Dear Philip-

After yesterday, here's what we have to say:

"Thank you, Malcolm Hoenlein and the Conference of Presidents."

Yesterday’s rejection of our bid to join the Conference validates the reason for J Street: those claiming to speak for the entire Jewish community don't in fact represent the full diversity of pro-Israel views in our community--or even its prevailing views.

We sought to bring our voice within the so-called communal tent because we believe in our community’s glorious tradition of debate and dissent.

Yesterday's vote by 22 organizations to exclude us sadly confirms that the gatekeepers of that tent don't share that belief.

Join us in thanking the Conference of Presidents for clarifying exactly why J Street exists and what’s so wrong with how the organized Jewish community conducts the conversation on Israel. Add your name to our "Thank you!" card.

Yesterday’s vote only motivates us to redouble our efforts on behalf of peace, security and justice for Israel and for Palestinians.

It reinforces our commitment to ensuring that the values of pluralism, debate and inclusion continue to be hallmarks of the Jewish community.

We appreciate the major Jewish organizations that supported our bid, including the ADL and the Conservative and Reform movements, and all those who stood up for these precious values.

But we especially thank those who voted no for confirming the urgency of our mission and boosting our energy and commitment.

Join us in saying thank you to the Conference for this clarifying moment.

We look forward to working with all our supporters--Jewish and non-Jewish--to give voice to our values and to carry forward our vision of what it means to be pro-Israel.

- J Street

© 2024 J Street

Donate Now