Urgent Update on Anti-Semitism in Hungary and the effect on Masorti Jewish life 

The entire Hungarian Jewish community, including Masorti institutions there, is fast becoming a victim of the upsurge in nationalism and rising anti-Semitism that is flourishing in Hungary.

In 2001, MAROM Olami (Masorti young adult program), opened a program for young Jewish adults in Hungary, concentrating on strengthening Jewish and Zionist identity, developing young leadership and addressing the needs of the next generation of Jews.

The program is based out of Siraly, a three-story building in the heart of what used to be Budapest's Jewish quarter. Siraly is home to a club/pub that is a gathering place for the younger Jewish community that runs a range of activities for young Jewish adults. They are also fighting against Anti-Semitism and other kinds of discrimination by supporting worthwhile civic initiatives.  The community center also serves the Dor Hadash Masorti synagogue.  

Unfortunately, Siraly and MAROM Budapest's (Masorti young adult program) continued operation is now under threat.  Recently, The Forward reported on the closing of Siraly but we are determined to keep the program going.

With your support we can find another location for Siraly that will make it possible to sustain Masorti Jewish life in Hungary for the next generation and beyond.      

The Masorti Olami/Mercaz Olami opening evening for the WZO meetings was held on a warm Jerusalem evening at the new Schechter Institute Building.   Looking around the room, you could see supporters of our movement from all around the world.  It was the perfect opportunity to honor three special people - Rabbi Yoav Ende (top left), Mrs. Evelyn Seelig (top right) and Mr. Claude Machline (bottom left).  All three of our honorees work tirelessly to support our movement and our message.

During the WZO meetings, an instrumental part of what we accomplished was the agreement between the WZO and KKL which assures the stability of our religious pluralistic stream funding for the next five years. 

As well, the work of the Abuyadaya in Uganda was presented by our own Judy Gray in the small community committee of the Board of Governors meeting of the Jewish Agency.  This report was very well received and is an important step in helping the members of that community, who were converted by Masorti rabbis, participate in MASA Israel programs.