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B'nai B'rith 9/8/92 [OA 7579] [3]
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B'nai B'rith 9/8/92 [OA 7579] [3]
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Records of the White House Office of Speechwriting (George H. W. Bush Administration)
Speech Backup Chronological Files
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Originally Processed With FOIA(s):
FOIA Number:
S
S
FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
Collection/Office of Origin:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File Backup Files
Subseries:
Chron File, 1989-1993
OA/ID Number:
13830
Folder ID Number:
13830-009
Folder Title:
B'nai B'rith 9/8/92 [OA 7579] [3]
Stack:
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
Position:
G
26
22
7
6
Attachment M
Page 1
Bush
Quayle
*****
******
VICE PRESIDENT GEORGE BUSH
ON ISSUES OF CONCERN TO THE AMERICAN JEWISH COMMUNITY
Israel and the Middle East
"I oppose the creation of an independent Palestinian state."
George Bush's Middle East Position Paper
July 1988
"Eight years ago, strategic partnership with Israel was a dream of many
of those who came into the Reagan-Bush Administration. Today, we've
translated it into reality. And this is my pledge: the American-Israeli
strategic partnership is going to be even stronger tomorrow!"
Address to the B'nai B'rith International Convention
Baltimore, Maryland
September 7, 1988
"Israel is our strongest friend in the Middle East, for democracy
We have a commitment to keep their qualitative edge superior to that of all
the Arab countries together."
Response to question during Republican Presidential
candidates' debate
Atlanta, Georgia
February 28, 1988
"...no wedge will be driven between the United States and Israel, because
Israel is our friend and strategic ally."
Toast at State Department dinner honoring
Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Shamir
March 16, 1988
733 15th Street, N.W. Suite 800 Washington, D.C. 20005 202/842-1988
Attachment M
page 2
The United Nations
"[W]e shall not be party to a proceeding by the U.N. or any other
international group to deny Israel's legitimacy or to force her to accept a bad
deal. We are not going to do that. As far as I'm concerned, when it comes
to the Middle East, the U.N. General Assembly renders itself irrelevant because
of the infamous 'Zionism is Racism' resolution. It is wrong."
B'nai B'rith International Convention
September 7, 1988
"[W]e will never allow the United Nations or any other multilateral
institution to place Israel's or America's security interests at risk.
"The domination of the United Nations by nations hostile to both the
U.S. and Israel has diminished the usefulness of the organization in the
region. The U.S. will not allow the United Nations Security Council to become
a forum for one-sided resolutions against our allies, including Israel.
"The continued existence of United Nations General Assembly Resolution
3379 which equates Zionism with racism constitutes a fatal flaw in the ability
of that organization to serve a useful purpose in the region. We will seek
repeal of this Resolution. Failure to repeal that Resolution will justify
attenuation of our support of the United Nations to reflect its diminished
effectiveness in international affairs. Moreover, the U.S. will withdraw from
the United Nations if Israel is ever denied membership."
Middle East Position Paper
July 1988
"The Soviets' Arab allies would like to expel Israel from the [United
Nations]... I want to repeat the pledge that I have taken and certainly the
President has taken and that really is now United States law, and if Israel is
ever thrown out of the U.N., American leaves with it. And that's a
fundamental commitment."
Remarks to the National Jewish Coalition
Washington, D.C.
April 29, 1987
Attachment M
page 3
"I admire and support the way [Jeane Kirkpatrick] has stood up to the
obscene anti-Semitism so often heard in U.N. debate. Under this
Administration, the United States will not let go unchallenged attempts to
equate Zionism with racism. We know those charges for what they are -- just
another mask for vicious anti-Semitism."
Remarks to the Zionist Organization of America
Washington, D.C.
October 27, 1984
"And there's one other thing you know, but let me repeat it here: If
Israel is ever voted out of the U.N., the United States will walk out with it."
Address to the Republican Jewish Coalition
Washington, D.C.
September 14, 1984
The PLO and a Palestinian State
"As for the PLO, I will insist that unless the PLO accepts U.N.
Resolutions 242 and 338, recognize Israel's existence, abandon terrorism, and
change its covenant calling for Israel's destruction, the U.S. will not recognize
or have any discussions with that organization. I will insist not only because
we have made a promise to Israel, but because it is the right thing to do."
"If the PLO cannot meet these principled conditions, then it is obviously
not capable of either negotiating or delivering peace."
"I have made very clear that i am opposed to an independent Palestinian
state for a simple reason. Such a state would be a threat to the security of
Israel and of Jordan, which is crucial to any lasting settlement of the conflict.
And, I would add, it would also be contrary to American interests.
"Anyone who has trouble making up his mind on this issue, or who
proposes to leave it open, just doesn't understand the dangers to Israel and to
the United States; just doesn't understand the very real threats that continue
to exist. My Administration would not support the creation of any Palestinian
entity that would jeopardize Israel's security -- our strategic ally."
"The creation of a Palestinian state will not lead to peace."
B'nai B'rith International Convention
September 7, 1988
"The U.S. will not support any role in the peace process for the PLO
unless it recognizes Israel's right to exist, accepts the United Nations
Resolutions 242 and 338, renounces terrorism and removes language from its
charter demanding Israel's destruction."
Middle East Position Paper
July 1988
Attachment M
page 4
"I do not support the creation of an independent Palestinian state. I
reject the possibility of dealing with the PLO until it renounces terrorism and
violence and accepts U.N. Resolutions 242 and 338. Peace treaties must be
reached through bilateral negotiations and must never be imposed on unwilling
participants."
"I recognize Israel's responsibility to restore law and order The
Palestinians, on the other hand, have the responsibility not to engage in
violence and disorderly conduct."
Response to Des Moines Register questionnaire
February 4, 1988
"[U]ntil the PLO agrees to 230, 242 and 338, those basic U.N. resolutions,
and until they renounce terror, until they take out of their charter 'the
destruction of the Zionist entity' and accept Israel's right to exist, the United
State will not recognize the PLO nor have discussions with them. The PLO
can't be a party to international conferences with this onus hanging over their
head."
Remarks to the National Jewish Coalition
Washington, D.C.
April 29, 1987
"If we're to wipe out international terrorism, we must be ready to put
the foot down and put it down firmly. No half measures. As an American, I
say that if that means being ready to strike at Qadaffi or anyone like him if
we once again find irrefutable evidence of responsibility for an act of terror
against Americans, so be it. we've done it once. We're ready to do it again."
Chagall Hall, the Knesset
Jerusalem, Israel
July 30, 1986
"It's common sense that in diplomacy any government or organization
that embraces terrorism should be treated as an outcast. First among these is
the PLO. The PLO has an appalling record of sponsoring terrorism against
innocent civilians."
"This last year we have acted as never before -- in seeking extradition
of the Achille Lauro hijackers from Italy and of the TWA hijackers from
Lebanon and putting a price on the head of the PLO leader of the Achille
Lauro hijacking."
Address at Yeshiva University
New York City
December 5, 1985
Attachment M
page 5.
"We remain committed as well to a very simple proposition concerning
negotiations of any kind. The PLO sponsors terrorism, and its charter still
calls for the destruction of the 'Zionist entity'. So long as the PLO refuses
to recognize Israel's right to exist and to accept Security Council Resolutions
242 and 338, the United States will neither recognize nor negotiate with the
PLO."
Address to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee
Washington, D.C.
April 9, 1984
"The Palestinians must accept the reality and the legitimacy of Israel.
Palestinians must understand that the satisfaction of their legitimate rights is
directly tied to their recognition of Israel's right to exist."
Washington Press Club
Washington, D.C.
September 23, 1982
"The PLO -- and let there be no doubt about this -- is nothing more or
less than an international Ku Klux Klan, pledged to hatred, violence and the
destruction of the values and free institutions we hold dear."
Address to the Zionist Organization of America
Washington, D.C.
October 19, 1980
Strategic Partnership
"Back in 1980, we had an idea and it was called "Israel, strategic ally."
It was a simple idea and a big one. We believed that Israel was not just the
object of our sympathy and our goodwill but a full-fledged partner with the
United States. A partner fully capable of contributing to our security."
"...some people still have trouble saying the words, 'Israel, strategic ally.'
Well, I don't. Israel, strategic ally. It's got a nice ring to it. The ring of
hard, enduring reality.
"What are the results of our efforts?
"Today, the United States and Israel are engaged in joint planning on
mutual threats in the Mediterranean. Eight years ago, joint planning was not
even in the dictionary of U.S.-Israeli relations.
"Today, the United States and Israel have prepositioned supplies and are
building an infrastructure to deal with emergencies. Eight years ago, a former
President regarded Israel as a strategic liability -- can you figure that? -- not
an asset to U.S. action in the Middle East.
Attachment M
page 6
"Today, the United States and Israel engage in joint military exercises.
Eight years ago, the ships of the sixth fleet were often forbidden even to buy
fruits and vegetables from Israel.
"Today, Israel, through its own hard efforts and U.S. aid, has dropped
inflation from nearly 1000 percent to under 20 percent. It's economy has
begun to grow again. Eight years ago, U.S. aid to Israel was thought of as a
weapon, a way to force Israel to do what it didn't want to do.
"Today, we have a model free-trade agreement with Israel, of benefit to
both countries. Eight years ago, this idea hadn't even been discussed, much
less put on the agenda for action.
"Today, the United States and Israel are partners in developing new
technology, whether it be drones to gather intelligence at less risk to our
pilots or the new, urgent project of defense against tactical missiles, part of
the Strategic Defense Initiative. Eight years ago, we could only admire
Israel's technological achievements from afar, not be partners in their
development.
"U.S.-Israeli cooperation is fundamental to our strategic interests. No
threat, no stone thrown, is strong enough to divide us. No wedge will be
driven between us."
"We need that partnership. It is in our self-interest as well as
America's, not least to deter a Soviet Union still building its military strength
in the area. Talk to the sailors and the pilots of our Sixth Fleet as they
contemplate the expansion of a Soviet sea power, recently reinforced by the
Soviet development of a base at Tartus, in Syria. They know Israel as a
friendly place -- these Sixth Fleet boys -- and they are reassured knowing
that Israel and the United States are always on the same side!"
B'nai B'rith International Convention
September 7, 1988
"No longer is Israel simply a democratic nation which share America's
religious and immigrant origins, Israel shares our security burden as well.
"Israel is a strategic ally to the U.S. By virtue of its military capability
and the values and political objectives it shares with the U.S., Israel
buttresses the alliance in its most vulnerable area -- the southern region of
NATO and the Eastern Mediterranean. By establishing appropriate policies and
institutions, the goals of strategic cooperation with Israel has been achieved.
It will be sustained through continued security and economic assistance to
Israel, and expansion of existing elements of strategic cooperation including
joint exercises, pre-positioning of dual-use stockpiles (including combat
equipment, spare parts and ammunition), intelligence sharing and contingency
planning. These measures will serve to strengthen American military power
and influence in the Eastern Mediterranean."
Middle East position paper
July 1988
Attachment M
page 7
"Israel -- because of our shared values -- is our foremost strategic friend
in the Middle East."
"We're purchasing Israeli-made weapons, and the U.S. and Israel are
negotiating to build jointly missiles, submarines and reconnaissance drones. we
have invited Israel to participate in strategic defense research, and Israel has
accepted.
"Our Navy is leasing and maintaining Kfir fighters, for use in training.
The Kfir resembles the MIG 23 more closely than any plane we have.
"Our Navy also has a shore leave agreement with Israel. Haifa is one of
the few friendly ports left in that area of the world."
Address at Yeshiva University
New York City
December 5, 1985
"We remain totally committed to maintaining Israel's qualitative edge in
armaments over any possible combination of adversaries."
Address to the Republican Jewish Coalition
Washington, D.C.
September 14, 1984
U.S.-Israel Relations
"...I wrote to Prime Minister Shamir on Israel's Independence Day: 'I
want you to know that I, the President and the American people stand with
you and your country. We shall never falter or waver in our support.' Israel
has won a special place in America's heart and Israel has given America a new
perspective on history."
B'nai B'rith International Convention
September 7, 1988
"The Bush Presidency will take advantage of the new relationship built
with Israel during the Reagan-Bush Administration to enhance the prospects
for regional peace and security."
"Israel and America are both nations of immigrants. Both were founded
by people fleeing religious persecution. Both were born of revolution. Both
have a frontier heritage. Both are established on the values embodied in the
Holy Scriptures. Both are democracies, conceived in liberty and dedicated to
the proposition that all men are created equal. Both cherish the fundamental
rights of man -- freedom of speech, freedom of the press and freedom of
worship. And this is important."
