On Dec. 29, 2022, a new government was sworn in in Israel, supported by a coalition of 64 out of the Knesset’s 120 members. The new government is pursuing a series of significant reforms that aim to alter the relationship between Israel’s parliament and its judicial system. The Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) felt it important to send a letter to Prime Minister Netanyhau and Opposition Leader Yair Lapid expressing our concerns. This letter stated that “The Jewish Federations of North America have a deep and abiding love for the State of Israel…..Our support for the State of Israel is unconditional and eternal.” This letter also asked for them to embrace the proposals set forth by President Herzog, to set a course for reconsideration, compromise and resolution. Following the letter from JFNA , Prime Minister Netanyahu called for negotiations and Opposition Leader Lapid wrote to the Federations expressing his agreement with our position.
Following are some important points to consider as you follow and reflect on the political situation in Israel and our work as the Jewish Federation:
The Jewish Federations of North America represents the entire Federation system and is the largest Jewish organization on the continent.
- Federations represent all Jews, from all backgrounds. We build flourishing Jewish communities – communities that are healthy, safe, educated and are deeply connected to Israel and the global Jewish people. We work on issues that directly affect our communities and have broad support across all ideological and political divides.
- Federations don’t typically become involved or speak out about political matters unless an issue is critically important to the North American Jewish community.
The essence of democracy is both majority rule and protection of minority rights.
- This is accomplished through a series of checks and balances. We understand that these will be different in each country, but a system in which a 61-vote majority of the Knesset has the final say on all matters does not provide that necessary protection. This could directly affect issues of deep concern to many Jews in North America, and will impact our work in the broader society as well. It is impossible to overstate how fundamental the case that Israel is a model democracy is to the advocacy and support for Israel in America.
We urge Israel’s leaders to fully embrace the proposals set forth by the President of Israel, Isaac Herzog, to set a course for the consideration and resolution of these issues. President Herzog has the respect and admiration of Jews around the world.
- Whatever the final resolution of these issues, this process will ensure that the views of all stakeholders are fully considered.
Donors should rest assured that Federations are and have always been good stewards of their resources.
- Federations fund a wide array of programs which support vulnerable Israelis including new immigrants, children and youth at risk, disadvantaged elderly and others from across all segments of Israeli society.
- While the debate around judicial reforms in Israel has been controversial, it does not fundamentally affect the important causes to which Jewish Federations are committed at home, in Israel, or around the world, such as saving at-risk Jews, supporting those in need, helping victims of terror, and bolstering schools, day cares, and community centers.
If you have questions or concerns about the situation in Israel please do not hesitate to call the office and we will do our best to answer your questions.
