The Latest from BZBI

News and Resources for Supporting Israel and Handling the Rise in Anti-Semitism

    July 25, 2024

    Hello everyone,

    We hope you are doing well at these challenging times. We wanted to personally update you on developments regarding the date of the next elections to the World Zionist Congress.

    Today, the WZO’s Executive voted to move forward with postponing the next Zionist Congress and with it, the next elections for the Congress to 2026. This decision was reached following requests by Zionist Federations (the bodies that administer the elections) in countries around the world, who expressed concern that this moment of continued conflict in Israel with 115 hostages still in Gaza, as well as of rising antisemitism around the world is not the right one to invest time, resources, and energy into competitive elections within Jewish communities.

    Following today’s vote, there are two more bodies that must pass this decision to make it final: the Presidency of the Zionist General Council, and the Zionist General Council as a whole. (A body that’s smaller but proportionally representative of the Zionist Congress for which you vote.)

    While nothing is final, it is expected to pass.

    What does this mean for our work together? In the coming weeks, you will hear from MERCAZ regarding plans and materials for the Chagim in your communities: plans whose *tactical* execution will not change based on developments regarding the date of the elections. As soon as a final decision on our timeline is reached and ratified, we will update you so you can incorporate that information into the aforementioned plans for the Chagim. We will also let you know about the next steps for our efforts generally.

    Of course, we are here to answer any questions you may have. Make no mistake: whether the elections are in 2025 or 2026, your work will make a tangible, historic difference in shaping the State of Israel that will emerge from the struggles and tragedy of the past year. Your work could not be more important for the future of the Jewish people.

    We are grateful for your patience and understanding as this process like everything in Israel and the Jewish world has played out in the shadow of the tragedy of October 7th and the ensuing war. Having gotten to know so many of you, we know how dedicated and strong of a team we are together. Thank you for all you have done and will continue to do. We promise to keep you apprised of all developments.

    Members of the World Zionist Executive representing the global Masorti/Conservative Movement

    Rabbi Mauricio Balter                                          Dr. Yizhar Hess                        Tammy Gottlieb

    Executive Director                                                 WZO Vice Chairman              MERCAZ Olami & Masorti Olami

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    June 27, 2024

    Stand With Us Rally: Protect Jewish Teachers and Students
    Wednesday, July 3 at 4:30 PM outside the Pennsylvania Convention Center, 1101 Arch Street
    The National Education Association is holding its annual Representative Assembly (RA) in Philadelphia, where 6,000 delegates will vote on various New Business Items (NBI), including some that are anti-Semitic and anti-Israel. “Educators for Palestine” are rallying at 4:30 PM outside the PA convention center in support of these anti-Semitic NBIs. Join Stand With Us for a counter rally to support Jewish educators and students and urge delegates to vote NO on the anti-Semitic NBIs. The Philadelphia Police Department will be on site.

    April 5, 2024

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    ADL and SCN Urge Expanded Vigilance & Preparation in the U.S., While Encouraging Jewish Facilities to Remain Open
    Given Iranian Regime Threats, “The Lights Are Blinking Red – And Fast”
    CHICAGO, IL  — In response to Israel’s Foreign Ministry placing Israeli foreign missions around the world on high alert due to potential attacks against Jewish targets by the Islamic Republic of Iran and its terrorist proxies, ADL (the Anti-Defamation League) and the Secure Community Network (SCN) today urged the American Jewish community to expand its vigilance and preparation to prevent attacks.

    The importance of this heightened alert level was further evidenced by the repeated threats voiced by Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and leaders of Tehran’s terrorist proxies, including Hamas and Hezbollah. In response to these recent developments, ADL and SCN issued a joint statement:

    “In this moment of escalating international tension, the lights are blinking bright red, and they are blinking fast. The Jewish community across North America is facing unprecedented antisemitism and a heightened threat landscape and we must increase our vigilance to protect the community. We have a dual imperative to prioritize safety and security while continuing to live our lives as proud Jews. Absent actionable information provided by law enforcement or public safety partners concerning a specific facility, we are urging Jewish institutions to remain open and operational while those in charge of security, community leaders, and indeed all members of the community should heighten awareness and security measures across organizations and in daily activities. We must not allow those who seek to spread fear to win. We will never abandon what makes us Jewish in the face of those who wish us harm.”

