Begin writes a comment about the Civil Marriage Bill crisis. He explains different theories of what could happen to both Mapam and Independent Liberals if they decide to vote for the Hausner Bill. He concludes saying that the fate of the parties depends more on Golda Meir and less on Coalition agreements.
Begin speaks to the Knesset about Jewish and other nationalities in Israel. He emphasizes that one does not need to have to be Jewish to be a free citizen with equal rights in Israel. He also emphasizes that there is not a separation between Jewish nationhood and religion. Begin starts his speech showing that there can be a democratic State consisting of different nationalities. Because of Jewish history, Israel is sensitive to minorities living in Israel. Furthermore, Begin wants to prove that Judaism is far from racist. Then he shares that Herzl understood the intertwining between Jewish nationhood and religion. Begin points out that this connection can also be seen in the Bible. Begin argues that assimilation and intermarriage affects who is a Jew. There are people who are connected to Judaism, but are not considered Jewish. For the sake of these people, he argues, conversion should be made easier.
A speech by Begin to a Betar conference in South Africa in 1953. Begin is proud of the delegates to the conference for their allegiance and dedication. He says that Herut must not give up on the goal of a constitution for Israel, even if the idea is unpopular, because it is a necessity. Begin rejects the usage of the terms ‘left’ and ‘right’ as applied to political parties, as they were developed arbitrarily. He argues that Herut will defend the middle class from Mapai’s attempts to destroy it. Herut must be a party for all Jews in Israel. Herut supports the supremacy of the law and the independence of the judiciary. Herut is against the concept of civil marriages because it would lead to two different societies in Israel. The road for Betar and Herut may be long and hard, but their members should remember that Jabotinsky did not live to see the creation of the State of Israel either. They may yet achieve their goals despite their hardships.
