we disagree we should be vocal.” The Interviewee – Lucinda Lees (Born 1978), Registered Nurse. Grew up on the east coast, Bay Area since 1997 In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of […]
Lauren Helfand, Alameda, CA
“I really wish the Orthodox weren’t so dominant. I’m glad that the Progressive movement is growing stronger in Israel.” The Interviewee – Lauren Helfand, Alameda, CA. In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general? “Israel is home. Even if […]
B, Los Angeles
“I think it’s problematic that non Orthodox Jews are not given the rights and respect they deserve under the law.” The Interviewee – B, Los Angeles, requested to remain anonymous. In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general? “Extremely important.” […]
Rabbi David A. Teutsch, Director, Center for Jewish Ethics, Philadelphia
“I am ideologically committed to religious pluralism and the separation of all religions from all governments. Israel falls far short of that ideal.” The Interviewee – Rabbi David A. Teutsch (Born 1950), Director, Center for Jewish Ethics and Wiener Professor of Contemporary Jewish Civilization, Reconstructionist Rabbinical College. Born in Salt Lake City, Utah. Ordained at HUC-JIR […]
David Weinberger, Attorney, L.A
“I feel morally responsible for everything Jews do, including Israel.” The Interviewee – David Weinberger, Attorney, Born in Europe, spent some time in east coast, grew up in OC CA. Now work in LA. In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general? […]
Gordon Fuller, Columbia, Maryland
“Israel is an independent democracy, but as a Jew held accountable in the diaspora I end up with some ‘responsibility’ whatever I think!” The Interviewee – Gordon Fuller, Columbia, Maryland. I’m a “wandering” Jew who is originally from Detroit and found a career as a Jewish communal servant in many different settings. In your opinion, what […]
Rabbi Joan Glazer Farber, Co-director of ‘Hevreh’, NY
“I am worried that the continued dominance of the Orthodox rabbinate and challenge of building a peace policy with the Palestinians will continue to push Liberal Jews away.” The Interviewee – Rabbi Joan Glazer Farber (Born 1957), Co-director of ‘Hevreh’: A Community of Adult Jewish Learners. Born in Tarrytown, NY, ordained at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of […]
Mark Fox, Businessman, London
“Israel is an independent democracy, but as a Jew held accountable in the diaspora I end up with some ‘responsibility’ whatever I think!” The Interviewee – Mark Fox (Born 1959), Businessman, London. In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general? […]
Abigail Kelman, Managing Partner, Abigail Kelman LC., St. Louis
“I feel that Israel needs to stop being an occupier and act more humanely to the Palestinians while protecting Israel – a tricky but necessary balancing act.” The Interviewee – Abigail Kelman (Born 1956), Managing Partner at the Law Offices of Abigail Kelman LC. Born and raised on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. The daughter […]
Tímea Nyerges, Head of Communications, Budapest
“People can live in another place and feel good there, although there is antisemitism and still feel that Israel is their second home.” The Interviewee – Tímea Nyerges, Head of communications, Budapest, Hungary. In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general? […]
András Hídvégi, Writer, Producer, Budapest
“I’ll support Masorti Movement in Israel to make the religious establishment more colorful.” The Interviewee – András Hídvégi, Blogger, Writer, Producer, Budapest, Hungary. In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general? “Personally: I’m making aliya with my family – […]
Rob Berg, President, Zionist Federation of New Zealand
“Whilst I do not believe that the on-going existence of the Jewish people will be determined by the existence of the State of Israel, I do believe that the destiny of both the Jewish people in Israel and the diaspora are closely inter-linked.” The Interviewee – Rob Berg (Born 1971), President of the Zionist Federation of New […]
Dr. Jane Henriques, Artist and Art-Teacher, London
“I cannot identify any more with Israel. However, I do feel morally involved to the extent that I will continue to try and do my bit from afar to create a just society in Israel and resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, as you call it.” The Interviewee – Dr. Jane Henriques PhD (Born 1944), academic, filmmaker, […]