Middle East position paper
July 1988
Attachment M
page 8
"I am proud of how close our countries have grown in the past seven
years. We are and will remain strategic partners politically, militarily and
economically.
"It is my hope that our mutual trust during the Reagan Administration
will continue in the years ahead. And if I have anything to say about it, it
will."
Toast at State Department dinner honoring
Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Shamir
March 16, 1988
"My commitment to Israel's security is unshakable."
"Israel remains a light of hope for millions, as well as our faithfully ally
in the Middle East, and we will never abandon her people.
"The security and freedom of Israel are fundamental to both American
strength and Middle East stability. Of equal importance is our moral
obligation to the people of Israel. This means simply put, that Israel must be
able to count on American political and economic support and military
assistance."
Response to Des Moines Register questionnaire
February 4, 1988
"A threat to Israel is a threat to the United States."
"Prime Minister Shamir, Foreign Minister Peres and others have publicly
stated that relations between Israel and the United States have never been
better. I'm proud to have played a part in that."
"[U]nder the Reagan-Bush administration, our relations have reached a
new pinnacle. We have institutionalized our strategic relationship in way that
provides Israel with more security than at any time since 1948."
Response to Moment magazine questionnaire
November 1987
"The Pollard matter is not going to undermine the important strategic
relationship that exists, because it is in the interest of the United States of
America."
"[W]e've taken steps to help ensure the health of Israel's economy.
We've converted aid from loans to grants. Last year we gave $3 billion in
economic and military assistance, and this year we're giving Israel around $3
billion and pledging to provide at least that much next year."
Remarks to the National Jewish Coalition
Washington, D.C.
April 29, 1987
Attachment M
page 9
"Our friendship is deep and it is permanent."
"I've always thought it was a mistake to bet against Israel -- an old
mistake, in fact, one that was first made by the pharaoh who inscribed the
earliest known reference to Israel, outside of the Bible. The year was 1230
B.C. The pharaoh was glorying in his recent victories. He wrote, and how's
this for getting it wrong: 'Israel has perished; its seed is no more.' Well, I'll
bet on Israel."
Chagall Hall, the Knesset
Jerusalem, Israel
July 30, 1986
"Jerusalem must remain undivided..."
"America is also committed to assisting in the development of Israeli
economic self-efficiency."
Address to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee
Washington, D.C.
April 9, 1984
"Israel and the United States have been friends for too long to have to
make apologies to each other. We have none to make, none to accept. We
don't dictate policy to each other. We're strategic allies. We don't put each
other on trial. We don't test each other. We consult. We agree, we
disagree. But whatever our disagreements, we are bound to each other: in
the cause of freedom, in the cause of survival. We are permanent friends,
joined by common values and aspirations."
"Let no one divide America and Israel. And let us never lose our faith
in each other. Let us always remember that our hope, and our strength, is in
each other. And that loyalty to one is loyalty to both; and that together we
shall always endure."
Address to the Young Leadership Cabinet
of the United Jewish Appeal
Washington, D.C.
March 15, 1982
"Whatever threatens the freedom and security of Israel threatens the
freedom and security of the United States."
Address to the Zionist Organization of America
Washington, D.C.
October 19, 1980
Attachment M
page 10
The Peace Process
"Peace will be achieved through direct negotiations by the parties. It
cannot be imposed. It cannot be evaded. The United States stands ready to
help such a negotiation, as we have done on a bipartisan basis since the early
seventies.
"The purpose of a negotiation is real peace. Peace for Israel. Peace for
her neighbors. That's what it is all about. We have stood together for too
long through too many crises with too many lives sacrificed to settle for an
armistice, or a temporary truce or a false peace. Egypt has shown the way.
It's time for others to follow."
B'nai B'rith International Convention
September 7, 1988
"...direct negotiations are the only viable means of securing peace
between Israel and its neighbors. The U.S. cannot and will not impose a
settlement, nor will we be a party to any effort to do so through a
multilateral entity."
Middle East position paper
July 1988
Peace "will not result from pressure and threats -- or from PLO terrorist
attacks on buses. It will come only through reconciliation and the
recognition of Israel's right to exist as a free and secure state. It cannot be
imposed by us or anyone else, and it can only be reached by direct
negotiations between Israel and its neighbor states."
Toast at State Department dinner honoring
Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Shamir
March 16, 1988
"I know Israel's government actively seeks and wants peace...and the way
to peace is for all parties to sit down, face to face, and explore all avenues to
a negotiated settlement."
"Negotiations must take into account the security needs to Israel..."
Response to Des Moines Register questionnaire
February 4, 1988
"It is long past time for Israeli and Arab to sit together, face to face, as
they did at Camp David.
Washington Press Club
Washington, D.C.
September 23, 1982
Attachment M
page 12
Soviet Jewry
"I just noticed the banner on the wall: 'Where do Soviet Jews apply for
Glasnost?'
"I fully endorse the question. We cannot stop caring about the plight of
others around the world."
B'nai B'rith International Convention
September 7, 1988
"[W]e should not repeal the Jackson-Vanik amendment."
"Mr. Gorbachev: Let these people go!"
"Now Mr. Gorbachev has embarked on a policy of glasnost, or openness.
But openness begins at the borders. Let's see not five or six or 10 or 20
refuseniks released at a time, but thousands, tens of thousands -- all those
who want to go. And those who want to stay -- let them practice their
religion in freedom. Let them study Hebrew; let them pray in their own
synagogues; let them hear the Voice of Israel; let them lead Jewish lives.
"The human rights issue is now a permanent part of the U.S.-Soviet
agenda I will personally raise it with Mr. Gorbachev. I will not be satisfied
until the promise of Helsinki is a reality."
"I pressed [Natan Sharansky's] case at every opportunity."
Remarks at Freedom Sunday for Soviet Jewry
Washington, D.C.
December 6, 1987
"I am proud of the efforts of the President and I have made to stop the
harassment of Soviet Jews and to permit free emigration. I'll never be happy
until the promise of Helsinki is a reality..."
Moment magazine
November 1987
"As the first American to meet with each of teh last three leaders of the
Soviet Union, I told them how strongly we feel about the right to pray free
of persecution, about human rights."
"I loved it when George Shultz held that Seder with the refuseniks in
Moscow."
National Jewish Coalition
April 29, 1987
Attachment M
page 13
Anti-Semitism
The Holocaust and OSI
"[T]he Reagan-Bush Administration supports OSI - the Nazi-hunting
Office of Special Investigations, and I will support it as President. Over the
last eight years the OSI budget has been raised, and as President I will
continue to support its investigations against Nazi war criminals residing in
America."
B'nai B'rith International Convention
September 7, 1988
"Here ground is consecrated to the victims of an evil far more vast than
any in human history -- here is sadness, here is anguished tribute to the six
million whose murder stains this century.
"Here, too, is hope hope in you who have passed through the inferno,
hope for the persistence of Jewish dreams."
"I have the honor in standing with some of the survivors and saying we
shall never forget."
Remarks at the Holocaust Memorial Monument
Skokie, Illinois
October 17, 1988
"I have been to Yad Vashem. And I have been to Auschwitz. I have
seen the mounds of human hair, the eyeglasses and the toothbrushes and the
tiny children's shoes all that remains of the millions of victims who died
there. I have seen the empty canisters of poison gas.
"[W]e cannot be silent... The lesson of these places is that never again
can we remain silent about the abuse of human rights - never again!
"I came away from Auschwitz determined not just to remember the
Holocaust, but determined to renew our commitment to human rights around
the world. I found myself thinking, 'If we in the United States are not strong
enough, not courageous enough to stand up to human rights, who will? Who
in God's name will?'
"Elie Wiesel said, 'In extreme situations, when human lives and dignity
are at stake, neutrality is a sin."
Freedom Sunday for Soviet Jewry
December 6, 1987
Attachment M
page 14
"The brutal and tragic horrors of Auschwitz serve as grim reminders of
man's capacity for evil. The denial of human rights leads ultimately to this,
the attempted extermination of an entire people."
"As Elie Wiesel told me a few weeks ago, 'Not all victims were Jews, but
all Jews were victims."
"Let us all pledge today our eternal vigilance that crimes of this
[Holocaust] magnitude will happen never again -- for it has been written that
'In remembrance lies the secret of redemption."
Remarks at dedication of U.S. Consulate
Krakow, Poland
September 29, 1987
"Six million innocents were killed in nations which had been regarded as
great islands of civilization. The fire of human life -- with its capacity for
joy and thought, courage and love -- was snuffed out by the whim of men
whose capacity for sadism and self-delusion, fear and hatred was left
unchecked to do its worst.
"And our souls weep for the horror of it.
"By remembering, as we do now, we strengthen our conviction never to
stand silent in the face of anti-Semitism."
Address to the National Civic Commemoration of the Holocaust
(Days of Remembrance)
Washington, D.C.
April 1984
"The Holocaust is no metaphor; it is truth."
"It is said that each step Hitler took, he took only after he saw the
world fail to respond. May this Holocaust Memorial Museum serve as the
special beacon of light to all future generations -- assaulting our indifference,
demanding our involvement, arresting our selfishness, and accosting every last
trace of our isolationism, both personally, and as a nation."
"I have visited Yad Vashem -- the Holocaust museum in Jerusalem. I
know the profound sense of loss that memorial impresses upon its visitors."
Presentation of the Key to the United States Holocaust
Memorial Museum and Education Center
Washington, D.C.
April 11, 1983
Attachment M
page 16
"Racial, ethnic and religious discrimination have no part in [democratic]
tradition [U]nder this Administration the Justice Department has filed more
criminal charges on civil rights violations, brought more violators to trial and
achieved more civil rights convictions than ever before."
"[U]nder the leadership of Walter Mondale, the Democratic Party in its
convention in San Francisco was unable and unwilling to ratify what the
overwhelming majority of the American people stand for -- a resolution, a
simple resolution, condemning anti-Semitism and disassociating the Democratic
Party from bigotry in all forms.
"We adopted such a plank condemning anti-Semitism at our convention
last August in Dallas. It was the right thing to do."
American Israel Public Affairs Committee
April 9, 1984
"Recently a prominent supporter of the Reverend Jesse Jackson -- a Black
Muslim Minister [Louis Farrakhan] -- got a lot of press when he threatened a
reporter. In itself this threat was a revolting injection of the specter of
violence into the campaign. But several weeks before he had threatened all
Jews.
"Yesterday's Washington Post noted that it's a 'disgrace' that Reverend
Jackson 'has refused to disavow unequivocally' this kind of extreme statement
and that he 'continues to distance himself from his responsibilities in this
affair.'
"I tell you here and now for the President and the entire administration
that we denounce and intrusion of anti-Semitism into the American political
process and believe it has no place in our system."
American Israel Public Affairs Committee
April 9, 1984
Church-State
"I embrace, respect and support the wall that separates [church and
state] and I would neither tear it down nor would I allow it to erode."
]
"I see the wall between church and state is like the fence in Robert
Frost's 'Good Fences Make Good Neighbors'. The church and state are
Good Good fene gnbors
neighbors.
"But we've got to remember tolerance. In a pluralistic democracy, we
must give each other a little spiritual breathing room. Religion isn't a
problem in America, but sometimes intolerance is.
As I look at areas where maybe we can do better it is to convey this
deep sense of tolerance that I feel, and sometimes I'm not sure that has come
across as clearly as it should."
"[We should] not have a mandated prayer."
National Jewish Coalition
April 29, 1987
Attachment M
page 17
"I don't claim to agree with everything that everybody in the evangelical
movement stands for."
"[A] small minority now want control. There are those who would seek
to impose their will and dictate their interpretation of morality on the rest of
society."
"There are those who forget the need for tolerance."
"A basic question is: How can we develop values in our children without
intimidating the rights of minority faiths or those of no faith at all?"
"We must be vigilant, but not overzealous."
Address to the National Religious Broadcasters
reported in the Jewish World
February 13, 1987
Quotas
"We as Americans have an obligation to our most sacred traditions to
defend the fundamental pluralism of American life. That means battling
against quotas."
Zionist Organization of America
October 27, 1984
Nearly half a million Jews have left the Soviet Union since
I last spoke to you four years ago.
Re MIDRASH quote: The Midrash is commentary on the Bible.
