Source: Chicago Sun-Times
On May 27, 1999, the Chicago Sun-Times reported that the Central Conference of American Rabbis in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania endorsed a measure by a vote of 324-68 to encourage Reform Judaism toward the observance of more traditional rituals and practices, such as keeping kosher, wearing a yarmulke, and praying in Hebrew. Reform Judaism's founding platform in 1885 eschewed many Jewish traditions because they were viewed as obstacles to "modern spiritual elevation." Rabbi Michael Siegel, the newly elected president of the Chicago Board of Rabbis, stated that, "a move back to the traditions in religious life is taking place in America in general and the decision by the Reform movement to include more Hebrew in its services, and return to the tradition, is an indication of what goes on around the country."