GA offers Jewish journey to participants

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Some 3,000 people, representing the Jewish community from across the United States, gathered in the nation’s capital Nov. 13-15 for the Jewish Federations of North America General Assembly (GA). This year’s theme was “Jewish Journeys Start at the Federation.”  Attendees went on “journeys” related to the concerns and needs of the community they serve and represent, from philanthropy and leadership to Israel and social justice.

Less than a week after the national elections, there was much concern about the outcome. The organizers of the GA took into consideration the election when planning the conference. Throughout the conference, there were workshops and breakouts that included discussions on the election. One thing was certain: Nothing could be certain. The conclusion of most discusions: We will have to wait and see what happens in the coming months. Adding fuel to the fire was the announcement of the appointment of Steve Bannon, a controversial “Alt-Right” figure, as “chief strategist” for the Trump administration.

There was much discussion throughout the conference on the direction of America and Israel. This included a plenary with Chuck Todd of NBC’s “Meet the Press.” Todd moderated two separate panels. Topics included the recent election, social justice issues and, of course, Israel.

Perhaps the highlight of the conference was the brief interview with Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg. Affectionately known as “The Notorious RGB,”  she spoke about the outcome of the election as well as the need to move forward in choosing the next Supreme Court justice. She told the audience that she would do her best to remain healthy for a long time to come.

Breakout sessions were designed to meet specific interests of the  diverse groups of attendees.  Topics included Hillel, social justice such as race relations and confronting anti-Semitism, as well as disabilities and inclusion. Attendees could focus on exploring Judaism and Jewish education. They could concentrate on philanthropy and new philanthropic strategies as well as on meeting the needs of the Jewish community. One particular focus was engaging the younger Jewish community, including millennials.

The issue of Israel and peace in the region was ongoing throughout the GA. There were three sessions on Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS). It was pointed out that a number of states, including Rhode Island, have passed legislation to combat BDS. BDS and anti-Semitism on college campuses across the country were a significant concern.

Pluralism in Israel was another topic raised and discussed in a few breakout sessions. It was even discussed when Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the conference.  Implementing an equalitarian prayer space as well as civil marriage as it relates to faith were a concern.   In his brief remarks, the prime minister said it would take time to find common ground, but the country is moving forward on a settlement of the issues.

Approximately 75 GA attendees stayed an extra day to meet with the Israel Action Network (IAN).  The purpose of this one-and-a-half-day meeting was to discuss the issues of BDS as well as campus concerns and anti-Semitism.

Next year the GA is scheduled for  Nov. 12-14 in Los Angeles California.

MARTY COOPER is the community relations director for the Jewish Alliance.