The split between the ultra-orthodox and secular Jews must be repaired

MAY 21, 2020 22:55

Bike-riders and synagogue-goers. ‘I don’t really miss doing the full ultra-Orthodox Yom Kippur because I don’t really feel the need to check off all the boxes or anything. For me it’s more important to just commemorate the day and have the feel of Yom Kippur,’ says Dovid. (photo credit: REUTERS) — Bike-riders and synagogue-goers. ‘I don’t really miss doing the full ultra-Orthodox Yom Kippur because I don’t really feel the need to check off all the boxes or anything. For me it’s more important to just commemorate the day and have the feel of Yom Kippur,’ says Dovid.

(photo credit: REUTERS)

An open letter to the Ministry of Diaspora Affairs.

Dear Minister Yankelevich,

Congratulations on your position as Israel’s new Minister of Diaspora Affairs. In my opinion, this ministry sits alongside the Finance and Health Ministries as one of the most important positions in the Israeli government.

Since Israel’s establishment in 1948, the most critical political position has been the Ministry of Defense. No doubt our country has its external security challenges (Iran, Syria, and others), but it is now your job to secure us from the inside.

I am sure that as a new politician you want to ease into your role, but I urge you to dive into one of Israel’s biggest challenges: the ever-increasing split between Israel and world Jewry.

Since you are a haredit (ultra-Orthodox) woman, you may have observed the divide between ultra-Orthodox Jews and the secular society here in israel. This is a split that we must repair and I do believe that we are trying. Our society is working to traverse the gap, with organizations like Gesher (Hebrew for bridge), Shira Banki’s Way and others which have taken up the mantle to educate about different societies within Israel.

Unfortunately, over the past few years, Diaspora Jews have been neglected; little attention has been paid to their plight due to our internal rifts.

I appreciate Birthright’s work – introducing Israel to young Jews – and different Israel Alliance organizations that talk about the importance of connecting all Jews.

But it is not enough. We must reach out and demonstrate to people of all ages that we truly are a united family. We must show that all ways of practicing Judaism are valued and all are welcome here in the homeland for all Jews.

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Our job is not to help Diaspora Jews in ways that align with our own interests. We must help them. Period.

Dear Minister, over the past few years, hands were extended, statements were declared and conferences were held, all repeating the same message: Jews from all over the world, we love you. But talking points – rosy as they might be – are insufficient. It is time for action.

As we learn from Shammai the Sage, “Say little and do much.” Talk is cheap, actions are of immeasurable value.

The time has come to offer a true embrace to our brothers and sisters and reaffirm their place with us through recognition of their Jewish identities. Let everyone feel represented by having the role of Chief Rabbi be given for multiple streams of Judaism. Let us recognize those who want to throw their lot in with the Jewish people through liberal Jewish conversions. Let us help them become a part of our past, present and future story.

All Jews deserve to feel that they are welcome here, and not just with a nice smile and “hello” at Ben-Gurion when it reopens (soon, hopefully). Nobody would dare offer liberal Jews a folding chair when they visit the Knesset Plenary. Why should they be subjected to an uncomfortable and undignified plaza at the Western Wall?

I believe that the faltering connection between Israel and Diaspora Jews is one of our country’s greatest threats. Women of the Wall, in partnership with other pluralistic organizations, has hope that Israel does care about them and that united, we could bring about positive social change.

As you enter into office, please know that we are eager to work with you to foster peace and acceptance throughout the Jewish world. I trust that you will work diligently to reestablish Israel as a state for all Jews and be a light among nations.

The author is executive director of Women of the Wall.