Cheryl Greenberg, (Born 1958) Paul E. Raether Distinguished Professor of History, Trinity College. Resides in Hartford Connecticut.
I grew up in several places, mostly in Westchester county, NY (right outside NYC). Grew up (pretty much) Reform, now Conservative. Atheist, politically engaged in both Jewish community and broader American community.
In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general?
“Very important to me, and I believe it is meaningful to the Jewish people both for spiritual/historical reasons and because it is a haven for Jews fleeing oppression.”
Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?
“Yes, the existence of the state of Israel. It’s present borders and political choices, no.”
Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict)?
“Yes. Israeli security issues are always couched in the ‘klal yisrael’ version of the argument. So if I’m considered a part of Israel, I have a moral obligation to work for justice and to oppose injustice there, and to encourage a future I think is most likely to keep Israel both Jewish and democratic.”
In your opinion, what is the main thing Israelis fail to understand about the reality of being Jewish outside of Israel?
“First, that a majority of American Jews don’t actually feel as if we live in diaspora in a literal, political sense, even though we acknowledge our historical diasporic status. Second, that American Jews support Israel largely because of its explicit commitment to live as a Jewish state. While security is a primary concern, many of us also believe that Israel must live up to those implied ethical obligations as well. So, many Jews are NOT prepared to defend Israeli actions or policies when it acts in ways that seem to us to violate ethical norms or are politically counter-productive. In other words, Israel is important to Jews outside of Israel largely only as much as it behaves in the ethical (and politically pragmatic) way we believe a ‘Jewish state’ should. If I could add one more thing, it would be that the majority of Jews outside Israel are not Orthodox and can’t believe their version of the religion is not acceptable in many aspects of Israeli life, like marriage, burial, and conversion.”
How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?
“It often comes across as either superior or presumptive that American Jews will defend any decision Israel makes: you have to support us because we are a Jewish state; don’t tell us to behave because other places are worse.”
In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?
“Yes, so long as it identifies itself as the homeland and protector of all Jewish people.”
Have you ever been to Israel? if you have, can you summarize your impression from the Israeli reality?
“Yes, several times. Israeli reality is more secular, more divided, more diverse than is portrayed.”
Can you tell us a bit about the Jewish community in your hometown? Is it organized? Are there community activities?
“Yes, highly organized, plenty of activities both social and political.”
Is there a question you feel should be added to the project’s questionnaire?
“Depends on what you are looking for. You might want to ask what diaspora Jews think about the Palestinian situation (the three options: one state, two states, continuation of occupation) and/or how their support for Israel might change depending on which direction Israelis choose. Or how they feel about the Orthodox control of many aspects of life in Israel. Or if they have ever considered aliyah, and why or why not.”
