“For the Jewish people, I think Israel is a source of pride (most of the time), a source of consternation when we don’t understand or agree with her leadership, and a rallying point behind which most of stand faithfully.”
The Interviewee – Debra Polsky (Born 1954), Executive Director, Dallas Jewish Historical Society. Born in New York, grew up in Tennessee, lived in Omaha, San Francisco and Dallas.
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 state of Israel continues to be a beacon of hope and refuge for Jews all over the world. When I’m there, I feel at home and comfortable, and often wish I could find a way to spend more time there. For the Jewish people, I think Israel is a source of pride (most of the time), a source of consternation when we don’t understand or agree with her leadership, and a rallying point behind which most of stand faithfully.”
Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?
“Absolutely, although I’m never sure just what that will entail.”
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?
“While I belong to a Traditional synagogue, I find things to appreciate in each branch. I was raised in a Conservative congregation and have been a Jewish professional in many situations (camp, youth organization, JCC, Federation, JCRC, and more) throughout my life.
“I think Israel has to find a way to retain the fundamental Jewish character of the state, while diminishing the influence of the ultra-Orthodox in legal, educational and political matters.“
Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict)?
“Not really, no. I don’t vote there, I’m not a citizen who elects Israel’s leaders, who make those decisions. Am I upset or disappointed sometimes with the actions of Israel’s leadership and illegal acts by its citizens? Absolutely.”
In your opinion, what is the main thing Israelis fail to understand about the reality of being Jewish outside of Israel?
“That Americans can’t see the world through Israeli eyes, no matter how hard we try. Unless you have lived there, you don’t get what it’s like to live under constant threat, to live in a society so divided by geography, nationality, religion, denomination, and army service. Being Jewish outside of Israel is completely different. Our national calendar is not Jewish, our court system isn’t Jewish, our multi-party political system is not Jewish.”
How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?
“I’m reminded of a book written in the late 80’s about the relationship between Israeli and American Jews. It was called, ‘With Friends Like You . . .’ I’m pretty sure that the Israeli government would like Jews in Diaspora to support it’s policies and advocate for Israel, regardless of each individual’s personal feelings. I also think that many Israelis think we should all move to Israel and put ourselves where our money is. Personally, I believe Israel should stay out of Diaspora politics.“
In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?
“Yes, definitely.“
Have you ever been to Israel? if you have, can you summarize your impressions from Israel?
“Yes, about a dozen times. Warm, harsh, direct, confusing, spiritual, and beautiful.“
Can you tell us a bit about the Jewish community in your hometown?
“60K Jews, variety of denominations, many unaffiliated, dates back to the 1860s, large Reform population, philanthropic, assimilated and yet also a growing Modern Orthodox population.”
If you could ask the Israeli readers of this project a question, what would it be?
“Will you make any moves to change your political party system to lessen the power (by being necessary for coalitions) of the extreme right party?”
