What is Zionism?
Zionism is the belief in the Jewish people’s right to self-determination in our ancestral homeland of Israel. It affirms that Jews, like all peoples, have the right to live in safety, dignity, and sovereignty in a nation of their own.
Who popularized Zionism?
While the connection to the land of Israel dates back thousands of years, Theodor Herzl helped formalize and globalize the modern Zionist movement, which ultimately led to the establishment of the State of Israel.
What does Zionism mean today?
Today, supporting Zionism means promoting the continued existence of a Jewish state and upholding the right of Jews to live freely in their historic homeland.
Does Zionism demand borders?
Zionism does not demand specific borders. In fact, thoughtful debate about borders, settlements, land disputes, and justice for all is not only allowed within Zionism—it’s essential to it. These conversations matter. They are necessary. The strength of Zionism lies in its broad spectrum of beliefs, united by a shared commit-ment to Jewish self-determination in our ancestral homeland.
Does Zionism negate a Palestinian State?
Absolutely not. Zionism is not the opposite of Palestinian statehood—in fact, many believe that the full realization of Zionism may only be possible alongside a Palestinian state. Zionism is not about domination; it is about dignity, safety, and sovereignty for the Jewish people in their ancestral homeland. Its goal is peace.
Is the creation of Israel the fulfillment of Zionism?
No! The creation of the State of Israel was a monumental chapter in the Zionist story—but it was not the final one. Like every national project, Israel has its imperfections. No country—whether the U.S., Canada, France, or Israel—perfectly fulfills its founding ideals. Zionism remains a living pursuit: the ongoing work of building a safe, secure, democratic, and Jew-ish state where Jewish values are not only proclaimed but practiced.