Scholar-in-Residence

The North Peninsula Jewish Community Presents
2025 North Peninsula Scholar in Residence Anat Hoffman
Advocate for Religious Freedom and Women’s Rights in Israel

Our 2025 Scholar in Residence weekend was filled with compelling insights from Anat Hoffman, Immediate Past Executive Director of the Israel Religious Action Center (IRAC), a leading organization dedicated to advancing justice and equality in Israeli society. A third-generation Israeli, Anat has advocated for women, Arab Israeli citizens, LGBTQ individuals, and egalitarian expressions of Jewish religion. She delved into Israel’s pressing social issues from the proposed national judicial reform to the challenges she addressed during her 14 years on Jerusalem’s City Council, showing how thoughtful activism can drive both public awareness and lasting legal change. 

Anat’s sessions included:

Bridging Generations: Reflections on the Past, Present, and Future of Israel
Through her family’s story, Anat will explore the evolution of Israel’s Jewish values, from her grandparents’ pioneering days to her own perspective as a grandmother today.

A 36-Year Chronology of Women of the Wall
Trace the inspiring journey of Women of the Wall, from its early struggles for religious freedom to its impact on gender equality in Israel.

The landscape of Liberal Judaism in Israel
Anat will delve into internal societal challenges, including religious pluralism, women’s rights, and struggles for freedom of conscience.

Supreme Court Cases: Triumphs and Setbacks in Social Justice
Anat will share impactful stories from her advocacy before the Israeli Supreme Court, highlighting victories and ongoing challenges.

The Struggles Within: Conflicts That Shape Israel’s Identity
Discover the growth of Reform and Conservative movements in Israel and their influence on pluralism and Jewish education.

Supported by the North Peninsula Jewish Community Partners:
Congregation Beth Jacob, Peninsula Sinai Congregation, Peninsula Temple Beth El, Peninsula Temple Sholom, Ronald C. Wornick Jewish Day School, and PJCC.

Funded primarily by the Koret Foundation and the Taube Foundation for Jewish Life & Culture.

Funded in part by Peninsula Jewish Community Center, Peninsula Temple Beth El, Peninsula Temple Sholom, Peninsula Sinai Congregation, Congregation Beth Jacob, Ronald C. Wornick Jewish Day School, and the Jewish Community Federation of San Francisco, the Peninsula, Marin and Sonoma Counties.