Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, Inc., reaffirms its steadfast dedication to Zionism and firm commitment to the Jerusalem Program, the official platform of the World Zionist Organization and the international Zionist movement. The Jerusalem Program proclaims Zionism as the national liberation movement of the Jewish people, which brought about the establishment of the State of Israel, and views a Jewish, Zionist, democratic and secure State of Israel to be the expression of the common responsibility of the Jewish people for its continuity and future. Furthermore, Hadassah believes it is especially relevant in light of worldwide increased anti-Zionism, often masking anti-Semitism, to reaffirm our commitment to Zionism.
Hadassah believes it is our responsibility to help ensure the continuity of the Jewish people both in Israel and the Diaspora, and contribute to the betterment of the world through life-saving medical care, research in service to humanity, and other acts of tikkun olam (repairing the world). As Hadassah members, Associates, and supporters, we express our practical Zionism by supporting the Hadassah Medical Organization and other Hadassah projects in Israel, and by promoting and engaging in Zionist education and advocacy in the United States and worldwide.
Hadassah’s foundation is rooted in practical Zionism, and it is imperative to our mission and guiding principles to advocate and nurture what the Jerusalem Program refers to as “mutual Jewish responsibility to defending the rights of Jews as individuals and as a nation, to represent the national Zionist interests of the Jewish people and struggle against all manifestations of anti-Zionism.” Hadassah reaffirms its condemnation of any linkage between Zionism and racism, its long-standing policy against all forms of organized boycotts, and denounces the systematic global campaign to delegitimize the State of Israel.
Hadassah is committed to addressing and changing the current negative connotations of Zionism in an increasingly anti-Zionist world. Through renewed and strengthened education, advocacy and discourse we are committed to proudly declaring our Zionism and in doing so to create a safe space to interact with and educate the wider public. Hadassah recognizes that many in our community are passionate when we discuss Israel and are deeply committed to individual ideas for how best to support and defend the Jewish homeland. In order to ensure that there is room for all members of the Jewish community to join the discussion, we must listen and respect those who share opinions that differ from our own and emphasize what unites us— shared identity, love of Israel, and commitment to Jewish traditions and values—not what divides us.