Appeal for Funds
Relief and Self-Defense
The President of the Federation has issued the following letter to Zionist Societies.
Brothers and Sisters of Zion:
The twice-told tale is being repeated, and we are again mourners. All of Israel is now as Mother Rachel weeping for her chilren; and the blood of our brothers and sisters is crying out to us from the lands of oppression. We, who are their brothers and sisters in the hope of Zion, must answer their cry.
This is not a time for parties and for factions; it is not a time for putting forward our social, or our religious or our political views. It is a time to emphasize the principle upon which our Zionism is based: The unity of Israel
It is our duty, therefore, as Zionists, to unite with our fellow-Jews of all shades of belief in order that, by this unity of action Israel may be relieved of some of his distress. This is a time for the giving of immediate relief. It is not a time for theories. Alas, that our national feelings must be stirred to the very depths by such calamities.
Every Zionist society is herewith called upon to join the Jewish Defense Association, which was formed in New York on
Monday, November 6th. This association is composed of societies representing all shades of opinion in Jewry, both radical and conservative. Societies are asked to send to this office a word signifying their union with this Association. It is expected that the Jewish Defense Association will embrace thousands of societies throughout the land.
The treasurer of the Jewish Defense Association is Mr. Jacob Schiff, and all money sent to this office for the Jewish Defense Association will be turned over to Mr. Schiff.
Societies are asked to hold meetings for the sake of collecting funds, if possible in conjunction with other Jewish societies; and if this be not possible, to hold them alone.
The Jewish Defense Association asks of every Jew that he contribute at least ten per cent of one month's rent to the fund. Notice will be given of the forms which demonstrations all over the country will take.
Brothers and sisters of Zion, let us join hands with all of our brethren, with those who are oppressed, and with those who wish to relieve the distress of our people.
HARRY FRIEDENWALD, President,J. L. MAGNES, Secretary.