    ADL and SCN have tracked record levels of antisemitism, hate, and violence in the wake of the October 7th Hamas terrorist attacks against Israel.

    As the situation continues to develop, the ADL and SCN will provide timely updates, guidance, and support to the Jewish community. Community members are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement immediately. We also urge law enforcement authorities to be vigilant against any potential threats and act in a proactive way to thwart any potential attacks.

    April 3, 2024

    We cannot allow another day to pass without standing up for Israel and demanding the release of our hostages. We need YOUR help TODAY to send a strong message to President Biden to support Israel, combat antisemitism, and secure the release of our hostages. To do so, we will collect 180,000 signed letters that will be hand-delivered to the White House on Wednesday, April 3rd – the 180th day since October 7th. Please sign the letter and help us reach our goal of 180,000 letters of support for the hostages. 

    March 28, 2024

    Hateful messages spray painted in front of Temple Beth Zion-Beth Israel synagogue in Center City

    PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) — The Jewish community in Center City Philadelphia is on edge after police say two women spray painted hateful messages in front of a historic synagogue earlier this week. Watch the full news story video here.

    BZBI Hit With Hateful Graffiti

    Temple Beth Zion-Beth Israel in Center City was hit March 24 when two women spray-painted hateful messages on the sidewalk outside the synagogue, 6 ABC reported. Surveillance video from BZBI showed two women with stencils spray-painting the messages, which have since been blacked out, at 18th and Spruce streets.  Read the full story from the Jewish Exponent here.

    March 27, 2024

    ADL Campus Antisemitism Report Card 

    ADL’s Campus Antisemitism Report Card is a tool for students, parents, alumni, college faculty, guidance counselors, admissions consultants and other stakeholders. Their goal is to serve students and their families looking for information about the current state of antisemitism on campus and how particular universities and colleges are responding. Click here to view the report card. 

    Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia calls on Haverford Collège Officials to Condemn Anti-Semitic Campus Event

    The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia calls on Haverford College officials to condemn today’s student-organized campus event entitled “COVID in Times of Genocide: How Israel uses COVID as a Tool for Settler Colonialism in Palestine.” The event’s title dangerously and inaccurately implies that Israel spread coronavirus to advance its global control, repackaging a centuries-old antisemitic trope that Jews take advantage of global crises as a means for their own gain and advancement. In this case, the event’s narrative takes on a new form of the antisemitic blood libel trope, accusing Jews of committing ritual murder and perpetuating the harmful stereotype of Jews as evil and conniving.  To read more click here.

    Campus Antisemitism: A Study of Campus Climate Before and After the Hamas Terrorist Attacks

    Jewish students are experiencing a wave of antisemitism, and non-Jewish students are much less likely to see it. To better understand the current state of the campus climate for Jewish students, the ADL Center for Antisemitism Research (CAR), Hillel International, and College Pulse conducted a longitudinal survey of American college students before and after the Hamas terror attacks on October 7, 2023. To read more click here.

    Israel Has Created a New Standard for Urban Warfare. Why Will No One Admit It? | Opinion

    The Israel Defense Forces conducted an operation at al-Shifa hospital in the Gaza Strip to root out Hamas terrorists recently, once again taking unique precautions as it entered the facility to protect the innocent; Israeli media reported that doctors accompanied the forces to help Palestinian patients if needed. They were also reported to be carrying food, water and medical supplies for the civilians inside. To read more, click here.

    March 18, 2024

    The Human Rights Establishment

    For too long, human-rights groups have been granted a free pass to serve as society’s watchdogs without first proving they are fit to bark. Opaque, unelected, and largely unaccountable, they must finally be required to descend from their moral mountaintops and demonstrate in their own conduct the accountability and transparency they demand of others.  Read more from this Sapir article by clicking here.

    February 19, 2024

    What Americans don’t get about Israelis fighting for their lives

    They fail to understand a traumatized nation facing genocidal foes—one that is united behind a war whose aim is the preservation of their very existence.  To read more of this article by Jonathan Tobin, click here.

