Expanding Jewish education in the diaspora is a 'shared responsibility' - editorial

Israel has launched a significant national initiative to bolster Jewish education in Diaspora communities, approving a NIS 200 million plan in partnership with The Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA).

The initiative, proposed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Diaspora Affairs and Combating Antisemitism Minister Amichai Chikli, will be jointly led by their ministries and JFNA. The program will concentrate on North America, where approximately 1.8 million Jewish school-age children live, with only a fraction attending Jewish educational institutions.

Key goals include increasing enrollment in Jewish schools, reinforcing Jewish identity, fostering a stronger sense of belonging to the Jewish people, and deepening connections to the State of Israel. The plan also addresses barriers such as high tuition costs, accessibility, and the need for specialized services for students with learning disabilities, incorporating digital tools and new educational frameworks.

Gary Torgow, chair of JFNA’s Board of Trustees, highlighted that the partnership stems from a meeting four years prior, emphasizing the need for Israeli government investment in Diaspora Jewish education. "For too long, Jewish education in the Diaspora has been treated largely as a local communal concern," Torgow stated. "Sunday’s decision recognizes a deeper truth: The Jewish future is a shared responsibility."

This move underscores Israel's commitment to the Jewish future beyond its borders, viewing the strength of Diaspora Jewry as a core strategic interest. The initiative gains particular urgency following the wave of antisemitism experienced by Jewish communities globally after October 7, 2023, which has impacted campuses, schools, and public life.

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For too long, Jewish education in the Diaspora has been treated largely as a local communal concern. Parents, synagogues, philanthropists, federations, foundations, and school boards have shouldered the burden while Israel watched, encouraged, and occasionally helped. Sunday’s decision recognizes a deeper truth: The Jewish future is a shared responsibility.