Recent events in Israel have shown the world the very worse side of fundamental Judaism. In many countries this extremism has been used to try and exclude many Jews from community involvement.

The extremism exhibited in Israel is not a recent phenomenon but has been developing insidiously for decades. Sadly, some Jews see this as "authentic" Judaism but this emphasis on extreme ritual Judaism over an inclusive and accessible Judaism that encourages tikkun olam, has corrupted many in the Orthodox world. This has led to exclusiveness and has caused many Jews to simply walk away from their Judaism.

It is at this stage that the Jewish world must start questioning what Judaism really stands for in the 21st century.

Progressive Judaism has long believed in a Judaism that demonstrates equality for all Jews irrespective of gender or sexual orientation. We are keen to learn from all of our rabbis, both men and women, and we are dedicated to reach out to all Jews, wherever they are on their Jewish journey.

Women rabbis in the Progressive world have not only contributed as much as their male colleagues, but have provided a rich and intelligent interpretation of Jewish texts. We would have been poorer without their thoughtful insights. Women lay leaders have contributed equally to building vibrant progressive Jewish communities and institutions across the world.

Now is the time to really question customs that have become "Jewish Law", such as the religious prohibition on women singing in front of orthodox men in the secular sphere. What is the logic of this offensive culture, that even requires separate seating at non-religious community functions or even on buse?. This side-lining of women has led to women generally being considered second class Jews and has led to verbal and physical abuse.

The Jewish world must act now before it is too late. We must not allow Judaism to degenerate into corrosive fundamentalism.

Rabbi Stephen Lewis Fuchs is President of the World Union for Progressive Judaism, and Michael Grabiner is the Chair.