“I did not visit Israel until my adulthood, it was by far one of the most remarkable and meaningful experiences of my life; the people, culture that I identified with, the country itself… everything.”
The Interviewee – Sandra Saltzman, JEN (Jewish Employment Network) Outreach Coordinator, JVS Chicago. Born in New York, reared and educated in the deep South, Savannah, GA, now living in Chicago. Work in Jewish Non profit, engaging with synagogues and Jewish organizations to help people.
In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general?
“Extremely, and of the upmost importance as a Jew and for the perpetuation of our culture, religion and value globally.”
Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?
“Yes, as best as I can.”
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?
“Was Conservative, now moving towards Reform. Judaism’s strength is I the voice of its people, and we need every voice to be dominant.“
Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict)?
“NO, I only feel that what Israel is doing is morally right.”
In your opinion, what is the main thing Israelis fail to understand about the reality of being Jewish outside of Israel?
“That we too, are Jews.”
How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?
“I have not investigated this as am not in a position to respond.”
In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?
“Yes, those without the means to do so themselves.”
Have you ever been to Israel? if you have, can you summarize your impressions from Israel?
“Yes, I am a global traveler and did not visit Israel until my adulthood, it was by far one of the most remarkable and meaningful experiences of my life; the people, culture that I identified with, the country itself… everything.”
Can you tell us a bit about the Jewish community in your hometown?
“Chicago’s Jewish community is active, supportive and engaged in bringing awareness about all issues whether through groups, synagogues, individuals, institutions of learning; it is a community that gives so that Judaism can continue to survive, grow and help those in need, provide for Israel.”
If you could ask the Israeli readers of this project a question, what would it be?
“How can we engage and unite all Jews to the importance of Israel, and non Jews to the importance of Israel’s survival.”
