A significant number of St. Louisans identify as Jewish. In fact, a recent survey showed that since 1995, St. Louis’ Jewish population has increased by 14 percent to an estimated 61,000.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently formed a new government in Israel. Roey Gilad, Consul General of Israel to the Midwest, told “St. Louis on the Air” host Don Marsh that Israel is continuing to work to bridge the gap between Jewish-Americans in the United States and Jews in Israel.
Gilad, along with Andrew Rehfeld, CEO of the Jewish Federation of St. Louis, said that despite Israel’s relationship with the U.S. during negotiations on nuclear weapons with Iran, Netanyahu is open to input from Jewish-Americans on how to continue successful relationships.
“The support we get from the Jewish community is a strategic pillar for us,” Gilad said. “As a state, we wouldn’t do as well as we’ve done in the last 67 years without the support of the Jewish diaspora in general and the strongest Jewish diaspora here in the United States.”
“I think that relationship is critical,” Rehfeld added. “I think that it’s very important for the local American Jewish community to have a state of Israel- the people, land, history, and culture- has been a part of Jewish life for millennia.”
Rehfeld explained that one of the complex issues is the divide between younger and older generations. Many in the older generation, he explained, view supporting Israel as something that “has to be done,” whereas those of the younger generation are at times more critical of some of the country’s policies.
“For the younger generation of American Jews, the connection to Israel is what’s important to maintain, and recognize that their disagreements with the government is growing, too,” Rehfeld explained.
To bridge the generational divide, Gilad said that frank and open dialogue is necessary, despite criticism.
“I think the state of Israel is so strong because we embrace criticism,” Gilad said. “We wouldn’t do so well had we closed ourselves from criticism, whether it comes from the Jewish community or other communities. Dialogue is part of our ability to face all of the challenges we are facing.”
St. Louis on the Air discusses issues and concerns facing the St. Louis area. The show is produced by Mary Edwards and Alex Heuer and hosted by veteran journalist Don Marsh. Follow us on Twitter: @STLonAir.