An appropriate attribution for the President to make when
citing the quote is "The Rabbis tell us, "Separate reeds are
"
At very end of speech. Re Elul: This is a perfect time to
come together because of what the Rabbis tell us of the
month of Elul -- that this is a time not only for
reconciliation between the Jewish people and God, but also a
time for families to grow closer, for enemies to become.
friends, for grudges to be wiped away. This is a time to
celebrate peace talks, to come together to help victims of
human tragedies, to reach out to ancient enemies. This is a
time for repentance, for prayer, for charity.
PAGE
2
1ST STORY of Level 1 printed in FULL format.
Copyright 1992 The Jerusalem Post
The Jerusalem Post
August 28, 1992, Friday
SECTION: News
LENGTH: 880 words
HEADLINE: Kupat Holim threatens to close clinics, slash hospital hours Health
fund says it lacks NIS 60m. needed to pay wages
BYLINE: JUDY SIEGEL
KEYWORD: Kupat Holim Clalit, Hospital, Finance, Government, Service, Wages, Debt
HIGHLIGHT:
Kupat Holim Clalit workers yesterday threatened to close down 1,300 community
health fund clinics and put its 14 hospitals on a reduced Shabbat schedule
starting September 6 if they do not receive their August paychecks by then.
BODY:
Kupat Holim Clalit workers yesterday threatened to close down 1,300
community health fund clinics and put its 14 hospitals on a reduced Shabbat
schedule starting September 6 if they do not receive their August paychecks by
then.
The Histadrut health fund says it lacks the NIS 60 million needed to pay net
wages (without transferring income tax and other deductions, which more than
double the salary bill).
Kupat Holim spokesman David Tagar blamed the Treasury which, "with the
support of Health Minister Haim Ramon," yesterday deducted NIS 30m. of NIS 64m.
in employers' taxes the health fund was due to receive from the National
Insurance Institute.
The Treasury claims Kupat Holim owes it some NIS 400m. in income taxes. Last
week, the Treasury relented on its plans to take NIS 8.4m. in employers' taxes
from Kupat Holim, but earlier this month, it deducted some NIS 60m. from its NII
accounts. "This clearly proves that the government's decisions are motivated by
the desire to pressure us to agree to their dictates on who will run Kupat
Holim," Tagar insisted.
Prime Minister Rabin, who is regularly briefed by Ramon, Finance Minister
Avraham Shohat and Justice Minister David Liba'i, is expected to meet today with
Histadrut Secretary-General Haim Haberfeld over the crisis.
Meanwhile, the Histadrut's central committee, which was due to convene today
with Ramon in attendance, has been postponed because of the breakdown in
negotiations, the Histadrut spokesman said. The central committee will meet
Sunday morning at 9 to discuss the crisis.
Dr. Rami Ditzian, head of the medical division of Kupat Holim, warned
yesterday that the government's "sanctions" against the health fund will not
allow Kupat Holim to pay government hospitals for treatment they provide to
TM
TM
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3
The Jerusalem Post, August 28, 1992
Histadrut health fund members.
Ramon aide Yehezkel Shopps denied that the health minister has any
involvement in employers' tax deductions, insisting that this was purely the
Treasury's business. Reacting to the strike threat, Shopps said he hoped that
the Histadrut, which on Wednesday unilaterally abandoned negotiations with the
government over Kupat Holim, would "come to its senses and return to the
bargaining table. =
.NW:349
PD: Friday, August 28, 1992 DT: 920828 PB: Daily. Page: 18A SC: News
SC: .ME: Stand-alone photo ME: KW: Judaism. Hebron. KW: IL: Photo
IL: CP: Preparing for the New Year. Worshipers pray at the Tomb of the
Patriarchs in Hebron yesterday, when more than 10,000 Jews visited the Cave of
Machpela to mark the start of the month of Elul.
CP:
CR: Ephraim Kilshtok
CR:
LP:
TM
TM
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Services of Mead Data Central, Inc.
Recyclable
Withdrawal/Redaction Sheet
(George Bush Library)
Document No.
Subject/Title of Document
Date
Restriction
Class.
and Type
01. Memo
Michele Nix to Dan McGroarty, re: Themes/ Issues re: B'nai
09/03/92
P-5
B'rith Address. (3 pp.)
Collection:
Record Group:
Bush Presidential Records
Office:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Open on Expiration of PRA
Series:
Speech File, Backup
(Document Follows)
Subseries:
By
(NLGB) on 4/5/2005
WHORM Cat.:
File Location:
B'nai B'rith 9/8/92 [3]
Date Closed:
12/4/2004
OA/ID Number:
07579
FOIA/SYS Case #:
Re-review Case #:
2004-2265-S
P-2/P-5 Review Case #:
MR Case #:
Appeal Case #:
MR Disposition:
Appeal Disposition:
Disposition Date:
Disposition Date:
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P-1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA]
(b)(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P-2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
(b)(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an
P-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
(b)(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
(b)(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P-5 Release would disclose confidential advise between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
(b)(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
(b)(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of
(b)(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
(b)(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
DMV
September 3, 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR DAN MC GROARTY
FROM:
MICHELE NIX
SUBJECT:
THEMES/ISSUES RE B'NAI B'RITH ADDRESS
Mark Newman and Max Fisher suggest the themes/issues suggested
below.
This is the only time the President has addressed a largely
Jewish American audience since his election in '88. This is
seen as a very important opportunity for him -- and the
audience is expecting to hear words of wisdom, leadership,
vision, emotion and sincerity.
Newman suggests this is one of the oldest volunteer
organizations, if not the oldest. Ties in with the
President's Point of Light crusade, strong belief in
volunteerism, and recent call for volunteers re Hurricane
Andrew.
Anti-Semitism. Mention the President's disgust for recent
events in Germany. Mention same disgust for domestic hate
crimes. The President's last State of the Union address was
unprecedented because it was the only time a President has
used that forum to speak out against anti-semitism.
Specifically, he said:
"
If you read the papers and
watch TV, you know there's been a rise these days in a
certain kind of ugliness: racist comments, anti-Semitism,
an increased sense of division. Really, this is not us.
This is not who we are. And this is not acceptable."
Church-State issue. Pat Buchanan's affiliation with the
President is seen as a quite a negative. Fisher suggests
the President give a strong assertion of his belief in the
separation of church and state. The President in 1988
asserted this with the words "Good fences, good neighbors,
see
paraphrased from a Robert Frost poem, "The Mending Wall.
Also, the BB mission statement mentions "citizen
'88,
advocacy" -- an opportunity for the President to assert his
strong belief in this citizen advocacy -- "this is
fundamental to America." Fisher suggested the President
commend BB "for speaking out forcefully for what they
believe in." Commend them for speaking boldly, pushing the
debate, etc.
Follow by saying, "This is what I believe in. I believe
what you believe.' The idea that hate and bigotry are but a
weak enemy to American values. Language that asserts that
the President will always speak out against hate crimes,
against bigotry, because "this is what I believe. This is
who I am."
Soviet Jewry re accomplishments of the Bush Administration.
Fisher will be addressing this somewhat in his introduction
-- citing that George Bush has changed the world, opened
doors for the Jewish people. Also will suggest that if GB
had been President in 1930s, Hitler would have never enjoyed
success, playing off of metaphor with GB's unprecedented
gathering of coalition partners for Desert Storm.
In 1987, the President spoke to 250,000 Soviet Jews on
the mall, saying that the Soviet Jews should be allowed to
immigrate -- not just five or six. He said, "Let all those
who want to leave go." At the time, it was seen as "pie in
the sky" words, never to happen (much like the President's
call for the end of the Cold War). Since his Presidency,
500,000,000,000
Soviet Jews have immigrated to Israel; approximately
have immigrated to the U.S., with about another
45,000 expected by the end of this year.
In 1988 address to B'nai Brith, GB mentioned a banner
on the wall of the convention room: "I just noticed the
banner on the wall: 'Where do Soviet Jews apply for
Glasnost?' I fully endorse the question. We cannot stop
caring about the plight of others around the world.' " Good
opportunity here to refer back to this.
The Israel issue -- which Fisher and Newman don't want to
step on the toes of Dennis Ross and Richard Haas, but will
assist if we need further info.
Banners and other signs at the convention proclaimed "pro-
Israel, pro-Bush." The President could say, "At the
convention, I saw signs that bounced around the heads of the
crowd 'Pro-Israel. Pro-Bush.' I'm proud that that was my
convention. Pro-Israel. Pro-Bush. I like that."
A detailed pro-Israeli statement, calling Israel "our most
reliable and capable ally" in the Middle East, was included
in the Republican platform. Clinton's platform included
[
nothing about Israel, nada, zip, zippo. Included in my
research is a fact sheet that lists references at the
convention re the Jewish Community.
ANECDOTAL MATERIAL/QUOTES
The single most important characteristic for the President
to deliver, per Newman and Fisher, is emotion. Personalize,
personalize. Humanize, humanize. They told Dennis Ross, if its
a choice between losing some substance for the sake of emotion,
do it. The lucky break for us is that it is very easy to "make
the President cry." Newman and Fisher both contend, if the
President chokes up, he's won. Simply, because he has to deliver
sincerity. He has to show that he believes what he says -- and
feels it right down to his heart.
I'm also a big supporter of making the President choke up,
when possible and when appropriate. I've watched for the type of
language that tends to make him do so. Almost always, any
reference to a child or children in pain, in danger, at risk etc.
breaks the President's heart and he gives way to tears. His
voice breaks, his eyes tear. He opens his heart to the audience.
In addition to having the President say he believes in
Israel, he will not stand for anti-Semitism, etc., Newman asks
that we personalize, humanize what he says with what he's done.
Here's a few anecdotes to help that. Newman is getting me more
details on all of these.
In 1986, as Vice President, the President and Mrs. Bush
visited Jerusalem. One of the things he did was pray at the
Temple Mount. "I remember visiting the Old City with Barbara
"
Withdrawal/Redaction Sheet
(George Bush Library)
Document No.
Subject/Title of Document
Date
Restriction
Class.
and Type
02. Memo
Michele Nix to Dan McGroarty, re: Themes/ Issues re: B'nai
09/03/92
P-5
B'rith Address. (3 pp.)
Collection:
Record Group:
Bush Presidential Records
Office:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Speech File, Backup
Open on Expiration of PRA
Subseries:
(Document Follows)
WHORM Cat.:
By SN (NLGB) on 4/5/2005
File Location:
B'nai B'rith 9/8/92 [3]
Date Closed:
12/4/2004
OA/ID Number:
07579
FOIA/SYS Case #:
Re-review Case #:
2004-2265-S
P-2/P-5 Review Case #:
MR Case #:
Appeal Case #:
MR Disposition:
Appeal Disposition:
Disposition Date:
Disposition Date:
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P-1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRAJ
(b)(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P-2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
(b)(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an
P-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
(b)(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
(b)(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P-5 Release would disclose confidential advise between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
(b)(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
(b)(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of
(b)(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
(b)(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
September 3, 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR DAN MC GROARTY
FROM:
MICHELE NIX
SUBJECT:
THEMES/ISSUES RE B'NAI B'RITH ADDRESS
Mark Newman and Max Fisher suggest the themes/issues suggested
below.
This is the only time the President has addressed a largely
Jewish American audience since his election in '88. This is
seen as a very important opportunity for him -- and the
audience is expecting to hear words of wisdom, leadership,
vision, emotion and sincerity.
Newman suggests this is one of the oldest volunteer
organizations, if not the oldest. Ties in with the
President's Point of Light crusade, strong belief in
volunteerism, and recent call for volunteers re Hurricane
Andrew.
Anti-Semitism. Mention the President's disgust for recent
events in Germany. Mention same disgust for domestic hate
crimes. The President's last State of the Union address was
unprecedented because it was the only time a President has
used that forum to speak out against anti-semitism.
Specifically, he said:
"
If you read the papers and
watch TV, you know there's been a rise these days in a
certain kind of ugliness: racist comments, anti-Semitism,
an increased sense of division. Really, this is not us.
This is not who we are. And this is not acceptable."
Church-State issue. Pat Buchanan's affiliation with the
President is seen as a quite a negative. Fisher suggests
the President give a strong assertion of his belief in the
separation of church and state. The President in 1988
asserted this with the words "Good fences, good neighbors,"
paraphrased from a Robert Frost poem, "The Mending Wall.'
