
To: Prime Minister Netanyahu
Re: In Support of the Conversion Bill
Dear Mr. Prime Minister,
I am writing to you regarding what some are calling a “controversial conversion bill” currently before the Knesset.
The language used in this bill is sensible and correct. This bill raises issues about the chief rabbinate having full authority over conversions and includes new language about the stringent commitment to halacha. This is indeed the way it should have been from day one . Finally, after 62-years the Law of Return, will unite the Jewish people and close the gaping wedge caused by its original defective language. It will correct and strengthen the close working relationship between the Jewish State and Diaspora Jews. The amending of the law will significantly enhance our ability to connect and inspire the overwhelming majority of our community around Klal Yisrael.
I know you are aware of the deep sense of concern this proposal has stirred among non-halachik advocates of Judaism. If successful, this bill will strengthen the Diaspora-Israel relationship and create significant long-term impacts. Namely Jewish unity and integrity on the singular issue of Jewish identity.
We urge you and members of your Likud party to speak out in support for this legislation now, so that it may become law as soon as possible. It’s time to help put out the fire of assimilation and intermarriage.
I hope you will show your concern for the unity of the Jewish People and work with the Knesset and the leadership of the Jewish Diaspora to see the passage of this bill in accordance with the mandate of Judaism and its adherents as accepted throughout the millennia throughout the world.
With respect,
Rabbi Yehoshua S. Hecht
President Rabbinical Council of Connecticut, USA
Beth Israel Synagogue of Westport/Norwalk
40 King Street, Norwalk, CT 06851
203 247-6289