Resolutions 2003

Resolution In Support of Aid to States (USA)

Whereas Jewish tradition has long taught that it is the community’s responsibility to provide for its poor, as Lev. 25:35 teaches, “If your brother, being in straits, comes under your authority, you shall strengthen him;”

Whereas Jewish communities always provided for their poor, as Maimonides teaches, “We have never seen nor heard of an Israelite community that does not have a charity fund;”

Whereas the number of people receiving welfare increased in more than ¾ of the states during the last quarter of 2002;

Resolution on the AMIA in Argentina

Whereas Jews converted by the Bet Din of the Masorti Movement in Buenos Aires suffer discrimination by the authorities of the Asociacion Mutual Argentina – AMIA; and

Whereas there is no member of the Rabbinical Assembly represented in the AMIA, despite its claim to be the umbrella institution for Argentinean Jewry, and in spite of its support by Masorti synagogues.

Therefore be it resolved that the Rabbinical Assembly urge the AMIA to change its policy to reflect pluralism in accordance with the spirit of its founders - to serve the entire Jewish community; and

Resolution On Global Anti-Semitism

Whereas the members of the Rabbinical Assembly are greatly concerned by the persistence and resurgence of anti-Semitism around the world; and

Whereas in the Middle East, leaders have failed to speak out against false and incendiary allegations such as the infamous blood libel, Holocaust denial, and comparisons of Israel and Israeli leaders to Nazis; and

Resolution on Expanding Worldwide Masorti Presence

Whereas the strength of the Conservative/Masorti Movement lies in serving Jewish communities the world over;

Whereas Masorti Olami (the World Council) has embarked upon a vigorous campaign to expand Conservative Masorti communities in Europe and Australia, and to strengthen existing communities in Latin America; and

Whereas there is a need for rabbinic leadership, religious educators, and increased financing to support these efforts.

Therefore be it resolved that the Rabbinical Assembly:

Resolution on Conflict with Iraq

Rabbi Yose HaGalili says, "How meritorious is peace?  Even in time of war Jewish law requires that one initiate discussions of peace." (Leviticus Rabbah, Tzav 9 ).

Whereas the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries are currently engaged in armed conflict with Iraq;

Whereas Judaism affirms the permissibility of war as a response to life-threatening aggression, current or anticipated;

Whereas Judaism also affirms the supreme value of peace and peacemaking;

Resolution In Support of the Jewish Community in Argentina

Whereas the economic crisis in the Argentinean economy has resulted in the disappearance of almost the entire middle class, including the Jewish middle class;

Whereas 750.000 jobs were lost between October 2001 and December 2002, and 162,000 small businesses closed during 2002 with domestic investment falling by 46%;

Whereas according to the Joint Distribution Committee, 1,500 people are joining different welfare relief programs every month totalling at least 34,524 people by the end of 2002;