American Jews: Lowering the Separation of the Church and State Wall?

Publication Date: January 2000

Publisher: Jewish Communal Service Association of North America

Author(s): Murray Friedman

Research Area: Culture and religion; Law and ethics

Keywords: Community Relations; Political Behavior; Religious Beliefs

Type: Report

Coverage: United States

Abstract:

In the period after World War II, Jews and Jewish groups adopted a strong separationist position on First Amendment issues in line with their broader effort to obtain full inclusion in the society. In recent years, however, significant changes have occurred within the Jewish community and in the general society that should cause Jews and their civic bodies to review this absolutist approach. The urban crisis has caused some to look to religious bodies to partner with government to find solutions. New initiatives cited have included vouchers that permit parents to use government monies to send their children to private and public schools and "charitable choice, " an amendment to 1996 welfare reform legislation that provides public funds directly to churches, mosques, and synagogues for social welfare purposes.