During a time when the values of pluralism, egalitarianism and inclusivity in Israel are being tested to the limits, there is a greater urgency than ever to strengthen the partnership between the Conservative Jewish community in the United States and our Masorti brethren in Israel. Diaspora Jews are fortunate to have an active and growing Masorti movement in Israel – now nearly 80 kehillot strong - that is dedicated to Israel’s original and eternal vision from its Declaration of Independence. In 5779, with our support, the Israeli Masorti movement will: • Advocate for the right of all Jews to have full access to an egalitarian prayers section at the Kotel. • Speak out to ensure that what happened in July to Rabbi Dubi Haiyun, our Masorti colleague from Haifa, never happens again. Our Masorti leadership launched a multi-prong campaign to protest Rabbi Haiyun’s detention, and defend his and all Israelis right to weddings, conversions and other life cycle events according to their traditions. • Ensure that Knesset members are held accountable to govern on behalf of all Israelis based on the Zionist ethos of equality, compassion and justice for all. This mission is advanced by Masorti’s Jewish Pluralism Watch; • Create the next generation of Masorti leaders through the NOAM youth movement and Ramah camping program. • Defend fundamental values of justice and equality. Examples include advocating to meet the humanitarian needs of Israel’s asylum-seeker community, and fighting for Yosef Kabita and other members of the Jewish Abayudaya community from Uganda. • Ensure that children with disabilities have the opportunity to fully participate in Jewish and Israeli life, often impossible under the ultra-Orthodox authorities. An array of Jewish empowerment and inclusion opportunities, including Bar and Bat Mitzvah learning and celebration, are offered by Masorti’s ADRABA – the Shirley Lowy Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities.