Israeli President Makes History at Masorti’s 35th Anniversary Gala

Shimon Peres:
"I Came Here This Evening to Hear Women Singing"

With more than 600 Masorti supporters in attendance at a gala affair to mark the movement's 35th anniversary, Shimon Peres became the first president in the history of Israel to publicly appear with the movement and declare his solidarity with the pluralistic and democratic values Masorti represents. Mr. Peres denounced extremists, calling them a "marginal minority" who "slander and disgrace the State," and praised the Masorti movement for its "commitment to humanism, peace, human rights and the rights of citizens."

To read the full text of the president’s speech, delivered on Thursday, January 5th, click here.

For complete story about the gala, click here.

Masorti Supporters Hold Banners High at Demonstration in Beit Shemesh to Protest Haredi Campaign for Gender Separation

Urged by Israeli President Shimon Peres, thousands of Masorti'im of all ages turned out to fight for women's rights and freedom of religious expression, and the values of a democratic Jewish state. As you can see from the pictures taken at the protest, Masorti supporters proudly raised signs identifying themselves with the movement. In a photo that appeared in both the Hebrew and English editions of the Israeli daily, Ha'aretz, Masorti is clearly front and center. To read more, click here. We need your help to continue to fight this battle for the democratic heart and soul of Israel. Every dollar counts. Please make your contribution today with your online donation. Bar/Bat Mitzvah Program for Children with Special Needs: Creating Special Memories for Israeli Families "I must admit, I did not know you beforehand and was worried about going to a Masorti synagogue, since I was raised in an Orthodox home. I was amazed how understanding, supporting and warm everyone was to all of us. " -- from Ido's family "When I found out Ro’i was being called up to the Torah through the Masorti movement I was thrilled. Somewhere deep inside, I really wanted him to have a Bar Mitzvah, but I never thought it was possible. I thought to myself - he deserves it too!" -- from Ro'i's family Read more ...

Suit up for Purim: Take a Costume Hint from the Sages!

It’s easy to find a great idea for a Purim costume from Masorti’s colorful “Yellow Pages” poster, cataloguing the livelihoods of the Talmudic sages and Jewish thinkers.

Rashi? He was a wine-maker. Hillel? A lumberjack. And his “rival,” Shammai? A builder. Maybe you want to dress up like the doctor, Maimonides. Or be a cobbler, or a tailor, or a cowboy. How about a needle-maker? In fact, all the sages worked hard earning a living, even as they devoted time to study, arguing and writing Jewish law.

Available through Haggadahs-R-Us, it is a terrific conversation-starter for classrooms, at your Purim carnival or just about anywhere you gather with friends and family. Click here for prices and ordering.

50% of the profits from the poster sales will go to support the Masorti movement in Israel.

The most recent Masorti Foundation Print Newsletter (English)

To read about Masorti featured in other publications, including op-ed pieces by Masorti movement leadership, click here.

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