Also, the BB mission statement mentions "citizen
advocacy" -- an opportunity for the President to assert his
strong belief in this citizen advocacy -- "this is
fundamental to America." Fisher suggested the President
commend BB "for speaking out forcefully for what they
believe in. Commend them for speaking boldly, pushing the
debate, etc.
heizborg
ageinst
enemies
Follow by saying, "This is what I believe in. I believe
what you believe. The idea that hate and bigotry are but a
weak enemy to American values. Language that asserts that
the President will always speak out against hate crimes,
against bigotry, because "this is what I believe. This is
who I am. "
five
a
Soviet Jewry re accomplishments of the Bush Administration.
Fisher will be addressing this somewhat in his introduction
-- citing that George Bush has changed the world, opened
doors for the Jewish people. Also will suggest that if GB
had been President in 1930s, Hitler would have never enjoyed
Midrach
success, playing off of metaphor with GB's unprecedented
gathering of coalition partners for Desert Storm.
In 1987, the President spoke to 250,000 Soviet Jews on
Talmud
the mall, saying that the Soviet Jews should be allowed to
immigrate -- not just five or six. He said, "Let all those
who want to leave go." At the time, it was seen as "pie in
the sky" words, never to happen (much like the President's
call for the end of the Cold War). Since his Presidency,
350,000 Soviet Jews have immigrated to Israel; approximately
120,000 have immigrated to the U.S., with about another
Hing
45 000 expected by the end of this year.
In 1988 address to B'nai Brith, GB mentioned a banner
what
on the wall of the convention room: "I just noticed the
banner on the wall: 'Where do Soviet Jews apply for
Glasnost?' I fully endorse the question. We cannot stop
caring about the plight of others around the world. II Good
half
opportunity here to refer back to this.
The Israel issue -- which Fisher and Newman don't want to
hearthillis 3 themes
step on the toes of Dennis Ross and Richard Haas, but will
assist if we need further info.
Banners and other signs at the convention proclaimed "pro-
Israel, pro-Bush." The President could say, "At the
convention, I saw signs that bounced around the heads of the
crowd 'Pro-Israel. Pro-Bush.' I'm proud that that was my
convention. Pro-Israel. Pro-Bush. I like that. "
X
A detailed pro-Israeli statement, calling Israel "our most
reliable and capable ally" in the Middle East, was included
in the Republican platform. Clinton's platform included
nothing about Israel, nada, zip, zippo. Included in my
research is a fact sheet that lists references at the
convention re the Jewish Community.
over 400,000 left
ANECDOTAL MATERIAL/QUOTES
have the
Soutet Since
Union state to
The single most important characteristic for the President
you,
to deliver, per Newman and Fisher, is emotion. Personalize,
personalize. Humanize, humanize. They told Dennis Ross, if its
a choice between losing some substance for the sake of emotion,
do it. The lucky break for us is that it is very easy to "make
the President cry." Newman and Fisher both contend, if the
President chokes up, he's won. Simply, because he has to deliver
sincerity. He has to show that he believes what he says -- and
feels it right down to his heart.
I'm also a big supporter of making the President choke up,
when possible and when appropriate. I've watched for the type of
language that tends to make him do so. Almost always, any
reference to a child or children in pain, in danger, at risk etc.
breaks the President's heart and he gives way to tears. His
voice breaks, his eyes tear. He opens his heart to the audience.
In addition to having the President say he believes in
Israel, he will not stand for anti-Semitism, etc., Newman asks
that we personalize, humanize what he says with what he's done.
Here's a few anecdotes to help that. Newman is getting me more
details on all of these.
In 1986, as Vice President, the President and Mrs. Bush
visited Jerusalem. One of the things he did was pray at the
Temple Mount. "I remember visiting the Old City with Barbara
"
Draft 2
September 3, 1992
7:30 p.m.
[BNAI]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: B'NAI BRITH
WASHINGTON, D.C.
SEPTEMBER 8, 1992
XX:00 A.M.??
It is a great honor to be here with you today.
[Acknowledgements.]
We've witnessed a world of change. Across Europe, across
continents, from Panama City to Prague, millions of men and women
now celebrate a new birth of freedom -- a new world of hope.
With change comes new challenges. For America, the end of
the Cold War means the beginning of a new era
{Para. on
economic challenge.}
Yet our strength as a people is more than just the measure
of our GDP or per capita income. The state of our American union
reflects not simply the productivity of our economy but the
quality of our society. How well we care for one another, in the
wake of tragedies like Hurricane Andrew -- in the face of hate
and unreason and violence. This is what defines us. This is the
true measure of what America means, to ourselves -- to the world.
This willingness to reach out, to help those in need -- to
recognize across all the divides of color and culture and creed
our shared human spirit -- this is what B'Nai Brith is all about.
For XX years, the members of this organization have served as the
nation's conscience.
2
Perhaps more than anything else, the words B'nai Brith
conjure up the necessity -- the moral and political imperative -
- to resist anti-semitism wherever and whenever it appears.
I wish that I could stand before you today and say that
anti-semitism has been eliminated in America and around the
world. / I cannot. / But I can commit to you that I will work
very hard here and with foreign leaders to do all I can to end
this scourge. // In this country, we will aggressively employ
the Hate Crimes Act to bring to justice those who traffic in the
gutter. And we will continue to lend our voice and use our law
to make it clear that there is no place, much less reason, for
this kind of prejudice. //
The United States is founded on principles that have served
us well -- principles that have served as a model for countless
others around the world for more than two centuries. No
principle is more sacred than that of the separation of church
and state.
[[ REVISE: Yet at the same time we are very much one nation
under God. How we reconcile the two -- the need to protect
freedom, the need to recognize the creator -- is critical. I
believe there is no contradiction between religious liberty on
the one hand and either school prayer or school choice on the
other. We cannot and must not discriminate in favor of any
religion, but neither should we lean so far in the other
direction as to discriminate against religion. Surely we can
find a way to balance faith and freedom. ]]
3
As I said at the outset, we have entered a time of change
and challenge. Years ago I served in China, where it was wisdom
to say that times of great interest were a curse. Change has a
different aspect for a country like ours. the changes we've
witnessed -- the changes we've worked for -- are literally, the
American Dream come true. // Long after we are gone, historians
will speak of this period with wonder and awe.
((As I sometimes say, the changes we have been a part of are
nothing short of Biblical -- a judgement that holds up regardless
of which testament one favors.) ))
This is no exaggeration. Who, just a few years ago, would
have thought we would no longer live under the threat of nuclear
(holocaust) ? Who would have thought the scarring symnbol of an
era -- the Berlin Wall -- would be found only in museums and
chipped into paperweights? But then, who would have predicted
the Soviet Union would be found only in the pages of history?
And while we are mentioning all that has changed for the
better, who would have predicted that ancient enemies would be
talking peace -- that direct, bilateral talks would be taking
place between Israel and her neighbors?
I can tell you, we were frequently told we couldn't succeed
-- that we'd never be able to bring them together. But we did.
I want to dwell for a moment on this breakthrough, because I
know it matters deeply to everyone in this hall. Let me take you
back nearly a year ago to another hall, in Madrid. There,
gathered around the table were representatives of Lebanon,
4
Jordan, Syria, Egypt , Palestinians -- and Israel. For nearly
half a century they had not met outside the battlefield. But for
the first time they came together not to fight -- but to talk.
Then, as now, the goal is peace -- real peace. Not simply
the end of war -- but genuine reconciliation. A peace both broad
and deep, a peace codified by treaties, and given life by trade
and tourism, by open borders -- a peace softened by the simple
human contact of peoples who've known each other far too long as
enemies. A comprehensive peace, rooted in Security Council
Resolutions 242 and 338. A peace that at long last will allow
the people of the Middle East to turn their energies, their
resources, their lives to creation rather than destruction -- to
great works rather than great wars.
Today, as we speak, the parties that met first at Madrid are
mid-way through the sixth round of bilateral negotiations. There
has been progress. Delegations are exchanging not only
handshakes, but fir the first time written proposals. Public
posturing has decreased -- and meaningful private dialogue has
increased.
of course, major hurdles remain. It will take time and
effort and courage and trust. But there is clearly a way -- and
increasingly, a will.
The evidence is mounting: The many positive steps taken by
Israel's new government to improve day to day life for
Palestinians -- Egypt's invitation that made it possible for
Prime Minister Rabin to make his first trip outside Israel to an
5
Arab country -- Syria's relaxation of travel restrictions
affecting its Jewish citizens. [Further gestures by Israel,
matched by such Arab gestures as an end to their boycott, can
only help in bringing about an environment conducive for
negotiation and reconciliation.]
I am proud of the role we've played in breaking the long-
standing taboo against direct talks between Israel and her
neighbors. Israel sought direct talks for 43 years -- and it was
right to do SO. If you do not talk -- you know no hope of making
peace. Now, there is such a hope. I'm also proud of what we
have done to end Israel's diplomatic isolation internationally.
Thanks to our efforts, we succeeded -- after 17 years -- in
getting the UN General Assembly to repeal what should never have
been enacted in the first place. Zionism is not racism --- not
before / not now / not ever. //
And thanks to our efforts, China and India and Turkey and
many other nations -- countries representing 2 billion people --
have full diplomatic relations with Israel. Hundreds of
thousands on Jewish men, women and children who only a few years
ago lived in fear or neglect in the Soviet Union or Ethiopia now
live in Israel, free to live, work and worship as their heart
tells them they must.
That's important for Israel, not only psychologically -- but
also economically. Israel now has vast opportunities for trade
and commerce -- opportunities it is already turning to advantage.
Persuading parties to talk peace / ending Israel's
6
international isolation / assisting in the in-gathering of Jews
into Israel: These are the three great aims that have guided
Israel from its founding. We didn't just talk about helping
Israel in these areas -- we delivered. Anyone can talk -- we
developed strategies that produced. //
And we didn't stop there. We produced on Israel's security.
We stopped Saddam Hussein. //
Every step we took toward Iraq prior to August 2, 1990 may
not have been right. But we were not the reason Saddam Hussein
was on the verge of acquiring nuclear weapons. We were not the
reason Saddam Hussein had 5000 tanks -- or 5000 pieces of
artillery -- or the 4th largest army in the world.
And whatever differences I had with my critics -- and with
some would-be revisionists who want to rewrite history -- cannot
obscure this fact: After August 2, while my critics stood by and
second guessed -- I acted to take care of that threat. //
Ask yourself -- ask yourself where the Middle East would be
today -- where Israel's security would be today -- of we had
followed the counsel of my critics. Ask yourself where we sould
be if we had someone in the Oval Office who would have
equivovated -- who would have wavered and wanted to have it both
ways. Where would we be? I'll tell you: We'd be facing a
nuclear-armed Iraq, with a choke-hold on the world's oil supplies
-- and threatening Israel's very existence. Israel's very
survival would be at stake --- and we'd be talking about nuclear
Armageddon in the Middle East -- not new hopes for peace.
7
That nightmare vision was driven away -- banished by Desert
Storm. America -- and all the world -- are thankful. //
There is still work to be done. The Middle East -- indeed,
the world -- is still a dangerous place. Terrorists continue to
target the innocent. The proliferation of conventional arms as
well as weapons of mass destruction casts a cloud over the
region's future; Iraq's Saddam Hussein, however much weaker and
defeated, still brutalizes his own people and resists complying
with the will of the international community. The need for
Israel to remain strong is beyond question --- as is the need for
close strategic cooperation and partnership between our two
countries.
And one more thing. Just this week I am sending to the
Congress legislation requesting up to $10 billion in loan
guarantees to aid Israel's government in the absorption of these
newcomers. I know I can count on the support of every one in
this room to make sure that this proposal becomes law.
I would be less than honest if I did not acknowledge at this
point past differences surrounding this issue -- differences
between the United States and the previous government of Israel,
differences between my Administration and many of you here. Let
me address each in turn.
I am glad that Prime Minister Rabin and I were able to reach
an understanding on loan guarantees when we met in Kennebunkport
last month. What we have is a new Israeli government, one with
new priorities, committed to investing in Israel itself,
8
determined to avoid steps that could hamper progress toward
peace. Indeed one that puts its word and trust at the center of
our relationship. I share that commitment and as a result, we
will be able to promote peace and facilitate immigrant absorption
at one and the same time. Both are humanitarian undertakings;
both deserve our full support. It was important not to choose
between them, and I am glad that we are now in a position to
promote both objectives:
As for the future, I am confident that on most issues, on
most occasions, we and Israel will find ourselves in agreement.
