“We aren’t all Orthodox. There is not one way to express Judiasm and live Jewishly. As more of us interact with Israel, this needs to not only be considered, it needs to be embraced.”
The Interviewee – Cantor Nancy Dubin (Born 1968), Hazzanit. Born in Fair Lawn, NJ. I grew up as a workman’s circle Jew.
In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general?
“If I have a home base, then everywhere else I go I am visiting. This difference is the difference between being a guest and a refugee, or between visiting and being homeless. I find I am more open to hosting guests than housing homeless refugees.”
Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?
“I do, as do my children. Not just by their commitment to serving in the Israeli army, but also by my personal interest and involvement in Israeli politics and policies.”
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 am a Reform Jewish Cantor. I am horrified by the stranglehold the Orthodox clergy have taken over Israeli politics and policies.”
Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict)?
“I do. I’m saddened by the latest violence from both sides.”
In your opinion, what is the main thing Israelis fail to understand about the reality of being Jewish outside of Israel?
“We aren’t all Orthodox. There is not one way to express Judaism and live Jewishly. As more of us interact with Israel, this needs to not only be considered, it needs to be embraced.”
How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?
“I think people are often not prepared for the language issues and perhaps some of that could be started before people move their lives over to Israel.”
In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?
“Yes!”
Have you ever been to Israel?
“I lived in Israel for two years. I wish I had a better handle on the Hebrew. I think there needs to be more language support in a more gentle way.“
Can you tell us a bit about the Jewish community in your hometown? Is it organized? Are there community activities?
“New York City’s Jewish community is diverse and vibrant. Israel could take a page from what we’re doing!”
