This opinion piece by Anna Langer and Mimi Kravetz of the Jewish Federations of North America reflects on the rise in Jewish communal engagement following the October 7 attacks, a phenomenon they call “the Surge.” According to federation research, the attacks and subsequent war led to a sustained increase in Jewish participation in communal life, with many Jews reporting stronger emotional attachment to Israel, greater involvement in Jewish learning and community events, and deeper connections with other Jews. At the same time, the authors note growing tension within Jewish spaces about how Israel is discussed. Many community members feel conversations about the war have become divisive, with a significant portion saying they do not feel comfortable expressing their views in communal settings.
The authors argue that the challenge facing Jewish institutions is not disengagement from Israel but managing a community that is both highly connected to Israel and deeply divided over its politics. They propose several strategies for strengthening long-term connection: maintaining strong public support for Israel, creating internal spaces for nuanced conversation, expanding Israel travel opportunities, offering diverse programs that meet different community needs, and emphasizing Jewish joy and spirituality alongside political discussion. Ultimately, they contend that Jewish organizations must build on the post–Oct. 7 surge in engagement to create lasting relationships with Israel and sustain Jewish communal participation in the years ahead.
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