A main theme of the recent annual meeting of the World Zionist Organization (WZO) in Jerusalem was a
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Part 2 – Our Reform Values in Action
Early morning in Jerusalem
A main theme of the recent annual meeting of the World Zionist Organization (WZO) in Jerusalem was a call for unity among the Jewish people at this time of crisis.
And there were many resolutions where all factions voted in support.
These include:
Thanking, supporting and sending love and prayers to the brave IDF soldiers, security forces and their families; displaced Israelis; bereaved families; and the hostages and their families
Supporting youth and young adults world-wide, especially Jewish students who are threatened on campus
Enhancing the bonds between Israelis and global Jewry, including emissaries from Israel to the Diaspora
Encouraging solidarity missions to visit the Western Negev
Supporting the goals of Israel to eradicate Hamas and other terrorist groups in Gaza
Supporting the release of all the hostages
Paying tribute to all Israeli women for their contributions to the war against Hamas, in combat and in the community
Strengthening the status of women and lifting up women’s voices
Combatting antisemitism around the world
Condemning the UN for its refusal to denounce Hamas for sexual violence against women
Condemning and asking for the dismantling of UNRWA
Holding Iran accountable for the atrocities of October 7
Strengthening of Aliyah, especially in countries where there is rampant antisemitism
Rehabilitation of the Western Negev and strengthening the security of vulnerable communities
Every vote was essential!
Our global Reform Zionist organization (ARZENU) worked effectively with the Conservatives and other liberal groups to promote the principles of equality and pluralism that are so important to us. But in some cases, the resolutions passed with very tight margins.
Our faction won on these issues in spite of strong opposition:
Promoting equality of the LGBT community and other historically marginalized communities in Israel (vote: 79-74)
The need for a constitution which will regulate the relationship between the judiciary, the legislature and the government and protect human rights within the State of Israel (vote: 88-68)
Remedying discrimination of the Nation State Law against the Druze community (vote:101-56)
Welcoming olim with a spirit of equality and full inclusion (vote: 79-74)
The urgent need for public transportation on Shabbat (vote: 85-66)
Message from the Co-Chairs of ARZENU, Shoshana Dweck and Harry Levy:
"At this difficult time for Israel and the Jewish people, we found unity in support of the hostages, college students and victims of antisemitism around the world, and for the women of Israel. Building on our success in May 2023 at the Extraordinary Congress, together with a strong and united coalition that stood against right-wing forces, the world-wide Reform Movement led the way with resolutions that ensure continued progress in Israel on the values of human rights, pluralism and inclusion that make Israel stronger, more resilient, and safer."
We continue to work for a stronger, more resilient Israel on behalf of the whole Jewish people.
ARZA Canada is a partner in fulfilling this vision.
Let’s work for a better future for all Israelis.
This is where YOU come into the picture!
Join ARZA Canada for 2023-2024
Add your voice and be part of this important partnership with Israel.
Support our friends and colleagues at the Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism (IMPJ) and the Israel Religious Action Center (IRAC).
Donate Nowto help Israelis on the ground working for our Reform values.
L’shalom,
Lee Weisser, President
You can help Israel from home!
Volunteer as an online English language mentor through English B’Yachad.
Create new possibilities for young Israeli adults from underserved Israeli communities. Support their economic empowerment to contribute to Israel’s success.
Sunday April 14 @ 1:00 pm - 6:00 pm ET, In person in Toronto and virtual
Presented by Canadian Friends of Peace Now, JSpaceCanada, and the New Israel Fund of Canada Sunday, April 14th, 1:00-6:00 PM Eastern / 10:00 AM-3:00 PM Pacific In-person in Toronto (Courtyard by Toronto Marriott Downtown) and on Zoom Advance registration is required. Register by March 29th for early bird ticket prices!