     

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    Tools for talking about the War in Israel and the Rise in Anti-Semitism (Updated December 2023):

    Never Is Now, ADL’s signature event, provides an opportunity for you to join hundreds of individuals from across the country, alongside fellow congregations, influential figures, industry and community leaders, experts and students to take part in critical conversations around antisemitism and hate.  Click here to read more and register.

    Tools for dealing with Anti-Semitic and Anti-Israel Incidents on Campus

    Ten Ways to have conscientious conversations on the Israeli- Palestinian Conflict

    Antisemitism Uncovered: A Guide to Old Myths in a New Era

    Table Talk: Family Conversations about Current Events

    This week, the presidents of Harvard, Penn, and MIT testified before Congress on the topic of rising campus antisemitism. When asked if “calling for the genocide of Jews” could violate school policies, these university presidents equivocated, suggesting it “depends on the context.” This utter failure to show moral clarity at a time when antisemitism is surging on college campuses is dangerous.  This is not a question of free speech, but rather a question of whether genocidal calls on campus will be met with consequences. The only acceptable answer is yes. They couldn’t say it. Will your president do so now?

    Jewish students and faculty need to know that they’re protected against this threatening behavior. Join ADL in asking the presidents of universities across the U.S. to affirm that calling for the genocide of Jews violates their schools’ policies.

    You can take action with this link https://adl.salsalabs.org/genocide-campus. Please consider sharing it with your friends, family, and neighbors.

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    How You Can Help Israel:

    The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia has set up an emergency response fund to aid in relief efforts. Donations will help fund shelter and psychological trauma, basic needs and equipment, and training for additional emergency personnel. 

    Magen David Adom – please click here. Your donation ensures that Magen David Adom’s 33,000 paramedics, EMTS, first responders, and first-aid providers have the training, equipment, and medical supplies they need. 

    Urge Elected Leaders to Stand with Israel: Please urge your elected officials to speak out and make a clear and unequivocal statement in support for our ally Israel and its right to defend itself. Fill out this Jewish Federations of North America form to get connected with your representative. 

    American Jewish Community’s National Mobilization Week: From December 4-8, the American Jewish community will join together for a National Mobilization Week to advocate for Israel. During these important days of action, we aim to generate thousands of calls into congressional offices urging our elected officials to stand with Israel as it fights to protect its people and destroy Hamas.

    CALL YOUR SENATOR/REPRESENTATIVE:  Anti-Israel activists are calling members of Congress to no longer provide aid to Israel and to condemn Israel in the wake of the war against Hamas. Make your voice heard by calling your elected officials today to make it clear that they stand with our ally Israel against Hamas terrorism.

    The message:
    I am one of many pro-Israel Americans in Pennsylvania. I urge the Senator/Representative to stand with Israel and oppose a ceasefire with Hamas.

    Phone Numbers:
    Senator Robert Casey | 202.224.6324
    Senator John Fetterman | 202.224.4254
    Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick – 1st District | 202.225.4276
    Rep. Brendan Boyle – 2nd District | 202.225.6111
    Rep. Dwight Evans – 3rd District | 202.225.4001
    Rep. Madeleine Dean – 4th District | 202.225.4731
    Rep. Mary Gay Scanlon – 5th District | 202.225.2011
    Rep. Chrissy Houlahan – 6th District | 202.225.4315

    Urge Social Media Platforms to Follow Better Content Moderation: People in large numbers are going on social media to help make sense of Hamas’ war on Israel. Since the October 7 Hamas’ massacre of innocent civilians, ADL is monitoring a surge of antisemitism, anti-Muslim hate, fake news and propaganda being spread on social media. We know there are risks in both over-moderation and under-moderation, but there are steps all social media companies can take right now to, at least, help ensure they are not fanning the flames. To learn more, click here.

    Israelis and friends that are living abroad: There are many Israelis that are currently stuck abroad because of the war. They are sad, scared, and probably out of money. If you or anyone you know will generously be willing to host Israeli travelers until they will be able to get back home, please fill out this form. 

