US votes ‘overwhelmingly’ for women to be elected Chairs

The United Synagogue has registered another step towards gender equality by voting to enable the organisation to elect women trustees for the first time.

At a crowded Council meeting on Monday evening, the resolution passed by an overwhelming majority,

The change follows last year’s decision to allow shuls to elect women as Chairs and this week US leaders hailed the latest landmark moment.

“I am delighted by the result of last night’s vote,” said Stephen Pack, president of the United Synagogue. “I am committed to maximise the opportunities for women to take a leadership role in our organisation.”

Co-chair of US Women, Dalia Cramer, said: “This represents a wonderful opportunity for the United Synagogue to benefit hugely from the leadership talent which abounds amongst its female members.”

She added: “The trustee board and indeed the organisation as a whole will be enormously enriched by this decision.”

Leonie Lewis, who runs US Women alongside Cramer, echoed her colleague’s thoughts, saying she was “thrilled” that the motion passed.

“We have been working towards this vision for over 4 years, advocating for women to sit at the table in parity with their male colleagues,” she said.

“This decision is of great significance. Women have always been integral in the US and are fast becoming a major part in the organisation’s leadership.”