“I think that as a Jew living in the diaspora you do not have any other choice. Eventually people will ask/demand an ‘explanation/justification’ to Israel’s actions (regardless if you support Israel’s actions or not).”

The Interviewee – A. Lives in Montreal. Asked to remain anonymous.

In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general?

“It’s a place we call ‘home away from home’. It is that place that although some Jews have never set foot in, they have it in their hearts. It is that place that although we can be so upset about its administration and their actions (or lack of), we will still love unconditionally like a child. It is that place that every Jew knows, that if the unimaginable might happen again, this is where they will seek refuge.”

Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?

“Yes, by advocating for it out loud, and making sure Israel and its gets a fair representation when the topic is raised and ignorance and hatred is spread.”

Do you affiliate yourself with a specific denomination in Judaism? What is your view regarding the dominance of the Orthodox denomination in Israel religious establishment?

“I grew up in a modern orthodox house, but myself I do not practice it (other than occasional Shabbat family dinners and attending synagogue (at least once) during the High Holidays.”

Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict)?

“Yes, I think that as a Jew living in the diaspora you do not have any other choice. Eventually people will ask/demand an ‘explanation/justification’ to Israel’s actions (regardless if you support Israel’s actions or not). This is why it is so important to educate as many young diaspora Jews on the most current affairs in Israel. Because sooner or later, they will all be put on the spot one day to ‘justify’ Israel’s actions.”

In your opinion, what is the main thing Israelis fail to understand about the reality of being Jewish outside of Israel?

“I think a lot of Israelis think diaspora Jews ‘owe them’ something for having to serve the army and protect the country so that they have a place to run to if another Hitler wakes up one day.”

How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?

“I have seen a lot of exchanges of young students, professionals of all fields, and politicians (promoting their agenda of course 😉
I think the relationship is alive and there.“

In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?

“Yes, the obligation is mutual. Advocacy and financial support from diaspora Jews towards Israel. While Israel is here as well to make sure ‘its people’ are out of harms way.”

Have you ever been to Israel? if you have, can you summarize your impressions from Israel?

“I grew up there and served in the military. It is a the place where people connect in their heart of hearts. It is a place of great intensity for good or bad. It will always home for me.“

Can you tell us a bit about the Jewish community in your hometown?

“Montreal’s Jewish community is vivid. It shrunk up until recent years when many French Jews started immigrating here. A few Jewish schools and synagogues got closed in recent years. But we hope for this trend to reverse itself in the near future.“