    Philly UnXeptable We started a digital campaign on moving trucks with large TV screens showing the faces of the hostages in Gaza in order to increase awareness here in Philadelphia. We currently have the budget from donations for the next two weeks for two trucks that will drive around local universities and Center City. See video of trucks here. We would be happy to proceed with this campaign beyond the two weeks as needed (we of course hope it won’t be that long). If you are interested in supporting this initiative please let us know.  https://venmo.com/u/Amit-Serusi.

    Send Your Message of Support to Israel: Show your support for Israel by sending a message below. Your message of love, hope and care will be sent out to the families living and soldiers stationed in the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia’s partnership communities of Sdot Negev and Netivot, which border Gaza and are subjected to an onslaught of terror.  Send a message by clicking here.
    Baking the hostages favorite sweet treats and sharing their story: 134 Israelis are currently held hostage in Gaza. Each individual among them has a name, a face, family, friends, hobbies—and a favorite cookie. So, bake their favorite cookie and include it along with their personal story in your Mishloach Manot. Together, we will shine a light on their situation and ensure that everyone remembers they are still there. Click here for recipes and more about Tastes Like Home.

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    Overseas Volunteers in Israel (Updated: November 10, 2023)

    In an exceptional move reflecting the important role volunteers are playing in the current crisis, Israel’s National Insurance Institute (the equivalent of America’s Social Security Administration) has announced that it will provide insurance for Israeli ex pat volunteers who wish to volunteer.

    At present, there are only limited opportunities open to foreign volunteers. These opportunities include:

    • Birthright Israel has opened a volunteering program where people from outside of Israel can come to Tel Aviv and take part in food rescue operations to prevent shortages in the Israeli market, including work to sort, pack and distribute goods for civil and military personnel.
    • Leket Israel and HaShomer HaChadash are recruiting volunteers to help in farms and warehouses facing labor shortages.
    • Sar-El, The National Project for Volunteers for Israel, runs programs for volunteers on Israel Defense Force bases, focusing on logistical support.

    Nefesh B’Nefesh, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, will activate to bring people to Israel. They are actively collecting names of doctors who would be willing to volunteer should the need arise. https://www.nbn.org.il/dr_volunteer/  . Nurses and paramedics from abroad looking to volunteer can visit the MOH website and submit their information there.

    Report Antisemitic Incidences: People in large numbers are going on social media to help make sense of Hamas’ war on Israel. Since the October 7 Hamas’ massacre of innocent civilians, ADL is monitoring a surge of antisemitism, anti-Muslim hate, fake news and propaganda being spread on social media. We know there are risks in both over-moderation and under-moderation, but there are steps all social media companies can take right now to, at least, help ensure they are not fanning the flames. To learn more, click here.
    Combat Disinformation Online: The amount of information against Israel can feel overwhelming. However, it has been proven that much of the most inflammatory content on the Internet is not human-generated and does not necessarily represent public opinion. Right now, disinformation about Israel and Hamas is spreading on social media. These are tactics of the war against Israel’s legitimacy, are methods of dehumanizing the Jewish people, and are part of broader efforts to sow divisions in our society.

    As the situation progresses and our emotions run high, it can be tempting to immediately comment on and/or share what we see online. But now, more than ever, it’s important for us to take the time to carefully assess what we’re reading and respond thoughtfully.

    Click here to see guidelines and talking points. You call learn more about combating disinformation from StandWithUs.

    Support Jewish Students on college campuses: Student groups like Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) across the country have condoned terrorism and violence, glorifying Hamas’s atrocities. These groups are also voicing an increasingly radical call for “dismantling” Zionism. This kind of rhetoric is dangerous and increasingly risks creating a hostile environment for Jewish and Israeli students on campus. For more information on how to email the administration and urge them to take action to protect the safety and wellbeing of Jewish students on campus go to ADL’s website: https://www.adl.org/support-jewish-students-college-campuses

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    Trusted Sites for News and Resources:

