“I think that observant Jews have to learn to be more accepting of non-observant Jews and vice versa….basically, we both need to stop digging in our heels.”
The Interviewee – Avi Levinson (Born 1986), Managing Director at NextJEN. Born in Ottawa, Canada and I was raised in Toronto.
In your opinion, what importance, if any, does the existence of a Jewish state have to you personally and to Jewish people in general?
“The Jewish state is where the Torah begins. It is where our history is. The proof of our history is in the land.”
Do you feel committed in some way to defend the future existence of Israel?
“Absolutely. I am constantly advocating for Israel and we are going to be facing a generation that is completely uneducated about Israel because of apathy.”
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 consider myself an observant Torah Jew. I think that Torah is where the history of the Jewish people is and we should follow it to the best of our abilities. I think that observant Jews have to learn to be more accepting of non-observant Jews and vice versa….basically, we both need to stop digging in our heels.”
Do you feel morally responsible for Israel’s actions (such as its management of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?
“Yes and no. There are some things that are done that are definitely motivated by politics and they are decisions that I do not always stand by. At the same time, the Jewish state is an extension of us and we have to live up to the standards that are expected of a ‘Light Unto The Nations'”.
How would you describe Israel’s policy (formally and in practice) regarding its relationship with the Diaspora?
“Unfortunately, I think that most Jews don’t care one way or the other. I think the government and organizations need to do a much better job with programs like Birthright to instill a very strong sense of Jewish continuity.”
In your opinion, does Israel have an obligation to defend and help Jewish communities in need?
“Tough question but I would say yes.”
Have you ever been to Israel? if you have, can you summarize your impression from the Israeli reality?
“Yes. I lived there and have led trips to Israel. I would move back in a flash if I had a job.”
Can you tell us a bit about the Jewish community in your hometown? Is it organized? Are there any community activities?
“I live in Toronto and it is very diverse.”