I, for one, am committed to revitalizing the tradition of full
consultation between the United States and Israel on the entire
range of issues affecting stability in the Middle East. I know
the Prime Minister shares this commitment. There will be no
surprises.
Sometimes, however, I expect we will disagree. Sovereign,
democratic governments like Israel and the United States are
responsible to themselves and their own citizens.
But when disagreement between us happens, I pledge to you
that we will work hard to keep any divide to a minimum. Our
support for Israel and its security is not simply a policy. It
is a principle. As I said after Prime Minister Rabin and I
completed our meeting in Maine, this is a relationship based on a
shared commitment to democracy and common values, as well as a
shared commitment to Israel's security, including its qualitative
9
military edge. This is a special relationship, one built to
endure.
Similarly, I expect that there will be issues when those of
us in this room will find ourselves on opposing sides. This is
something I, of all people, understand. // In the past, some
remarks of mine were misinterpreted. I have explained what I
intended; I have gone on the record expressing my sorrow for any
pain this may have caused.
Today let me make clear: I support, I endorse, and I deeply
believe in the God-given right of every American to promote what
they believe. It is your right as an individual. It is your
duty as a citizen. //
But let me also say that it is important that we learn how
to disagree. We must take great care with words. I hardly need
to tell anyone in this room just what anti-semitism is. As my
friend Abe Foxman pointed out, to accuse those who may come to
different conclusions on one or another public issue of harboring
anti-semitism is to cheapen the term. That is dangerous. That
is deeply wrong. We must take care that this hateful human vice
-- this slander that has caused so much pain and suffering for
the Jewish people throughout the ages -- is not drained of its
meaning. Anti-semitism must never be an empty word. //
And when anti-semitism arises, we -- Jew and Gentile alike -
- must fight it together. For anti-semitism has no place in
America -- or anywhere else in the world.
10
You are members of a community that has a long and great
tradition of political participation. B'nai Brith stands for
opportunity, for tolerance, for opposing anti-semitism and the
ugly face of hate in all its forms. You stand too for stalwart
support for America's close friend and ally Israel.
Let me simply say that on all these issues -- I am proud to
stand with you. //
Thank you -- and may God bless the United States of America.
# # #
We must do everything in our power to end bigotry.
We must do everything in our power to end race hate.
We must do everything in our power to end anti-semitism.
Draft 2
September 3, 1992
7:30 p.m.
[BNAI]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: B'NAI BRITH
WASHINGTON, D.C.
SEPTEMBER 8, 1992
XX:00 A.M.?? 11:00 A.M.
It is a great honor to be here with you today.
[Acknowledgements.]
We've witnessed a world of change. Across Europe, across
continents, from Panama City to Prague, millions of men and women
now celebrate a new birth of freedom -- a new world of hope.
With change comes new challenges. For America, the end of
the Cold War means the beginning of a new era
{Para. on
economic challenge.}
Yet our strength as a people is more than just the measure
of our GDP or per capita income. The state of our American union
reflects not simply the productivity of our economy but the
quality of our society. How well we care for one another, in the
heaved BB
wake of tragedies like Hurricane Andrew -- in the face of hate
and unreason and violence. This is what defines us. This is the
H.Andrew in
true measure of what America means, to ourselves -- to the world.
H. ref
This willingness to reach out, to help those in need -- to
efforts.
recognize across all the divides of color and culture and creed
our shared human spirit -- this is what B'Nai Brith is all about.
150
For XX years, the members of this organization have served as the
nation's conscience.
This is the for their Celebration. at mention top end, this onhere.
2
Perhaps more than anything else, the words B'nai Brith
conjure up the necessity -- the moral and political imperative -
- to resist anti-semitism wherever and whenever it appears.
I wish that I could stand before you today and say that
He
anti-semitism has been eliminated in America and around the
worked
has
world. / I cannot. / But I can commit to you that I will work
very hard here and with foreign leaders to do all I can to end
fought &
this scourge. // In this country, we will aggressively employ
the Hate Crimes Act to bring to justice those who traffic in the
and
the hate groups white sheet, bow tieo
gutter And we will continue to lend our voice and use our law
Rosenbaum Hankel
to make it clear that there is no place, much less reason, for
long
this kind of prejudice. //
in Howard
NY X, in
The United States is founded on principles that have served
Beach,
us well -- principles that have served as a model for countless
in
others around the world for more than two centuries. No
principle is more sacred than that of the separation of church
Los x their Angeless
and state.
deaths showed in
[[ REVISE: Yet at the same time we are very much one nation
hatred
under God. How we reconcile the two -- the need to protect
JENOM St.
freedom, the need to recognize the creator -- is critical.
I
FORM.
believe there is no contradiction between religious liberty on
Never
the one hand and either school prayer or school choice on the
forget
other. We cannot and must not discriminate in favor of any
them.
religion, but neither should we lean so far in the other
direction as to discriminate against religion. Surely we can
find a way to balance faith and freedom. ]]
AMERICAN SURVEY
Jewish votes
population is Jewish, Jews usually account
bying will work. Having Pat Buchanan, no
for about 6% of votes cast. What is more, the
friend of Israel, campaigning for Mr Bush is
An awkward
Jewish vote is concentrated in 12 key states
TXD
not expected to help the president with Jew-
with 273 Electoral College votes-including
ish voters; nor is Mr Bush's anticipated ap-
balance
California and New York. Mr Bush needs to
proval for the sale of $5 billion-worth of F-15
win in a number of these states (Pennsylva-
Deutsch
fighter aircraft to Saudi Arabia. Moreover,
nia, New Jersey, Illinois, Ohio and Michi-
Bill Clinton was probably the most pro-Is-
WASHINGTON, DC
gan) if he is to be re-elected. To do that he
raeli candidate for the Democratic nomina-
THOSE who believe that
will probably need at least 20% of the Jewish
tion. The Jewish vote was crucial to his vic-
the best guide to a man's
vote. It may not be easy.
tory over Paul Tsongas in Florida, and vital
voting intentions is the size
Mr Bush's difficulties with Jewish voters
to his defeat of Jerry Brown in New York. In
of his bank balance have al-
were greatly exacerbated by his long con-
return for Jewish support, Mr Clinton over-
ways had difficulty explain-
frontation with the Shamir government in
saw the inclusion of a strong pro-Israeli
ing the political preferences of America's af-
Israel. No matter that a fair proportion of
statement in the Democratic platform. Mr
fluent Jewish population. America's Jews,
American Jews felt uneasy with Mr Sha-
Bush must be praying for an outbreak of
as the adage goes, live like Episcopalians but
mir's policies in the occupied territories; no
sweetness and light in the Middle East; and
vote like Puerto Ricans.
matter that most of the senior State Depart-
not just for lofty reasons of strategy.
During the 1980s it seemed this might be
ment aides helping James Baker frame pol-
changing. Although, over the past ten presi-
icy towards Israel were Jewish. Many Amer-
dential elections, an average of just 28% of
ican Jews thought Mr Bush unsympathetic
Hurricane Andrew
Jews voted Republican, Ronald Reagan got
to Israel or even anti-Semitic. Last Septem-
39% of the Jewish vote in 1980. The trend re-
ber, when Mr Bush referred to those lobby-
Windy cities
versed itself, however, for George Bush in
ing for approval of loan guarantees to Israel
1988: he attracted just 27% of the Jewish vote.
as "powerful political forces", Jewish fears
KENDALL AND MIAMI
If, as most pundits predict, Mr Bush fares
were heightened. By making such a state-
much worse this time, the consequences for
ment, according to one Democratic politi-
Nor necessarily conservative
T
HE trail of devastation was unprece-
his re-election campaign could be serious.
cal strategist, Mr Bush "knowingly and wil-
dented for a natural disaster in the
Although only about 3% of the American
fully threw a lighted match on the kerosene
of nascent anti-Semitism in America."
United States. When Hurricane Andrew
Not all Jews were as scathing in their
struck, moving from the Bahamas to Mi-
criticism. But Mr Bush faces a paradox with
ami's southern suburbs and on towards
The last deli
the Jewish vote. Those American Jews most
Louisiana, it caused damage estimated at
receptive to the idea of compromise with
between $15 billion and $20 billion, or
the Palestinians tend to be politically liberal
about triple the loss inflicted on the Atlantic
su
NEW YORK
and therefore loyal Democrats. Jews who
coast by Hurricane Hugo in 1989. About
wt.
N cluded, Tel Aviv or Jerusalem in-
Manhattan Jews have long been the
are socially conservative, and therefore at-
50,000 people have been left homeless, and
we
is home to more Jews than
most left-wing in New York, the main-
tracted to Republican positions on domes-
perhaps 20 killed. Some 600,000 more,
sn
New York. One in four American Jews
stays of the city's philanthropic, liberal,
tic issues, are also the most vehemently pro-
heeding warnings, escaped to the north.
SU
lives there, and much that is distinctive
academic and Democratic traditions.
Israel. Mr Bush will have a hard time
The towns of Homestead and Florida
WI
about the city-the sense of humour, the
Their increasing numbers are likely to
winning the votes of either faction.
City, which lie in a mostly agricultural area
Str
bagels-is also distinctively Jewish. But
enhance that. But the falling Jewish
His best hope lies in a flowering of the
about 40 miles south of Miami, now exist
pa
the Jewish population of New York is
population of the suburbs is likely to has-
Middle East peace talks currently being held
only as names. Entire sections, including
now falling, and the results will soon be
ten political change there, and thus in
in Washington. The confrontational tone of
the downtown shopping districts, were flat-
16
felt in local and national politics.
the city as a whole, as new immigrants,
American-Israeli relations changed almost
tened as if they had been hit by bombs. The
Gu
According to a head count for the
particularly Hispanics and Asians, be-
immediately with the election of a Labour
American Jewish Year Book, the Jewish
come more powerful.
party government in Israel. Mr Bush was
population of greater New York (the
That is a New York pattern. The peo-
able to demonstrate that his hostility was to
city's five boroughs plus the suburban
ple who run the city have always been
the Shamir government, not to Israel as a
counties of Westchester, Nassau and Suf-
the children and grandchildren of ear-
nation. On August 10th he announced that
folk) has fallen by 13% over the past ten
lier waves of immigrants, whether they
the loan guarantees would be extended after
years, to 1.4m. Much of that is accounted
were Irish, Italians or Jews from abroad
all, although the details must still be
for by the migration of elderly Jews from
or blacks from the south. But the local
thrashed out with Congress.
andre
the suburbs of New York to the con-
Democratic Party, now run by an in-
The goal now for Republicans is to capi-
dominiums of Florida. Rare is the New
creasingly uneasy coalition of blacks,
talise on this new mood and mend fences
THIS IS N
York Jewish family without a "granny in
Jews and Puerto Ricans, may not have
with Jewish voters. Mr Bush met the editors
Miami".
the same lock on the current generation
of Jewish newspapers on August 11th Ban-
But it is not just the search for a sunny
ners proclaiming "pro-Israel, pro-Bush"
TO GET BA
of immigrants as it did on earlier ones.
retirement home that is causing Jewish
Many of the Asian and Hispanic
were in evidence at the Republican conven-
congregations to shrink and synagogues
newcomers are skilled, middle-class and
tion. A detailed pro-Israeli statement, call-
to merge. Younger Jews, too, have left
not natural Democrats. Furthermore,
ing Israel "our most reliable and capable
Queens and other parts of Long Island,
suburban Jews are increasingly Ortho-
ally" in the Middle East, was included in the
Jerg
where the recession has hit jobs hard.
dox or Hasidic and politically conserva-
Republican platform. Dan Quayle deliv-
They have gone to lower-tax areas like
tive. Their relations with New York's
ered a gushing speech to the fervently pro-
Connecticut and New Jersey, or to Man-
blacks and poor Hispanics, two key parts
Israel American-Israel Public Affairs Com-
hattan, where the number of Jews has ac-
of the Democratic coalition, are
mittee, although he was repeatedly
tually increased by 15% in the past de-
deteroriating. Suburban New York may
interrupted by the heckling of an activist
cade. One in five Manhattan residents is
become fertile Republican territory
rabbi unhappy with Mr Bush's "bullying"
now Jewish.
sooner than many expect.
of Israel.
