Why I Was a Zionist and Why I Now Am Not

The Dybbukast

In this episode, presented in collaboration with the Jewish Museum of Maryland, we share selections from a speech by Rabbi Morris S. Lazaron, which was given at the convention of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations in 1937. Portions of this speech are featured along with excerpts from his unpublished autobiography in an article from the Museum's journal, Generations, titled “Why I Was a Zionist and Why I Now Am Not.” A prominent and nationally known leader affiliated with the Reform movement, Morris Lazaron served as rabbi for Baltimore Hebrew Congregation from 1915 through much of 1946, and, later, as rabbi emeritus.

Rabbi Lazaron’s words and work serve as an entry point for us to explore the American Council for Judaism: a non-Zionist, anti-nationalist organization that he co-founded with a group of Reform rabbis in 1942.

Dr. Matt Berkman, visiting professor at Oberlin College in Ohio, takes us through the history, philosophy, and formation of the American Council for Judaism while Rabbi Andrew Busch, current rabbi of Baltimore Hebrew Congregation, and Peggy Wolf, Rabbi Lazaron’s granddaughter, share about the rabbi’s life, work, and legacy.