Voting has begun for the 39th World Zionist Congress, allowing American Jews to influence Israel’s future. The election features 21 diverse slates and key issues including funding for Jewish causes and relations with the Diaspora. With significant representation up for grabs, voter participation is crucial for ensuring a diverse and democratic outcome, reflecting the broader Jewish community’s perspectives.
Voting has commenced for the 39th World Zionist Congress (WZC), offering American Jews an unprecedented opportunity to influence Israel’s future. Established by Theodore Herzl 128 years ago, this congress will shape the balance of power within the Zionist movement, affecting over $5 billion in funding for Jewish causes and institutions like the Jewish Agency and the Jewish National Fund, which manages a significant portion of Israeli land.
Eligible voters include all Jewish adults in the United States, who may cast their votes from March 10 to May 4, provided they adhere to a set of Zionist principles and pay a registration fee of $5. This year’s elections are marked by intense ideological clashes between liberal and right-wing Orthodox factions, each vying to steer the future of Zionist institutions amidst crucial issues including religious pluralism, educational funding, settlement growth, and Israel-Diaspora relations.
Rabbi Josh Weinberg, leading the Reform movement’s slate, emphasized the gravity of the election, stating, “This election is about nothing less than the soul of the State of Israel and the Jewish people.” The opportunity for American Jews to influence fundamental aspects of Jewish statehood is a critical democratic process that reflects a diversity of thought.
The upcoming congress comprises 152 American representatives, significantly more than the 15 slates in the previous election. These elected individuals will join 173 representatives from the global Jewish community, as well as 200 representatives chosen by Israeli political parties based on parliamentary representation.
Among the 21 slates participating this year are Achdut Israel, focused on supporting Israeli troops and settlement; AID Coalition, aligned with mass protests against Israel’s governance; and American Forum for Israel, rooted in pro-settlement advocacy. Other notable slates include Am Yisrael Chai, catering to younger Jewish professionals; and ANU: A New Union, advocating for progressive policies such as a two-state solution.
Further slates present diverse viewpoints, such as Beyachad for Russian-speaking Jews, Hatikvah supporting progressive values, and Herut North America promoting a strong, unapologetic Zionism. Notably, the Jewish Future slate represents a centrist liberal approach, whereas Vote Reform, having gained the largest share in the previous election, seeks to foster a vibrant, democratic Israeli society.
Despite a lean towards liberal ideologies among American Jews, voter turnout remains a concern. In the last election, only 125,000 of the nearly 6 million eligible American Jewish adults participated. Yizhar Hess, vice chairman of the World Zionist Organization, has termed the low voter turnout a “shande,” advocating for greater participation to ensure diverse representation. Hess continues to engage with communities to raise awareness and encourage voting in this critical election.
The 39th World Zionist Congress has opened voting, presenting a crucial opportunity for American Jews to impact Israel’s future. With significant representation and diverse slates advocating for various ideologies, voter participation is vital for authentic representation. As the election unfolds, the pursuit of power among liberal and right-wing factions underscores the importance of these decisions for the Jewish community globally. Increased engagement from the diaspora is essential to reflect their collective voice in shaping the future of Zionism.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
