“I do feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions. I heard that there is so much poverty and women who are sex slaves and soldiers getting away with killing Palestinians. I’m embarrassed every time I read about another of these incidents.”
The Interviewee – Rabbi Rachel Bat-Or (Born 1945), Director of the JQ International Warmline, a helpline for LGBTQ Jews, our families, and allies. I was born in Hartford CT. I’ve always worked for non-profit organizations or I had my own psychotherapy practice. I am committed to social justice for all those who are disenfranchised and marginalized. Lives in Los Angeles, California.
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 crucially important to me. It’s a place I know I am always welcomed to live if I need to leave here. I have lived in Israel for several years as a rabbinic student and have dear friends there.”
Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?
“Yes, absolutely.”
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 am a Conservative Rabbi. I think the Orthodox dominance in Israel is a major problem for Israel and the Diaspora. We can’t let the minority dictate what the majority do.”
Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict)?
“I do feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions. I heard that there is so much poverty and women who are sex slaves and soldiers getting away with killing Palestinians. I’m embarrassed every time I read about another of these incidents.”
In your opinion, what is the main thing Israelis fail to understand about the reality of being Jewish outside of Israel?
“That we may have obligations outside of Israel that keep us from making aliyah.”
How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?
“I’m not sure I know what that is except that we are supposed to accept what Israel does without criticizing it.”
In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?
“Not communities outside of Israel. That’s our obligation.”
Have you ever been to Israel? if you have, can you summarize your impression from the Israeli reality?
“I loved living in Israel when I was there. Even with all of it’s imperfections, I felt like I was home no matter where I was.”
Can you tell us a bit about the Jewish community in your hometown? Is it organized? Are there community activities?
“I live in Los Angeles home of half a million Jews. I am firmly integrated into both the Jewish community and the LGBTQ Jewish community. I spend a lot of time helping Jewish communities understand the reality of LGBTQ Jews and why it’s important for us to feel included. I am a member of two communities, one of which is LGBTQ.”
