Jews in the United States

The article is framed in primarily negative and disjointed themes. Three principles define a community: ideology, individuals and institutions. The American Jewish community is undergoing a transition mirroring these three factors.

Ideologically, American and world Jewry is dealing with the implications of the disintegration of the communist world and the re-emergence of nationalism. The implications of this phenomenon raise new questions regarding the status and security of Jews in many nations. Correspondingly, it has served as the impetus for Operation Exodus representing the largest migration of Jews in modern times to Israel. The relocation of Jews combined with Israel’s internal debate over its own definition of Jewish statehood do give definition and content to the discourse that is now a central focus to Jewish life.

Unlike previous periods in Jewish history, there is an absence today of identified and acknowledged leaders.

The institutional composition of American Jewish life is undergoing a rapid and even radical transition. Few organizations have adapted to the current tempo and social demands in response to changing perceptions and needs.

The test facing the organized Jewish community will rest with the credibility of its institutions, ideology and individual leadership to continue to be responsive to emerging demands as well as the political fears of its constituencies.

STEVEN F. WINDMUELLER, Executive Director, Jewish Community Relations Committee, Los Angeles