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Judaism is often seen in Israel as an exclusive religious way of life that manages to exclude large parts of Israeli society and Diaspora Jewry. The vision of Haaretz’s Judaism conference is to expand the definitions of Judaism beyond the narrow-religious boundaries, and to illuminate the existence of Judaism as a culture, a nation and a shared identity for Israelis and Diaspora Jews. Only through a broader perception of Judaism is it possible to realize the Zionist vision of a Jewish and democratic state and to build a strong, open and respectful relationship between Israel and Diaspora Jewry.

Together with prominent figures from Israeli society, politicians, academics, social entrepreneurs and leading representatives of Diaspora Jewry, we will try to answer the fundamental questions regarding Jewish identity in Israel and the ties with the Diaspora.

Featured speakers include: Reuven Rivlin, President of Israel; David M. Friedman, U.S. Ambassador to Israel; Isaac Herzog, Chairman of the Executive, The Jewish Agency for Israel; Omer Yankelevich, Minister of Diaspora Affairs; Shira Ruderman, General Director, Ruderman Family Foundation; Asher Cohen, President of Hebrew University; Eric Fingerhut, President and CEO, The Jewish Federations of North America; and Jay Ruderman, President, Ruderman Family Foundation.

Click here for the full conference program.