Miriam (1984), Senior Campaigns Officer, London, UK.
In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general?
“A lot.”
Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?
“Yes but that doesn’t mean blanket support. For me the best way to be supportive is to advocate for a just and fair peace, justice for Palestinians, and an honesty about what is happening. I find the idea of ‘Hasbara’ that is peddled to diaspora Jews repugnant and ineffective.”
Do you affiliate yourself with a specific confessional division in Judaism? What is your view regarding the dominance of the Orthodox division in Israel religious establishment?
“Reform. It makes me sick and saps at my sense that Israel is a place where I belong.”
Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict)?
“I used to. And then when they voted in successive right wing governments it really sapped how responsible I feel.”
In your opinion, what is the main thing Israelis fail to understand about the reality of being Jewish outside of Israel?
“We are a very mixed community and the reform movement is very significantly larger and stronger than in Israel.”
How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?
“Not sure.”
In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?
“Yes.”
Have you ever been to Israel? if you have, can you summarize your impression from the Israeli reality?
“Israel is a far more pluralist and ethical country than most non Jews realize. It’s modern and fun and struggling with its reality and there are many more issues it is coming to turns with beyond the conflict.”
Can you tell us a bit about the Jewish community in your hometown? Is it organized? Are there community activities?
“It’s big and pluralist and becoming increasingly left leaning.”
