Leonard Dinnerstein (1934), Born in New York City. Son of Abraham and Lillian (Kubrik) Dinnerstein. Professor Emeritus of history and former director of Judaic Studies in University of Arizona. His books include The Leonard Frank Case, America and the Survivors of the Holocaust, and Antisemitism in America. Vita.
In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state has to you personally and to Jewish people in general?
“It is a place where any Jew can go to find sanctuary.”
Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?
“In some way, yes. How, I don’t know.”
Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict)?
“No.”
In your opinion, what is the main thing Israelis fail to understand about the reality of being Jewish outside of Israel?
“How happy Jews can be elsewhere and how secure they can feel elsewhere.”
How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?
“I don’t know.”
In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?
“No.”
Have you ever been to Israel?
“Yes, several times. Jerusalem reminded me on my boyhood in the Bronx.”
If an Israeli tourist should ever come across your hometown, which experience should he/she not miss?
“See the Desert Museum.”
Is there a question you feel should be added to the project’s questionnaire?
“Yes: what do Jews around the world think of Israel’s policies toward an Arab state.”
