Beyond Politics: A Vision for the 39th World Zionist Congress

After much anticipation, the 39th World Zionist Congress is upon us.

The last time I wrote in this forum, I was struggling with how to process the terrible news of October 7th. Although I’ve contemplated writing since, I honestly couldn’t bring myself to do so. In the context of all that had happened, did anything I would say actually matter?

Even throughout the (at times) fiery election season in the AZM, I couldn’t bring myself to write. Sure, there was plenty to say, but I felt that in light of everything happening in Israel, my time was best spent working on myself, improving my relationship with G-d, and praying for the soldiers and captives.

Now, however, with G-d’s tremendous kindness, our hostages are home. (While we await the arrival of all remaining bodies, the pain has started to heal.) And so, as I head to Jerusalem for the Congress, I’ve decided that now is the time to return.

Five years ago, I found myself an alternate in my first Congress. However, thanks to COVID, it was held virtually. I can still picture myself hunkered down in my rental car in chilly Plattsburgh, New York, midway through a business trip, as we hashed out our faction’s strategy and voting plans over Zoom. Confusion was thick in the air; this was our party’s debut, and the virtual setup only amplified the chaos—no handshakes, no quick side chats with friends from other parties, just dropped wifi connections that left us all on edge.

Then, I had the privilege to attend the Extraordinary Congress two years ago, where for the first time, we had the opportunity to see up close how the process works. We were still the “new kids,” and still a small party.

For me, our mission was clear: This is not about money, it’s not about funding. It is about one thing only—making a kiddush Hashem, and following the Torah in every decision we make. I did not expect to change many minds, but I knew that no matter what, I would act with respect toward those who disagreed with me. As the saying goes, “we can agree to disagree.”

Over the past few months, elections in many of the countries were at times very complex, and there was a lot of distrust—both from the voters and from the many parties running for coveted seats. That is now past us.

I am cognizant of the fact that as with every parliamentary body, this 39th Congress too will be at times heated. It is to be expected; that is what democracy is all about. Heaven knows, as the United States enters its 27th day of a government shutdown, democracy can be messy.

But as President Obama said in a 2010 press conference, in a democracy “power rests not with those of us in elected office, but with the people we have the privilege to serve.”

Election season has come and gone. The time for fighting over the results too has come to an end. This Tuesday we will convene the 39th World Zionist Congress. It is my hope that despite the tense elections and at times strong differences on policy, ultimately the Congress will be conducted democratically, and that the will of the voters is respected.

I know that I will do my part.