She cited Jewish continuity, domestic violence, and personal and professional growth as issues of universal concern to Jewish women. Jewish Women International will address those concerns by continuing its innovative, member-driven programs which empower communities to make positive changes. We started programs ten years ago to address the prevalence of domestic violence in Jewish homes. At that time, it wasn't widely recognized as a Jewish issue. Today, many major Jewish organizations have joined us and are now taking a stand against domestic abuse, and women's groups in Israel and Europe are tangling with the issue.
Jewish continuity is another issue that reverberates around the globe.
Citizens of the former Soviet Union are rediscovering their Jewish heritage while women in the U.S. seek to instill a love of Jewish traditions in their children. There was a time when communities were more intact. Today we live in diverse communities and must create a place for Jewish women to share their experiences and traditions, and learn from one another how to nurture a love of Judaism in their children and grandchildren. Jewish Women International has a hundred-year legacy of taking decisive stands on important issues and building community activism around those issues. As a contemporary, forward-thinking organization, it will continue to identify the current needs of Jewish women everywhere, and empower its members as a force for change.