“My outsider’s view is that it is not ‘the Orthodox denomination’ that dominates Israel’s religious establishment but a certain limited Orthodox crowd.”

The Interviewee – B’ (Born 1973), have lived around the world, currently call Brooklyn, NY home. Asked 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?

“I believe it is of crucial important to the Jewish people, and I know it is extremely important to me personally.”

Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?

“Yes.“

Do you affiliate yourself with a specific denomination in Judaism? What is your view regarding the dominance of the Orthodox denomination in Israel religious establishment?

“I am affiliated with a particular movement officially, as a member of a Conservative synagogue. However, I take important teachings from all strands of Judaism, and I absolutely believe that the Orthodox domination in Israel is unfair, unjust and not healthy for the health of the future of the state of Israel, or of Judaism.“

Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict)?

“No.”

In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?

“Yes.”

Have you ever been to Israel? if you have, can you summarize your impression from the Israeli reality?

“Yes, many times. Israel is a place of many contradictions: I feel both more foreign and more at home there than anywhere else.“

Can you tell us a bit about the Jewish community in your hometown?

“Very large, diverse, fragmented, future oriented, powerful.”