Friday, March 18, 2011

Israel's policies invite sanction

The government of Israel does not speak for the American Jewish community, nor does Israel speak for many Jews in other parts of the world. In fact, the Israeli government does not even speak for many Jews living in Israel.
American Jews have always played a central role in the major political movements for justice for all people in the United States. A careful examination of American history proves this. In fact, it's often been said that if one does not know American Jewish history, one does not know American history. Jews played key roles in the campaigns to abolish slavery; to support women's suffrage; to build a strong trade union movement; to build the civil rights movement; to oppose all U.S. wars; and of course to support Palestinian self-determination.
Let's not allow any double standards when Israel grossly violates human rights: It must be criticized and punished just like any other country. That is why there is widespread support within the American Jewish community for the campaign to boycott, divest and sanction Israel. We American Jews in the peace movement definitely
represent the great majority of Jews in this country. The handful of bigots and racists are clearly in the minority. It is the government of Israel and these misguided and hate-filled fanatics who are primarily responsible for the increase in anti-Semitism in the world today.

Source: lohudlohud.com

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