Park Avenue Synagogue Podcast Conversations with Cosgrove: The WZO Election with Yizhar Hess and the Vote for Mercaz
Apr 1, 2025
Yizhar Hess, Vice Chairman of the World Zionist Organization, emphasizes the crucial role American Jews play in the WZO elections. He discusses how voting influences Israeli affairs and the representation of non-Orthodox Judaism. Hess highlights the substantial financial impact of the Jewish National Fund and the strategic allocation of funds in addressing current challenges. The conversation calls for community engagement and voting for the MERCAZ USA slate, framing this as vital for supporting pluralistic initiatives amidst rising right-wing influences.
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WZO Empowers Global Jewish Voice
- The World Zionist Congress (WZO) allows Jews worldwide to have a vote and influence in Jewish assets and Israel's future.
- It continues Herzl's democratic platform to express diaspora views on Zionism and the State of Israel.
Shared Jewish Assets Beyond Israel
- Israel belongs both to Israelis and Jews worldwide, reflected in shared Jewish assets not owned by Israel's government.
- These assets, like the Jewish Agency, act independently to serve global Jewish needs including crisis relief.
JNF: Vital Jewish Land Asset
- Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael (Jewish National Fund) owns 17% of Israeli land and yields about $2 billion annually.
- This land and its economic fruits are owned by the Jewish people worldwide, not just the Israeli government.