Both Israelis and Palestinians want and deserve to live in peace, with justice and dignity. Israelis deserve to live in a healthy and vibrant democracy. Palestinians deserve to live free from occupation.Â
Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association strongly oppose the decision of the Government of Israel to deny entry into Israel to U.S. Congressional Representatives Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib.
These demagogues sow fear and stoke racial tension. They promote an exclusivist, chauvinist white nationalism. But they will not win. Jewish history teaches us that tyranny cannot sustain itself. From Pharaoh to the Roman Emperors to the monarchs who expelled us from multiple parts of Europe, Jews have outlasted the tyrants who have sought our destruction. And we American Jews know that the only way for the Israel-America friendship to survive — and not be tossed out along with these demagogues — is to center our democratic values.
Today, ten leading organizations representing Americans who are committed to pursuing democracy, equality and peace in Israel announced the launch of the Progressive Israel Network. The new coalition will provide a strong, unified voice in support of its members’ common goals: democracy and equal rights, religious freedom and pluralism, and a two-state solution that would secure a peaceful future for Israel and end the 52-year-long occupation.
Reconstructing Judaism invites communities to show solidarity with thousands of Israelis who are taking action to try to prevent Kahanists from being allowed to enter the Knesset.
We call on our colleagues in the American Jewish community and Jewish organizations to stand for democracy and equality and join us in affirming that Kahanists have no place in the Knesset.
The Joint Israel Commission gathered in person at the Reconstructing Judaism convention. Rabbi Maurice Harris reports on their activities and next steps.Â
Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association condemn and are saddened by the recent terror attacks by Palestinian extremists against Israeli soldiers, police and civilians in the West Bank and Jerusalem.
Reconstructing Judaism and the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association condemn the terrorist attack that killed two Israeli civilians. Terrorism is never justified and will not help end the Occupation of the West Bank, nor will it pave the way to a lasting, fair peace agreement. May those who work for peace, justice, and reconciliation throughout the region be strengthened in their work and their ideals. Â
Serving as central organization of the Reconstructionist movement
Training the next generation of groundbreaking rabbis
Modeling respectful conversations on pressing Jewish issues
Curating original, Jewish rituals, and convening Jewish creatives