    • Comcast (Xfinity) channel 1118 is a 24 hour Israel/Mideast News TV Channel airing breaking news specials, discussions and analyses.
    • The Jewish Telegraph Agency is another source to get new and upcoming information, to visit their website – click here.
    • USCJ has compiled a vast list of Israel resources for the Jewish Community, click here to view their page.
    • Moving Traditions has released a special edition discussion guide for educators, which parents and others with teens in their lives may also find useful: Israel at War, Caring for Ourselves and One Another.
    • Click here to see the full live stream of the speeches during the rally for Israel hosted by the Jewish Federation earlier this week. Community member Jacob Weiner shares his thoughts at 24:18 in the video.
    • Click here to see the full live stream of the speeches from the November 14th DC rally.
    • The ADL has developed resources and tools to help guide challenging conversations about the war in Israel and antisemitism in North America. Click here to visit their page that helps you understand what’s happening, talk about what’s happening and address antisemitism and anti-Zionism.

    In Their Light: 8 Stories of Bravery from October 7th
    In Their Light spotlights eight inspiring stories of courage and heroism shown by men and women during the early events of October 7 in the face of terrorism by Hamas. Click here to visit their website.

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    Tefillah Resources

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    Be sure to stop by the BZBI Sisterhood gift shop to purchase our blue and white candles in support of Israel!

    Proceeds from the sale will be donated to organizations that support Israel. Books and coloring books for children are also available. The Sisterhood gift shop is open by appointment only, contact the office to make yours.

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    #BlueRibbonsforIsrael is a unity campaign in support of the safe return of the hostages taken by Hamas terrorists in Israel. It symbolizes solidarity with the hostages, their families, and all who care about their safety.  BZBI has ordered enough blue ribbons for the entire congregation. Pick yours up in the Sanctuary this Shabbat. 

    We Stand with Israel signs are available.  Pick yours up at the synagogue today!

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    Join ADL in thanking your Philadelphia City Councilmembers for passing a resolution unequivocally denouncing Hamas’s violent attacks against Israeli civilians and urge them to take steps to make Philadelphia safe for all, regardless of faith or nationality. 

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    Urge Congress to Support Israel’s Right to Self-Defense

    Please join this important campaign, and make sure our collective voices are heard loud and clear.  Anti-Israel extremists in the U.S. are pressuring Members of Congress to prevent Israel from defending itself, after Hamas terrorists brutally massacred over 1,400 Israelis and took hundreds of hostages into Gaza.

    EMAIL, TWEET, and CALL your representatives, urging them to stand with the people of Israel in their fight against Hamas.

    CLICK HERE, SIGN, AND SEND THIS TO FRIENDS.

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    Medical Organizations in need of Volunteers in Israel 

    The Israeli health care system is excellent but at this point is overtaxed and reaching out for volunteers from abroad to provide tigboret (supplementary help).  Keshet has compiled a list of medical facilities looking for volunteers and relevant information.  Please note that volunteers are not only needed immediately but also for the upcoming months and hospitals are compiling lists of potential volunteers. While fluency in Hebrew is an asset, many of the medical staff and patients reflect the diversity of Israeli society and speak English, French, Russian, and Spanish. For more information, click here. 

    • Israel Ministry of Health – Medical Volunteers for Israel
    • Soroka Hospital
    • Hadassah Medical Organization and Hospitals
    • Adi Rehabilitation Villages – Negev and Jerusalem
    • APF – Emergency Medical Volunteer Registry For Israel
    • Non-medical Volunteers for hospitals

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    Webinar/ Briefings Recordings 

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    Sima’s Stitchers
    Wednesdays, from 4:00 – 6:00 PM in the Klinghoffer Chapel

    Please be in contact with Ellen or Eileen if you are interested in joining the group or learning how to knit.  All creations will be donated to Project Home and the Bethesda Project. 

    The young men and women serving in the IDF are in need of black caps to use as helmet liners. They prefer those that are hand knit as they provide the most cushion under their helmets. If you want to learn to knits these caps, Sima’s stitchers, our BZBI knitting circle meets every Wednesday in the Chapel from 4:00 to 6:00 PM. If you already know how to knit and aren’t able to come on Wednesdays, we hope you will consider making these hats at home in your spare time.

    Hats_for_Soldiers (1)

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    Family Resources

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    Mental Health Resources

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