Israel and American Jewry: A Search for New Relationships

Publication Date: January 1996

Publisher: Jewish Agency for Israel

Author(s): Steven M. Cohen; Charles S. Liebman

Research Area: Culture and religion; Social conditions

Keywords: Diaspora Relations; Policy; Fundraising and Philanthropy; Israel Attachment

Type: Brief

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

The authors suggest that there is a growing indifference between American and Israeli Jews. This troubled relationship has come about because Israel no longer requires the financial and political assistance it once did, and because American Jews no longer feel compelled to offer support. The authors argue that this previous "mobilized model" of political advocacy and philanthropic activism is unlikely to return, and that new models must be developed based on the values of American Jews. They suggest several possible policy models for constructing meaningful and enduring cultural relationships between Israel and American Jewry.