But there is no guarantee that all this lob-
New Orleans objects
22
THE ECONOMIST AUGUST 29TH 1992
THE ECONOMIST AUGUST 29TH 1992
German Unrest Expected to Bring
Tightening of Law on Immigration
By STEPHEN KINZER
Special to The New York Times
BONN, Sept. 1 - Political shock
position party. "They were promised
waves from Rostock, where mobs of
that after unification things were going
racist demonstrators besieged and
to go a certain way. But these promises
burned a hostel housing foreign asy-
haven't been kept, and that has made
lum-seekers last week, have jolted Ger-
people very angry."
man politicians into actions that may
Anticipating Parliament's return on
transform the country's political land-
Monday from its summer recess, legis-
scape.
lative leaders have begun discussing a
Politicians of all parties now predict,
series of responses to the Rostock vio-
for the first time, that Germany will
lence, ranging from new investment in
soon tighten its immigration law,
eastern Germany to better training for
which is the most permissive in Eu-
police and social workers there. But
rope.
most of their attention is fixed on the
The outburst in Rostock has also
hotly debated immigration question.
been seen by some politicians as an-
A Porous Border
other in a list of unforeseen pitfalls of
German unification, which is nearing
Because Germany's immigration
its second anniversary. They say that
law is part of its 1949 Constitution, any
conditions in eastern cities like Ros-
change requires a two-thirds majority
tock contributed to the violence and
in Parliament and therefore must be
that by some standards those condi-
approved by the Social Democrats,
tions are worse now than in the days of
who-had resisted mounting pressure to
Communist rule.
alter their longstanding opposition to
"In that section of Rostock there are
tighter immigration laws.
25,000 people living in close quarters,
But events in Rostock have evidently
half of them unemployed and many of
changed their minds. Senior Social
them without any prospects," said
Democrats have decided to call a spe-
Karlheinz Blessing, general manager
of the Social Democrats, the main op-
Continued on Page A8, Column 1
A8
THE NEW YORK TIMES INTERNATIONAL WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 1992
German Unrest Is Expected
To Bring Immigration Curb
Continued From Page Al
tling gains by using slogans like "The
cial party congress, to be held this fall,
Boat Is Full" and 'Germany for the
Germans." Established politicians
at which members will be asked to
fear that in 1994 these parties could win
change the party's immigration policy.
seats in Parliament.
Party leaders who support the change
Besides threatening German politi-
say the Social Democrats have no hope
cal stability, xenophobic attacks like
of winning the 1994 federal election
those in Rostock undermine the coun-
unless they respond to public pressure
try's image as a peaceful place with a
to curb immigration.
near-ideal investment climate.
Under existing German law, all for-
"When it comes to right-wing ex-
eigners who claim to be politically per-
tremists, the world is watching Germa-
secuted at home may ask for asylum
ny closely because of its past,' Foreign
Minister Klaus Kinkel told the newspa-
here. While their claims are being in-
per Berliner Zeitung. "Hostility and
vestigated, which can take years, the
hatred of foreigners is the last thing we
Government pays to house, feed, clothe
can afford."
and otherwise care for them.
Government officials who have in-
The allure of the asylum process is
vestigated the weeklong disturbance in
made greater by the relative ease of
Rostock, which ended only when 200
entering Germany along the Oder and
asylum-seekers were moved out of the
Neisse rivers, its eastern border.
area, said many of the rioters were
'The Oder-Neisse doesn't even
bored local youths frustrated by their
reach your knees in the summer," said
lack of opportunity. Minister of Justice
Defense Minister Volker Rühe, a Chris-
Sabine Leutheusser-Schnarrenbergen
tian Democrat and an outspoken advo-
described them as people who "have no
cate of tighter immigration laws.
apartment, no job, and possibly no edu-
'You're in Germany with a triple
cation to prepare them for life."
jump, and you don't even get your
But the frustration of these young
socks wet. Then all you need is one
people, officials concluded, was fanned
by a core of neo-Nazis from other parts
of Germany.
Lawmakers
Poor Living Conditions Noted
Associated Press
Alwin Zien, Interior Minister of the
Politicians predict that Germany will tighten its
old German Imperial flag at rally in Eberswalde,
discuss responses
eastern state of Brandenburg, said or-
immigration law following a wave of racist demon-
north of Berlin. A demonstrator arrested in Ros-
ganizers of the riots communicated by
strations. Right-wing protesters, above, carried the
tock, below, stared at a police officer's boot.
to the outbreaks
citizens' band radio and monitored po-
lice frequencies.
in Rostock.
"They weren't just doing what came
to them spontaneously,' Mr. Zien said
in a televised interview. "We have to
adjust to that."
word, asylum, and you're in the Ger-
Although many politicians pointed to
man system."
poor living conditions in Rostock and
As a result, far more asylum-seekers
other eastern cities as the underlying
come to Germany than to any other
cause of racist violence, some insisted
country in Europe. A decade ago the
that the police had to adopt tougher
number was fewer than 50,000 a year,
tactics.
but this year more than 400,000 are
"If the state does not exercise its
expected. Polls suggest that most Ger-
monopoly on the use of force with all
mans favor severe tightening of the
determination, if it does not take dras-
system that permits them such easy
tic action, we are threatened with a
entry.
conflagration of violence," Otto
With unemployment so high in east-
Lambsdorff, leader of the centrist Free
ern Germany, and with social services
Democratic Party, asserted at a news
SO badly deteriorated and living space
conference.
so hard to find, citizens have turned
The police were woefully unprepared
their anger on the foreigners among
for the violence in Rostock, and even
them, especially those who are sup-
after it began they seemed to have no
ported by the state.
plan for suppressing it. Senior local and
Far-right parties have made star-
state officials rejected calls for their
resignations, arguing that the Bonn
Government had not given them the
0 Miles 200
tools they needed to fight lawlessness.
North Sen
Rostock Police Understaffed
Rostock
POL.
The Rostock police force is supposed
Berlin)
to have 5,300 officers, but 600 are away
Hoyeswerda®
at training courses in western Germa-
BEL
ny and 700 slots have gone unfilled for
Bonn
budgetary reasons. Of those who re-
CZECH.
main, 70 percent are veterans of the old
Avoid
coming party congress he would urge
East German police, despised by many
European Community rules permit
plauding, as hundreds of racists hurled
GERMANY
citizens.
support for a new law to deny asylum
Herrilsheim
member governments to adopt such
firebombs and other missiles at places
to citizens of countries where there is
AUS.
Chancellor Helmut Kohl's senior ad-
restrictive laws, and many Germans
where foreigners live.
no political persecution, and also to
want theirs to do so.
'Hoyeswerda and Rostock are not
SWITZ
viser on issues relating to foreigners,
Cornelia Schmalz-Jacobsen, said in an
those who arrive without identity pa-
FRANCE
Why the People Applauded
the revolt of a new rightist youth move-
pers. Mr. Engholm also advocated
interview today that resolving the cur-
ment," said Thomas Krüger, who is in
ITALY.
adoption of a quota system to permit
Nearly a year ago, neo-Nazis and
rent crisis would require a "package of
charge of youth programs in Berlin
the immigration of limited numbers of
Carpentras
their supporters launched a wave of
measures" from Parliament, rather
"They are cases of resistance by peo
economic refugees.
than simply an amended asylum law.
violent attacks that drove asylum-
ple who have become weak as a result
She said it was a mistake to have
seeker out of their apartments in the
of unification, and who are no longer
Some leaders of Chancellor Kohl's
The New York Times
placed such a concentration of foreign-
eastern town of Hoyeswerda. Any
willing to accept their weakness."
Christian Democratic Union advocate
Some German politicians see the
hopes that the Hoyeswerda incident
ers in the midst of such a deprived and
"The applause of Rostock people is
going further. They want a law banning
unhappy neighborhood in Rostock.
might have been an aberration were
no accident," he added. "It is a reac
racist violence in Rostock as a
all immigration except in cases where
erased by last week's disturbances in
The Social Democratic leader, Björn
tion against the failure to set serious
byproduct of reunification.
individuals can prove they have been
Engholm, said last weekend that at the
Rostock. In both places, thousands of
political priorities, and it should be
singled out by repressive governments.
citizens stood by, some of them ap-
taken very seriously."
Study Finds Antisemitism
Still on Decline in U.S. 1/8/92
Minorities More Likely to Disapprove of Jews
By Lynne Duke
But David Singer, the American
Washington Post Staff Writer
Jewish Committee's director of re-
search, said the report provides a
While anti-Jewish incidents and
"balanced" look at the complexities
Jewish concern about ethnic bias
of American feelings on Jews.
have increased in recent years, a
"The level of Jewish anxiety
report released yesterday on Amer-
about antisemitism is always high,"
ican perceptions of Jews concludes
Singer said. "It's clear that over the
that antisemitic attitudes continue
last year or two that anxiety level
to decline.
has increased.
But what the
The report, conducted for the
New York-based American Jewish
committee was trying to get at was
the more basic attitudinal orienta-
Committee, is based on survey re-
search dating to 1958, including a
tion of Americans," which he char-
1990 survey in which whites,
acterized as "generally positive but
blacks, Asian Americans, Hispanic
[with] some negative elements as
Americans, Jews and southern
well."
whites ranked Jews on such mea-
Tom Smith, director of the yearly
sures as wealth, work ethic, procliv-
General Social Survey at the Na-
ity for violence, intelligence, depen-
tional Opinion Research Center in
dency and patriotism. Jews received
Chicago, wrote the report. The
the most favorable marks on all ex-
most recent data on which he bases
cept patriotism. But those who
his conclusions are the "ethnic im-
ranked Jews the highest also were
ages" questions asked of the six
ASSOCIATED PRESS
more likely to feel Jews have too
groups as part of the 1990 social
ney Scruggs, standing, are depicted in court artist's sketch.
much influence.
survey of 1,372 people nationwide.
Minority groups were more likely
Despite the increase in antisemi-
described the sect
quired to vote in elections, and they
than whites to have negative im-
tic incidents, Smith said his re-
"Hebrew and Jew-
voted as a bloc.
pressions of Jews. But while the
search shows no reversal in the
1 a dash of Black
Just before Yahweh and his follow-
report said blacks' views on Jews
long-term decline of negative atti-
t of the Masons."
ers were indicted in November
are a potential source of an invig-
tudes toward Jews. For instance, in
and speeches, Yah-
1990, Miami Mayor Xavier Suarez
orated antisemitism, the 1990 sur-
a 1958 Gallup survey nearly 28 per-
ks are the original
declared Oct. 7, 1990, as "Yahweh
vey research suggests that blacks
cent of respondents said they would
used whites of be-
ben Yahweh Day." The Miami Her-
are no more likely than other mi-
not vote for a Jew for president,
mands that his fol-
ald headlined a 1988 report, "Yah-
nority groups to say Jews have too
while in 1987 only 5 percent said
sh their "slave
weh sect gains new respect, friends."
much influence or to reject integra-
they would not. In 1968, 59 percent
the name "Israel."
The trial is expected to last as
tion between blacks and Jews.
of Gallup survey respondents said
issued tracts enti-
long as five months. The govern-
Recent incidents have created a
they approved of intermarraige be-
ricans are Kidnap-
ment's primary witnesses are for-
perception of widespread black and
tween Jews and non-Jews; in 1983,
rists" and "Can I
mer sect members, and central to
generalized antisemitism: riots be-
77 percent approved.
Id from Whitey's
its case is Robert Rozier, a former
tween blacks and Jews in the Crown
The report does not measure an-
Yahweh member convicted of kill-
Heights section of Brooklyn last
tisemitic behavior or incidents, but
ing four people. He was sentenced
summer; the controversy surround-
the sect pleaded
Smith said his findings suggest a
er jury not to focus
to 22 years in prison and is eligible
ing black City College of New York
for parole as early as 1994.
professor Leonard Jeffries Jr.; and
"small minority" of people with
e love espoused by
its leader. The al-
Attorneys for the Yahwehs today
the presidential candidacy of former
strong anti-Jewish attitudes.
neo-Nazi and Ku Klux Klansman
Singer, Smith and Foxman
he sect collide with
described Rozier as a mass murder-
David Duke.
agreed that the belief among 20
and are an embar-
er who would have told prosecutors
Such incidents led Abraham H.
percent of the 1990 social survey
politicians.
any story to avoid the electric chair.
Foxman, national director of the
respondents that Jews have too
Yahweh is credited
Another key witness is Anthony
Anti-Defamation League of B'nai
much influence confirmed a tradi-
ying and restoring
Solomon, Yahweh ben Yahweh's
B'rith, to dispute the report's con-
tional stereotype. Among those who
lings in blighted
nephew and a convicted drug dealer
clusion.
rated Jews as richer, more intelli-
Throughout the
and former sect member.
