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Returning from an intense week in Israel, I find myself overwhelmed by a complex mix of emotions—grief, pride, hope, and a deep sense of urgency. As participants in a seminar sponsored by the Association of Reform Zionists in America (ARZA), we had the privilege of meeting with Israeli Reform leaders from the national institutions at the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) in Jerusalem. We also heard from Knesset member Gilad Kariv, our partners at the Israel Movement for Reform and Progressive Judaism (IMPJ), and partners from the Israel Religious Action Center (IRAC). Their unwavering commitment to building a more inclusive and pluralistic state is nothing short of inspiring.

The energy in those rooms was palpable, as passionate leaders shared their struggles and triumphs, reminding me why we, as Reform Jewish women, must remain steadfast in our advocacy for religious freedom, gender equality, and the core democratic values that form the foundation of the Jewish state. The work we do is not only necessary — it is vital. It is a call to action that I carry with me, one that deepens my connection to Israel and strengthens my resolve to ensure that the future of the Jewish state reflects the ideals we cherish.

One particularly emotional experience was the weekly Havdalah led by Reform clergy. As thousands gathered in solidarity at Hostage Square in Tel Aviv to support the families of hostages, I felt the power of unity and the strength of the global Reform movement. I was personally touched to be joined during this solemn time by Erez, our former San Diego ShinShin (funded by JAFI), and Roni, a cousin from Nahalal, Israel’s first moshav (established in 1921). These relationships, both new and longstanding, remind me of the deep connections that bind us all together as a worldwide Jewish community.

We took a deep dive into the World Zionist Congress (WZC), established by Theodor Herzl in 1897, as the legislative body of the World Zionist Organization (WZO), a non-governmental entity promoting Zionism. Known as the “Parliament of the Jewish People,” the WZC consists of 500 delegates and convenes in Jerusalem every five years. Delegates exert ideological influence on both Israeli society and the global Jewish agenda while allocating resources to various organizations, including the Reform Movement in Israel. The 39th WZC elections, scheduled from March 10 to May 4, 2025, will determine the composition of delegations that will meet in Jerusalem in October 2025.

Voting in the WZC elections is the sole opportunity for North American Jews to directly influence Israeli issues. The United States delegation, the largest outside Israel, has 152 WZC delegates, with 39% representing the Reform Movement. Higher voter turnout among North American Reform Jews and allies ensures sustained financial resources and leadership positions in the national institutions including WZO, JAFI and Keren Kayemet LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF). These organizations collectively allocate nearly $1 billion annually to support Jews in Israel and worldwide. WZC elections empower Diaspora Jews to influence resource allocation and support a democratic Israel that reflects the Jewish values of pluralism, gender equality, economic justice, and peace.

As we enter the secular new year, we have an opportunity to make resolutions that not only enrich our lives but also contribute to the future of the Jewish people and Israel. Here are some resolutions to carry forward into the year ahead:

• Renew Your Commitment to Advocacy: Choose a cause  — religious pluralism, gender equality, or democratic values — and make a personal commitment to stay actively engaged. Attend events, write to elected officials, and support organizations that align with your values. Every letter, phone call, and conversation help move us toward a more inclusive Israel.
• Elevate Women’s Voices: Dedicate time and energy to supporting women’s leadership. Mentor aspiring leaders, amplify female perspectives in political discussions, or promote Jewish women’s organizations. Our collective power is a force for positive change.
• Educate and Mobilize Others: Share the importance of advocating for pluralism, gender equality, and democracy in Israel. Use your platforms to educate others about the ongoing challenges and the ways in which we can make a difference. Host events, share articles on social media, or spark conversations. It’s essential to keep the dialogue alive and accessible.
• Deepen Your Engagement with Israel: As Reform Jews, we strive for an Israel that embodies inclusivity, democracy, and respect for diverse practices. Support Israeli initiatives that advance pluralism, LGBTQ rights and gender equality; whether through ARZA, IRAC, or WRJ, our collective efforts have an impact.
• Support The Jerusalem Program, the official platform of the WZO, which states that: Zionism, the national liberation movement of the Jewish people, brought about the establishment of the State of Israel, and views a Jewish, Zionist, democratic and secure State of Israel to be the expression of the common responsibility of the Jewish people for its continuity and future.
• Get Involved with the World Zionist Congress 2025 Elections:  The political landscape in Israel, like any democracy, is in constant flux. The outcome of the WZC elections will shape Israel’s policies and direction. Reform Jews, particularly women, play a vital role in advocating for a society that honors the principles of equality and democracy. Volunteer to serve on your synagogue’s team to help “get out the vote” in 2025.

The beauty of advocacy is that it is ongoing, and we, Women of Reform Judaism, are uniquely positioned to drive meaningful change. By refocusing our energy on the core values of pluralism, gender equality, and democracy, we can help create a more inclusive and ideal Israel. Let’s carry this momentum into the new year, renewing our commitment to this vital work. Together, we can make a difference.

Vote REFORM in the WZC elections in Spring 2025.
Vote to support Reform Judaism in Israel! 

This post was initially published on the WRJ blog.