October 30, 2019 -
As the largest Jewish Movement in North America, we remain committed to a democratic and pluralistic Israel, and two states for two peoples. Accordingly, we emphatically and continually oppose all land acquisition by the Jewish National Fund (KKL) outside the sovereign borders of the State of Israel, known as the Green Line. The activity of the Zionist institutions must reflect and support a broad consensus of the Jewish people and Israeli society.
We recently learned that a company owned by KKL made several significant land purchases in different areas around the West Bank – including particularly sensitive areas. These purchases were made by KKL against the principles of transparency and proper management, deceiving the board of directors and most senior leaders in the organization – and bypassing the entity charged with land purchases, currently chaired by one of our representatives.
Having discovered these purchases, we are insisting on a full and comprehensive investigation to be carried out by an external independent body, not associated with KKL.
We have long cherished our relations with the KKL (which is separate from the North American Jewish National Fund), but these revelations require that we revise our relations until these matters are fully rectified and we are certain that this cannot happen again. Consequently, we have declined to accept a major sponsorship proposal from KKL for the upcoming URJ Biennial in Chicago in December, the largest gathering of Jews in North America.
As a Movement, we will continue to be guided by our vision of a just and peaceful State of Israel.
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About the Union for Reform Judaism
The Union for Reform Judaism (URJ) builds community at every level—from the way we collaborate with congregations, organizations, and individuals to how we make connections across North America to advance contemporary and inclusive Jewish life. Providing vision and voice to transform the way people connect to Judaism, we help congregations stay relevant and innovative, motivate more young Jews to embrace Jewish living, agitate for a more progressive society, and foster meaningful connections to Israel.
Founded in 1873, URJ has grown into the largest and most powerful force in North American Jewish life, with nearly 850 member congregations and work that inspires, connects, and educates millions of people. Our legacy, reach, leadership, and vision mean that we can unite thousands of years of tradition with a modern, evolving Judaism to strengthen Jewish communities today and for future generations.
Visit us at www.URJ.org to learn about our social justice initiatives, camps and programs for young Jews, services for congregations and communities, and how you can work with us to create a more just, whole, and compassionate world. Enjoy related content at ReformJudaism.org and connect with URJ on Twitter and Facebook.