"We are seeing increased anti-
gent, harder working and less de-
killings are said to
Prosecutors promised jurors that
semitism on college campuses,"
pendent, about 30 percent also said
he group grew in
they would provide witnesses who
Foxman said. "We're seeing a
Jews have too much influence.
eem. Although the
were at the scene of the alleged
greater tolerance for antisemitic
Such a view, Smith wrote in the
of thousands of
murders or heard followers de-
expressions.
If the attitudes are
report, "feeds a traditional stereo-
cities nationwide,
scribe the lurid killings hours after
at a historic low, then what I'm tell-
type of Jews as powerful manipu-
they believe that
they happened.
ing you must be happening on the
lators who, through a combination
exaggerated.
"This is not a movie, this is not
moon." Foxman also listed as anti-
of wealth, cunning and both shrewd
ers and real estate
TV, this is real life," Scruggs said.
semitism some of the statements of
and unethical practices, control key
did the Yahwehs'
He promised jurors that they would
Republican presidential candidate
sectors of the economy and as a re-
lembers were re-
be shocked.
Patrick J. Buchanan.
sult wield crucial political power."
-B 'NAI BRITH - EXEC. VP TEL 202-296-0638
Sep 03,92 16:03 No.004 P.01
B 1 NAI B , RITH
Tel: 202-857-6545
Fax: 202-296-1092
FAX COVER SHEET
DATE:
September 3,1992
NUMBER OF PAGES 2
(INCLUDING COVER)
TO:
Michelle Nix
FROM:
Kathryn Dane
SUBJECT:
Recent press release
INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
1640 RHODE ISLAND AVENUE, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20036-3278
202-857-6600 FAX 202-857-1099
B 'NAI BRITH - EXEC. VP TEL: 202-296-0638
Sep 03,92 16:03 No. 004 P.02
B'NAI B'RITH
FROM THE WORLD'S LARGEST JEWISH ORGANIZATION
1640 RHODE ISLAND AVE., NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20036
N E W S
PRESS OFFICE: 7TH FLOOR
(202) 857-6536
FAX (202) 296-1092
Date: August 25, 1992
No. 92-81a
Release: Immediate
Contact: Buzzy Gordon
Si Cohen
B'NAI B'RITH AIDS HURRICANE ANDREW VICTIMS
WASHINGTON, DC -- In the immediate aftermath of the worst hurricane
to hit the state of Florida in decades, B'nai B'rith is already at
work to help provide immediate emergency supplies, it was announced
by B'nai B'rith International President Kent Schiner. "When nature
turns upon us, it makes us realize how vulnerable we all are -- and
how essential it is that we all pull together. That is exactly
what we are doing, in a traditional B'nai B'rith response," said
Mr. Schiner, recalling B'nai B'rith Commission on Community
Volunteer Services (CVS) relief drives in the wake of Hurricane
Hugo and the San Francisco earthquake.
Coordinating B'nai B'rith efforts in Florida are CVS
Commissioner Eric Smitt, of Indialantic, and members of Smitt's
Space Coast Lodge, who are preparing to drive supplies of bottled
water, canned goods and blankets down the Florida coast to the
stricken areas. Smitt is in radio contact with B'nai B'rith
leaders in the Miami area to meet new needs as they are identified.
At the same time, international fundraising efforts to support
relief work are being directed by CVS Chairman Dr. Warren Gray and
CVS Disaster Relief Chairman David Iszauk, who announced an initial
contributions. Donations may be sent to the B'nai B'rith Disaster
Relief Fund, 1640 Rhode Island Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20036.
###
202-296-1092 BBI WASH TEL: 202-296-1092
Sep 3,92 14:03 No.031 P.01
B ) NAI B , 'RITH
Tel: 202-857-6545
Fax: 202-296-1092
FAX COVER SHEET
DATE:
September 3, 1992
NUMBER OF PAGES
2
(INCLUDING COVER)
TO:
Michelle Nix
FROM:
Kathryn Dane
SUBJECT: B'nai B'rith fact sheet attached
Hope this fact sheet helps.
INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
1640 RHODE ISLAND AVENUE, NW, WASHINGTON. DC 20036-3278
202-857-6600 FAX 202-857-1099
202-296-1092 BBI WASH TEL: 202-296-1092
Sep 3,92 14:03 No. 031 P.02
About the group
B'NAI B'RITH
Dedicated To Jewish security, Jewish Continuity, Jewish Unity
Founded in the United States in 1843, B'nai B'rith is the world's
largest Jewish organization, with more than 500,000 members in 50
]
countries. For 149 years, this international service organization
has worked to defend human rights, fight discrimination, sponsor
interfaith dialogue, promote democracy, support scholarship, endow
hospitals, provide senior citizens with quality housing, offer
leadership training to teenagers, encourage volunteerism and
preserve Jewish culture. Through education, philanthropy and
personal involvement, B'nai B'rith reaches out to those in need and
strives for the betterment of society.
The membership components of B'nai B'rith comprise: B'nai B'rith
(adult men and women), B'nai B'rith Hillel (college students) and
B'nai B'rith Youth Organization: AZA (high school boys), BBG (high
school girls), and Teen Connection (junior high boys and girls).
An all-women's organization, B'nai B'rith Women is an affiliate.
Members of B'nai B'rith come from all religious denominations of
Judaism and identify with all political parties.
B'nai B'rith agencies include: The Anti-Defamation League of B'nai
B'rith (founded in 1913 to combat anti-Semitism) ; Community
Volunteer Services; Public Affairs and the International Council
of B'nai B'rith (official NGO status at the UN) ; B'nai B'rith
Hillel Foundations (on college campuses) ; B'nai B'rith Foundation
(fundraising and resource management) B'nai B'rith Youth
Organization (weckly activities and two summer camps) ; Continuing
Jewish Education (informal institutes of learning; lecture bureau,
book club and publishing) ; Senior Citizens Housing (non-sectarian) i
B'nai B'rith Israel Commission (strengthens*ties between Diaspora
Jewry and the Jewish state) ; and the B'nai B'rith Klutznick Museum
(permanent Judaiça collection and temporary exhibits of Jewish
interest). B'nai B'rith also sponsors tour programs, provides
membership insurance, and publishes the B'nai B'rith International
Jewish Monthly.
202-296-1092 BBI WASH TEL: 202-296-1092
Sep 3,92 14:03 No 031 P.03
B'nal B'rith: Working To Achieve
Jewish Security.
Jewish Continuity, Jewish Unity
Founded in 1843, B'nai B'rith is the world's
largest Jewish organization. One-half million
men and women in 46 countries are mem-
bers of B'nai B'rith. The organization defends
human rights and fights discrimination
throughout the world. It sponsors interfaith
dialogues, promotes democracy and world
peace and is committed to Jewish unity
B'nai B'rith has helped instill hundreds of
thousands of young adults with moral and
ethical values and a sense of Jewish identity
through the Hillel Foundations on over 400
college campuses. B'nai B'rith provides
senior citizens with quality housing and its
youth organizations offer leadership training
to teenagers. B'nal B'rith works to promote
Jewish education and to preserve Jewish cul-
ture: through community programs its
membership reaches out to those in need
and works for the betterment of society.
Re press conference
September 2, 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR BOB TEETER
FROM:
MIMI DAWSON
SUBJECT:
Information:
Media plan for announcement of
Bush-Quayle '92 National Jewish
Campaign Committee
The announcement of the Bush-Quayle '92 National Jewish
Campaign Committee will immediately follow the President's
official speech to B'nai B'rith on Tuesday, September 8, 1992, at
11 a.m. at the Sheraton Washington. The precedent for this
strategy is the highly successful announcement of the Evangelical
coalition in Dallas following the President's official National
Affairs Briefing address.
Format
After the President's B'nai B'rith address, Jewish media
will be invited to attend a press conference in a nearby
room. Max Fisher and/or Rudy Boschwitz will likely conduct
the press conference.
Key Jewish supporters of Bush-Quayle will be invited to
ensure a sizeable friendly audience.
A separate schedule proposal will be submitted requesting
the President meet with leaders of the Jewish Campaign
Committee, then make the announcement himself at the press
conference.
Communications output
Coalitions press will broadcast FAX a media advisory to
Jewish press on Friday morning, Sept. 4, alerting them to
the announcement.
Coalitions press will broadcast FAX a press release on the
announcement on Tuesday morning, Sept. 8. Names of JCC
leaders will be attached. Copies of the release will be
distributed on-site.
Campaign costs
room rental at Sheraton
podium
stage
mult box, microphone, sound mix
photographer
banner ("Bush-Quayle '92 Jewish Campaign Committee" banner
will be purchased through the Campaign vendor, Signs of
Imagination. This sign will be reused by state operations.)
B'nai B'rith plan
o
Because the President's B'nai B'rith address is official, we
will let B'nai B'rith public affairs handle media advisories
and press releases for that appearance.
Campaign targeting will be to general media in the 14 Jewish
ADI's. We will work closely with Mike Caputo and Mark Berry
on this.
Coalitions press will alert Christian outlets, including:
CBN
American Christian Trust (3520 Van Ness)
WAVA, WABS, WFAX
Christian American tabloid (John Wheeler)
Note:
This strategy should help keep Clinton off Jewish front
pages through the critical High Holy Day period.
Clinton won't be at B'nai B'rith. Message: Clinton
has plenty time for stock car racing, but no time for
]
Jews.
B'NAI B'RITH INTERNATIONAL
KENT E. SCHINER. PRESIDENT
February 11, 1992
President George W. Bush
The White House
Washington, DC 20500
Dear Mr. President:
B'nai B'rith cordially invites you to address our
International Convention which will convene in Washington at the
Sheraton Washington Hotel from Sunday, September 6 to noon on
Thursday, September 10. At this convention some two thousand B'nai
B'rith leaders from nearly every state in the Union, and from more
than twenty-five countries will be in attendance.
It has become a tradition in American political life that the
two Presidential candidates take the opportunity of the unique
platform of the B'nai B'rith Convention to address those subjects
of particular interest to the Jewish American voter. Their
speeches enjoy a wide circulation, and serve as the basis for the
candidate's message to the Jewish community. We trust that you
fondly recall your own visit to the B'nai B'rith Convention in
1988. All of us in the B'nai B'rith family have warm recollections
of your speech, and throughout the past four years, your words have
]
often been quoted in Jewish circles.
We know that you are now building your campaign staff, and at
this early date we want to record our desire to have you return to
the B'nai B'rith Convention in 1992.
We will be glad to work closely with your staff in finding the
time on the Convention schedule that is most congenial to your own
campaign needs.
;
We know that your message will have a significant impact upon
us, and we very much look forward to having you with us.
Sincerely,
Kent E. Schiner
CC: Dr. Sidney M. Clearfield
Dr. Michael Neiditch
Stephen M. Rudman
1640 RHODE ISLAND AVE., NW, WASHINCTON, DC 20036-3278 202-857-6553 FAX 202-296-0638
to
318016
B'NAI B'RITH INTERNATIONAL
KENT E. SCHINER. PRESIDENT
open 6/6/15- 6/12 6/18
March 25, 1992
President George Bush
The White House
Washington, DC 20500
Dear Mr. President:
I have the honor to invite you to be the principal speaker at the reinstallation
and rededication of President George Washington's letter to the Hebrew
congregation in Newport, Rhode Island, written in August of 1790, in which he
expressed the hope that "the children of the Stock of Abraham who dwell in
this land. shall sit in safety under his own vine and figtree, and there shall be
none to make him afraid."
There is no presidential letter in the long history of our country which has so
deep a hold on the hearts and minds of the Jews of the United States of
America. B'nai B'rith has been the permanent custodian of this letter since
1954, and its enduring importance has caused the B'nai B'rith to undertake a
significant reinstallation of it so that the tens of thousands of individuals who
pass each year through the B'nai B'rith Klutznick Museum can more fully
appreciate its historic message, and the context in which it was written.
It is my hope to formally reinstall the Washington letter in mid June. The
most suitable dates on the B'nai B'rith calendar are June 9-12 and June 15-18
I hope that you can find a convenient date among these, but if not, I am sure
we can find another suitable date. Coordinating this event at B'nai B'rith is
Dr. Michael Neiditch, Director of Programs, whom you know from his work for
you when you were Vice President. If you are able to accept this invitation, I
will be glad to work with your staff to coordinate the most suitable date and
time.
