UPJ Vice-President Helen Shardey wrote an article published in The Australian Jewish News in which she shares her belief that Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu is not the leader he once was. The article includes her experiences while in Israel in May 2023, when she attended the World Zionist Congress, the World Union for Progressive Judaism's Connections Conference, as well as attending public protests, and her special invitation to the residence of the Israeli President Isaac Herzog. CLICK HERE to read the article. #TheAustralianJewishNews

UPJ Co-President David Knoll, who is in Israel to attend the WUPJ Connections Conference, is part of a large delegation from the UPJ region. In addition to enjoying the conference, the delegation has had the opportunity to participate in protests, standing up for the Israel that we all care for. David wrote an article about his experiences for the The Australian Jewish News, which was published this week (4 May 2023). CLICK HERE to read the article.

The UPJ hosted its fifth Jewish music conference, Shir Chadash, in Geelong on 14-16 April. "Kol Ha'olam Kulo: Jewish Music From Around the World" was presented by UPJ Music Network Chair Cantor Michel Laloum with faculty members Judy Campbell, Rabbi George Mordecai and Andrea Catzel. With the highest attendance to date, singers, musicians and lovers of Jewish music joined for a festive celebration as we sang together in person for the first time since the 2019 music conference.

Avishai Conyer, Netzer Australia Federal Mazkir, wrote "A plea to the Jewish Diaspora - protecting the land we love!". Here is an excerpt: What can I do, as an individual in Australia, in response to such an enormous ongoing threat to Israel's existence as a democratic State? How can I stay true to my progressive and Zionist values when the fabric of Israel's liberal and Zionist identity is being challenged in its foundational institutions? CLICK HERE to read the full article.