Israel

The Persistence of Vision

One reason I haven’t posted much lately–other than too much stuff going on in general–is that I’m "blogmeister" for a new blog from the World Zionist Organization:

"The Persistence of Vision: Israel at Sixty," which you can see at www.israelatsixty.org.il

The WZO’s announcement of the new blog follows.  Scroll down to my post to read about my views on "The Persistence of Vision."

As we approach Kaf-tet b’November*, the Department for Zionist Activities is pleased to announce the launch of its “6 Months to 60” campaign with its new blog:

The Persistence of Vision: Israel at 60.   www.IsraelAtSixty.org.il

This forum brings together five experts in their respective fields who share their own perspectives on the meaning of Jewish statehood. What unites them is their common belief that vision has always constituted the heart of the Zionist enterprise, and that it continues to beat vigorously today. Here they will reflect on the significance of 60 years of Israel’s existence, how the reality that has emerged compares to the 2000-year-old dream, how to handle the disappointments, and how to work towards fulfillment of the promise. Readers are invited to turn the blog into a dialog by posting their own opinions and comments. They are also encouraged to take advantage of numerous links to additional resources for further learning and for ideas for celebrating 60 years of Israel’s independence.

Our hope is that this blog will stimulate six months of heightened reflection on the contemporary significance of Israel and Zionism, as well as on the relationship of Jews everywhere to the Jewish state. Together with the rest of Am Yisrael we are looking forward to a joyous celebration of Israel’s 60th birthday, but we want to make sure as well that it will be an occasion infused with substance. Much will remain to be done “the morning after,” and the more the task is discussed, and the more it is understood, the better will be the outcome. 

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*Kaf Tet b’November (November 29, 1947) is the day on which the U.N. voted to partition Palestine and establish a Jewish state.

Our Bloggers / Their Views

David Breakstone, veteran Israel educator and member of the Zionist Executive, will be delving into The Jerusalem Program, probing the essence of Zionism today.

Gil Troy, Professor of History at McGill University and author of Why I Am a Zionist, will be reflecting on the contemporary significance of Israel and Zionism.

Neal Lazarus, internationally acclaimed expert of Israel advocacy and Director of AwesomeSeminars.com, will be sharing his insights on delivering the message.

David Brinn, Editorial Director of Israel21c, will be highlighting opportunities to convey the wonders of “the other Israel,” the one that exists beyond the conflict.

Barry Leff, business entrepreneur, rabbi, and recent arrival in Israel will be reflecting on the Jewish state he is discovering as a new immigrant, 60 years after independence. 

Barry Leff

Rabbi Barry (Baruch) Leff is a dual Israeli-American business executive, teacher, speaker and writer who divides his time between Israel and the US.

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