Yochi Rappeport

We are all necessary components of Am Yisrael, the people of Israel. As the saying goes, “A Jew is a Jew is a Jew.” So why does the State of Israel favor one kind of Jew over the rest?

Why is my country shaming me for my Jewish practice? Is my desire to be an equal Jew a “finger in someone’s eye?”

Recent events and those that are expected prove once again that it is necessary to implement the Kotel agreement – the sooner the better.

The Second Temple was destroyed by internal Jewish conflict. History often repeats itself.

The 39 torn siddurim were each a lash on our souls individually and as a people.

Over the years, world Jewry has continuously answered their call of duty to us, but can we honestly say that we have done the same for them?

Israel has not had an approved budget for almost two years. The education and health systems are collapsing.

The religious world has seen changes thanks to the brave men and women who have dared to break existing conventions and move toward an egalitarian reality.

We understand and know that the only way for change to happen is for both sides to extend compassion.

I wish I could have watched this sacred place flourish and grow in parallel with my daughter. Her development is on target; the Kotel’s has fallen far behind.