Why Jewish Federation of British Columbia’s Role Matters in Divided Times

As we approach the High Holidays and enter the final stretch toward Israel’s October 27 election, I find myself reflecting on a question that will become increasingly relevant in the weeks ahead: What is the role of the Jewish Federation of British Columbia during periods of political intensity and communal debate?

I ask this question not because of any single event, personality, or disagreement. I ask it because periods of heightened passion have a way of testing institutions. They challenge us to determine not only what we believe, but who we are. In moments like these, it is easy to be pulled away from our mission by the urgency of the day. It is much harder, and much more important, to remain anchored in purpose.

That is why now feels like the right moment to reaffirm who we are, what we do, and why we do it.

Recently, I was reminded of this while observing a disagreement within a vulnerable municipality in northern Israel. The details of that situation matter less than the lesson it offered. Well-intentioned people saw different paths forward. Some advocated for a particular outcome. Others sought to exert pressure or align with one side.

Our instinct was different.

Rather than deepening division, we sought to encourage dialogue, reinforce local leadership, and strengthen the community’s ability to move forward together. We did not see our role as determining the outcome. We saw our role as helping create the conditions under which the people closest to the challenge could find a path forward themselves.

The experience reinforced a lesson that extends far beyond any one municipality or election cycle.

Influence is powerful. The question is not whether we have influence. The question is how we choose to exercise it.

At the Jewish Federation of British Columbia, we have spent years defining who we are and where we can have the greatest impact. Our mission........

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