The World Zionist Congress and the Israeli American Community

The World Zionist Congress (WZC) is often called the “parliament of the Jewish people”—a powerful platform where major decisions are made about Jewish communities worldwide and the future of Israel. Since Theodor Herzl convened the first congress in 1897, it has been shaping the course of Jewish history. Yet, despite its significance, most Jews don’t vote in the WZC elections—including Israeli-Americans, whose representation remains disproportionately low.

As Israeli-Americans—whether born in Israel or raised in Israeli households in the U.S.—our voice is unique. We speak Hebrew at home, celebrate Yom Ha’atzmaut with pride, and live with Israel in our hearts, even while building our lives in America. But unless we vote, our concerns, values, and perspectives won’t be reflected in the decisions made by the WZC.

Here’s why our vote matters:

1. Representing Our Unique Identity

We are not just another Jewish community in the U.S.—we are deeply connected to Israel in ways that set us apart. We think differently about Israel’s security, Hebrew education, Jewish identity, and engagement with Zionism. By voting in the WZC elections, we ensure that leaders who understand and advocate for our community have a seat at the table.

2. Directing Resources to What Matters to Us

The WZC oversees a massive budget that funds Jewish education, leadership programs, and community initiatives. Shouldn’t Israeli-American perspectives help decide where these resources go? Whether it’s strengthening Hebrew language programs, fighting antisemitism and anti-Zionism, or fostering stronger Israel-Diaspora relations, our vote can push these priorities forward.

3. Building a Stronger Israeli-American and Jewish Community

We often talk about the need to build a thriving Israeli-American community—one that keeps our heritage alive while fully engaging in Jewish life in the U.S. The WZC gives us a chance to do just that. By voting, we strengthen the bridges between Israel and the Diaspora, reinforcing our place within the broader Jewish world.

4. Shaping the Global Jewish Agenda

Decisions made at the WZC don’t just stay in Israel—they impact Jewish policies, initiatives, and institutions worldwide. By voting, we can influence the conversation around combating anti-Zionism, fostering pride in Jewish identity, and securing Israel’s future for the next generation.

5. Breaking the Apathy—Making a Difference

Let’s be honest—most people don’t even know the WZC elections exist. That’s exactly the problem. In 2020, only 123,575 Jews in the U.S. voted. That’s a fraction of our community. If Israeli-Americans show up in greater numbers, we can significantly shift the balance of influence.

Your Vote is Your Voice

This is our chance to make an impact—not just for ourselves, but for our children and future generations. The WZC isn’t just a distant political body; it’s a platform where our voices can shape the Jewish future. If we don’t step up, others will make decisions for us.

So let’s do this together. Let’s vote for a platform that represents our Israeli-American values and ensures that our community has the influence it deserves.

For more details about the Israeli-American platform, visit IAC360 | IAC | WZC