“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.

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 the centre of the Jewish World in my opinion and is the engine behind Jewish Peoplewhood. Our future as a people depends on our connection to Israel and Israel’s connection with us.”

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

“Of course, very strongly.”

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 don’t feel affiliated with any particular denomination.“

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

“Yes, I do feel morally responsible. However, I recognize the limitations of my actions in implementing that moral responsibility in that Israel is a democracy elected by people who may not share my views and who have a right to vote which I do not.“

In your opinion, what is the main thing Israelis fail to understand about the reality of being Jewish outside of Israel?

“They fail to fully comprehend the meaning of Jewish Peoplehood, and as such fail to really understand our interdependence and connectivity. They pay lip service to it but don’t take it seriously enough.”

How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?

“Lot’s of high sounding words but very little real action. Israeli political leaders have a very shallow and often cynical understanding of the Diaspora. They always take the superficial route and never take the time to really connect. Their views are often distorted by a strange collection of gate-keepers that block authentic communication.“

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

“Absolutely.”

Have you ever been to Israel? if you have, can you summarize your impressions from Israel?

“I’m there five times a year. It’s an amazing country constantly in the process of inventing itself.”

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

“I’m living in Toronto…a vibrant growing Jewish community of 200,000 which understands more than most the critical role Israel plays in this Jewish community’s identity.”

If you could ask the Israeli readers of this project a question, what would it be?

“Understanding that with leadership comes responsibility, how can you honestly and sincerely demonstrate your leadership to the entire Jewish people, and not just the Israeli electorate?”