Most Jews have at least heard of the World Zionist Congress. They know that it had something to do with Theodore Herzl and played a critical role in creating the State of Israel. What many don’t know is that the World Zionist Congress still makes very important decisions affecting Israel and the Jewish community around the world. And, until April 30, 2015, you have an opportunity to determine what this congress will look like. The cost is only $5 and you can even vote online!
The World Zionist Congress holds elections every 5 years to create a representative body of Jewish leaders from around the world to guide the vision of Israel. The Congress decides which organizations and government partnerships should receive financial and organizational support (literally millions of dollars each year) in the areas of Jewish education, social services, and even whether or not to build more settlements in the West Bank. Additionally, it oversees major institutions in Israel, including the Jewish Agency and the Jewish National Fund.
As a Reform Jew, it was pretty easy to decide which slate I would support. In fact, I was so excited about the slate that I became a part of it! The Association of Reform Zionists of America (ARZA): Representing Reform Judaism connects Reform Jews and congregations to Israel through education and experiences in Israel in order to make the Jewish state a cornerstone of our Jewish identity. While ARZA is directly connected with the Reform Movement, our slate will create a better Israel for all its inhabitants. As the largest Jewish denomination in North America, Reform Judaism provides Jews with numerous opportunities to connect with Judaism through varying levels of observance and different kinds of practice. Even among all of these different ways of connecting to Jewish life, Reform Judaism emphasizes the values of equality, pluralism, and peace in all facets of the world, including policies in Israel.
I’m voting for ARZA because I believe in women’s rights and gender equality. Our slate wants to see men and women given equal opportunities throughout society, including religious practice, (like the ability to pray freely at the Western Wall).
I’m voting for ARZA because I believe in religious pluralism. Our slate believes in equality for all denominations of Judaism, as well as all religions.
I’m voting for ARZA because I believe all people have the right to peace and security. Our slate has made a commitment to continue working toward a two-state solution between Israelis and Palestinians.
These Jewish values are central to me as an American, a Jew, and as a human being. I’m excited to be able to put these values into practice by voting for ARZA and by being a part of the ARZA slate in the World Zionist Congress. If you also believe in these values, even if you’re not connected to the Reform Movement, and want to see them truly appreciated in Israel, I encourage you to click here to vote for us as well.
As American Jews, we have a special connection to Israel. While we often bicker over aspects of Israeli politics, voting in the WZC elections is a concrete way to have our voices heard. You have the opportunity to directly impact Israel. Take it!
Evan Traylor is a student at the University of Kansas.
