“Israeli Philharmonic played at Severance Hall in Cleveland, Ohio. I was moved by the diversity in the Philharmonic. From bearded percussionists to kippah srugah in the strings and many others made up a diverse group who played HaTikvah and moved the audience to tears.”
The Interviewee – Susan Borison, (Born 1961) Owner of Your Teen Magazine. Resident of Akron, Ohio.
In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general?
“An importance that is hard to put into words. I have two siblings and two in-law siblings living in Israel with many nieces and nephews. I have lived in Israel. My husband also. Two kids went on gap year programs. I get to live my life in America because of the existence of the state of Israel.”
Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?
“Of course. Both with time and money.”
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?
“Modern Orthodox. But I believe that every Jew should enjoy respect and validation in whichever way he or she chooses to practice Judaism.“
Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict)?
“On some level yes. I have always believed that as Jews and Israelis, we hold ourselves to a higher standard of morality.“
In your opinion, what is the main thing Israelis fail to understand about the reality of being Jewish outside of Israel?
“That Israel matters so much to us.”
How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?
“No opinion.“
In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?
“Jews have an obligation, no matter where they live. Israel as the Jewish state–of course.”
Have you ever been to Israel?
“I’ve been many many times.”
What was your best experience of Israeli culture in the past year (book, music, TV, movie, theater etc.)?
“Israeli Philharmonic played at Severance Hall in Cleveland, Ohio. I was moved by the diversity in the Philharmonic. From bearded percussionists to kippah srugah in the strings and many others made up a diverse group who played HaTikvah and moved the audience to tears.”
Can you tell us a bit about the Jewish community in your hometown?
“Very active, committed, philanthropic.”
