Limmud Oz 2021

Isi Leibler was one of the leading international Jewish figures post-World War II. He has been described as a giant of his generation and various obituaries have explored his legacy and leadership style. Always controversial, Leibler was never afraid to speak out. He believed a leader’s task was to lead, not follow. New York journalist, Gary Rosenblatt, who followed Isi’s battle with the World Jewish Congress, wrote in the New York Jewish Week, ‘Isi Leibler, who died at 86 in Jerusalem on April 13, was unique in that he was… an outspoken establishment leader and, as a man of conscience, someone willing to expose corruption, even within groups where he held top posts.’ In this session Australian Jewish leader, Alex Ryvchin, will explore these issues of leadership in conversation with historian, Professor Suzanne Rutland, who has just published the biography: Lone Voice: the wars of Isi Leibler.