At Tzedek Chicago, Friday night Shabbat services incorporate a unique focus on solidarity with Gaza, particularly through a prayer by Rabbi Brant Rosen emphasizing resilience against violence. This aligns with Rosen's break from traditional Zionism following perceived Israeli war crimes during past conflicts. Tzedek Chicago has embraced an anti-Zionist stance, challenging the predominant American Jewish belief that support for Israel is central to Jewish identity. Surveys indicate that a significant majority of American Jews see caring for Israel as vital, creating a rift between Tzedek and larger Jewish communities.
For Rosen, solidarity with Palestinians has become a core Jewish value. He founded Tzedek Chicago after breaking with the Zionism of his upbringing.
The break came after a 2008 incursion by Israel on Gaza in which he felt that Israel was committing war crimes against the Palestinian people.
Three years ago, Tzedek Chicago became explicitly anti-Zionist meaning it does not support a Jewish nation-state. That view is at odds with the vast majority of American Jews.
According to a 2021 survey by the Pew Research Center, 80% of American Jews say caring about Israel is an important or essential part of what being Jewish means to them.
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