Throughout your entire public career you have been a sturdy champion of
tolerance, and a steadfast opponent of anti-Semitism. Thus, it is singularly
appropriate that B'nai B'rith has undertaken this work during your presidency.
1640 RHODE ISLAND AVE., NW. WASHINGTON, DC 20036-3278 202-857-6553 FAX 202-296-0638
President Bush
Page 2
I enclose a facsimile copy of President Washington's letter. I trust that you
will be able to join with us and reaffirm his pledge that "happily the
Government of the United States gives to bigotry no sanction, to persecution
no assistance M
With high regard and every good wish.
Sincerely,
Kent E. Schiner
President
Enclosure
B' NAI B 'RITH
200
100 proper
of ansenn
July 15, 1992
Mr. William Kristol
Office of the Vice-President
Old Executive Office Building
Washington, D.C.
Dear Bill:
Our international convention will take place this year from
September 6-10 at the Sheraton Washington.
We've sent a letter of invitation to President Bush to address the
delegates much as he did in 1988. As you know, all the major
presidential candidates have addressed our conventions since the
early sixties.
I've been in touch with both the campaign and with Cece Kremer to
see if we can possibly tie down an acceptance. I'd appreciate any
help you could offer in that regard.
For your information, I'm enclosing a copy of the invitation to the
President.
Warmest, personal regards.
Cordially,
Dan
Daniel S. Mariaschin
Director
International and Governmental Affairs
CC: Cece Kremer
INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
1640 RHODE ISLAND AVENUE, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20036-3278
202-857-6600 FAX 202-857-1099
1988 Schedule
Attachment F
Page 7
SPEECH AT B'NAI B'RITH INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION
September 7
Baltimore Convention Center
5:00 p.m.
FROM: A. Mark Neuman
I.
PURPOSE
To provide the Vice President with exposure to a nationwide Jewish
audience.
II. BACKGROUND
President Reagan spoke twice at this biennial convention, in 1980 and
1984. The Presidential candidates of both parties have spoken before
this convention since 1968. Gov. Dukakis is speaking just after you.
2,000 Jewish delegates are expected.
A Washington Jewish Week reporter, Larry Cohler, has alleged that 6
Bush-Quayle '88 Ethnic leaders whose names were announced by you at a
August 2 press conference made anti-Semitic statements or were involved
with anti-Semitic activities (e.g. membership in the Iron Guard, or
expression of support for the "Holocaust is a Hoax" theory). Your
chairman, James A. Baker III, has issued a pertinent statement on behalf
of the Campaign this morning. (A copy of the statement is attached).
III. PARTICIPANTS
Mr. Max M. Fisher, honorary chairman of Bush-Quayle '88 National Jewish
Campaign Committee
Mr. Gordon B. Zacks, national chairman, Bush-Quayle '88 NJCC
Mr. Seymour Reich, president, B'nai B'rith International
2,000 Jewish delegates
IV. PRESS PLAN
Open
V. SEQUENCE OF EVENTS
The Vice President arrives at Baltimore Convention Center
The Vice President is greeted by Seymour Reich and Tom Neumann, and
members of the Bush-Quayle '88 Jewish steering committee
The Vice President participates in photo opportunity in holding room
The Vice President meets with former Israeli ambassador to the
United States Meir Rosenne for three minutes
The Vice President, accompanied by Max Fisher and Seymour Reich,
enters the main hall and ascends the podium
The Vice President is introduced by Max Fisher
The Vice President addresses the convention delegates
The Vice President holds up photo-prop
The Vice President concludes remarks
The Vice President descends podium
The Vice President departs Convention Center for BWI airport
Attachment F
Page 9
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: MARK NEUMAN
SEPTEMBER X, 1988
(202) 624-8601 EXT. 5021
VICE PRESIDENT BUSH TO ADDRESS B'NAI B'RITH CONVENTION
Vice President Bush announced today that he will address the B'nai B'rith
International convention on September 7 in Baltimore, MD.
Mr. Bush will speak to the convention at the Baltimore Convention Center in
the late afternoon (exact time to be released later).
He will be addressing a nationwide Jewish audience of about 2,000 delegates.
President Reagan addressed the same biennial convention in 1980 and 1984.
Founded in 1843, B'nai B'rith is the oldest and largest Jewish service
organization in the world. Its 500,000 members reside in 41 countries
worldwide.
The Vice President will be joined on the dais by the Steering Committee of
the Bush-Quayle '88 National Jewish Campaign Committee
Attachment F
Page 8
FACT SHEET
B'NAI B'RITH SPEECH
September 7, 1988
FROM:
MARK NEUMAN
TO:
INTERESTED PARTIES
EVENT:
Vice President's speech to B'nai B'rith International
Convention
DATE:
September 7, 1988 (Wednesday)
TIME:
Afternoon (between 3 and 5 p.m.)
PLACE:
Baltimore Convention Center
1 East Pratt Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
(301) 659-7000
PURPOSE:
To provide the Vice President with exposure to a
national Jewish audience
BACKGROUND:
President Reagan addressed this convention, which is held
every every two years, in 1980 and 1984. The Presidential
candidates of both parties have spoken before this
convention since 1968. Gov. Dukakis will be speaking the
evening of September 7. Founded in 1843, B'nai B'rith is
the oldest and largest Jewish service organization in the
world. Its 500,000 members reside in 41 countries world-
wide.
ATTENDANCE:
2,000 Jewish delegates are expected
PARTICIPANTS:
Gordon Zacks
Max Fisher
Seymour Reich, President, B'nai B'rith International
Tom Neumann, Executive Vice President,
B'nai B'rith International
CONTACT:
Dan Mariaschin
Director of Public Affairs
B'nai B'rith International
(202) 857-4995, 4993
PROJECT
OFFICER:
Mark Neuman (202) 624-8601 x5021
Special Assistant to the Deputy Campaign Manager/
Political Director
PAGE
9
1ST STORY of Level 1 printed in FULL format.
Copyright 1992 PR Newswire Association, Inc.
PR Newswire
August 11, 1992, Tuesday
SECTION: Washington Dateline
DISTRIBUTION: TO NATIONAL AND FOREIGN EDITORS
LENGTH: 147 words
HEADLINE: B'NAI B'RITH WELCOMES AMERICAN ACTION ON LOAN GUARANTEES
DATELINE: WASHINGTON, Aug. 11
KEYWORD: bc-B'Nai-B'rith-loans
BODY:
B'Nai B'rith has welcomed today's announcement by President Bush that
the U.S. administration is now ready to grant $10 billion in loan guarantees to
Israel, for the absorption of new immigrants.
"We are grateful that Israel's request for this humanitarian assistance is
now in the process of being granted," said B'nai B'rith International President
Kent E. Schiner. "We are equally pleased that the tenor of the talks between
President Bush and Prime Minister Rabin appears to have been friendly and
productive. As Middle East peace negotiations resume, we look forward not only
to continued close consultation and agreement between the United States
and Israel, but also to rapid progress on reaching interim autonomy arrangements
and, eventually, a just and lasting settlement." CONTACT: Buzzy Gordon or Dan
Mariaschin of B'nai B'rith, 202-857-6536
ORGANIZATION: B'Nai B'rith
GEOGRAPHIC: District of Columbia
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7
1ST STORY of Level 2 printed in FULL format.
Copyright 1992 PR Newswire Association, Inc.
PR Newswire
March 18, 1992, Wednesday
SECTION: Washington Dateline
DISTRIBUTION: TO NATIONAL AND FOREIGN EDITORS
LENGTH: 185 words
HEADLINE: B'NAI B'RITH INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT ISSUES STATEMENT ON
BUSH ADMINISTRATION'S REFUSAL TO GRANT LOAN GUARANTEES TO ISRAEL
DATELINE: WASHINGTON, March 18
KEYWORD: bc-B'nai-B'rith-Israel
BODY:
The following is a statement by Kent E. Schiner, international president,
B'nai B'rith:
We are distressed and profoundly disappointed with the Bush
administration's refusal to grant loan guarantees to Israel. These
loans were to be used for humanitarian purposes -- assistance in the
absorption of Soviet refugees. President Bush and Secretary Baker
have insisted on linking these loans to a political issue - Israel's
policy on settlements in the West Bank and Gaza.
All the parties interested in the issue - Israel, the Congress,
the Jewish community - have evidenced a desire to compromise; only
the Bush administration remains adamant and unyielding. President
Bush insists that his rigidity in the matter is necessary to further
the peace process, a view with which we strongly disagree. More than
ever, Israel needs the support and encouragement of its ally, the
United States. Denial of that support can only damage the
relationship and undermine the path to peace in the Middle East.
CONTACT: Art Shulman of B'nai B'rith, 202-857-6536
ORGANIZATION: B'nai B'rith
GEOGRAPHIC: District of Columbia
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2ND STORY of Level 1 printed in FULL format.
Copyright 1992 American Political Network, Inc.
The Hotline
June 15, 1992
SECTION: WHITE HOUSE '92
LENGTH: 653 words
HEADLINE: CLINTON "THIS MORNING": AN A.M. FIXTURE LIKE HAM AND EGGS
BODY:
He appeared on "CBS This Morning" for the full two hours and
took questions from an audience of 81 and panels of viewers from
across the country.
SISTER SOULJAH: Asked by CBS' Harry Smith about his "aim"
with comments to the Rainbow Coalition about rapper Sister
Souljah: "I wouldn't call it an attack, I just disagreed with her
remarks
I thought (her remarks were) a good example of just
how profoundly alienated and divided some of us are from one
another. And I gave it as an example of the kind of thing we
have to overcome
a lot of people have overreacted to it. I
stand by what I said." Asked about those who say he was
"pandering to white, suburban voters": "Why would I have done
that to the Rainbow Coalition? I did not go to some group of
white conservatives."
ON PEROT: Asked by CBS' Paula Zahn if he agreed with
Quayle's characterization of Perot as "a temperamental tycoon and
a man who has contempt for the Constitution": "It's hard to know
because he hasn't said much about what he believes
The
(Perot) phenomenon happened because the American people are
disappointed, frustrated, and angry that nothing gets done in
Washington. And they think both parties are to blame, and I
think they're right about that. Although, I think if you want to
be president, if you want to be the lead dog in the hunt
you
have to take primary responsibilities for the country."
CAMPAIGN FINANCE: Asked by an audience member about PACs
and lobbies: "The law should be changed. I don't think a PAC
should be able to give any more than a person can Secondly,
I
think we should limit the
cost of congressional campaigns.
The
third
thing
we ought to do is to open the airwaves so
that when people get in these races for Congress there's an
honest debate on the local television or radio station, so that
TV becomes an instrument of education, not a weapon of
assassination - like what we're doing today. And then I think
there should be some further restrictions on lobbyists."
ALSO: Asked by Planned Parenthood's Joan Coombs about the
"gag rule": "I'm opposed and I would repeal it by executive
order in the first week of my presidency." Clinton, in response
to B'nai B'rith VP Joel Kaplan, said he did not favor the
creation of an independent Palestinian state, but "I do support
the peace process now under way in the Middle East." Clinton,
asked by atty Chris McGoey if he is considering a female VP: "I
am considering = The crowd: "Who? Who?" Zahn, referring to
CA's state Treasurer and sister of Jerry Brown: "Is her name
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The Hotline, June 15, 1992
Kathleen Brown?" Clinton: "I'm not going to discuss individuals,
but I am considering women for Vice Presidential nominee."
Clinton, asked by Rev. Dr. James Forbes what would be the
"spirit" of his admin.: "Can-do, upbeat, optimistic" (6/15).
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SUP- - 4-92 FRI 13:22 0
P.01
FAX
BUSH
QUAYLE
92
1030 15th St. NW
Washington, DC 20005
Date:
To: MICHELLE NIX
Organization:
Fax Number: 456-6218
From: MARK NEUMAN
Organization: BQ '92
Number of Pages to Follow:
Phone Number:
Comments: Article as promised about Bush's past
in Civil Rights
Confidentiality Notice
The document accompanying this telecopy transmission contains information belonging to the sender which is
confidential and may be legally privileged. The information is intended only for the use of the individual or
distribution entity named above. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying.
prohibited. If you have received this telecopy in arror, please immediately notify us by telephone to arrange for
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SUP-
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FRI
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P.02
residence. This rather tenuous bond to
Texas inspired local Democrats to rent
Bush's $515-a-night suite during the
1988 presidential campaign and to
stage a variety of smirky media events.
The Houstonian was also the site in
1982 where vice president Bush ill-ad-
visedly denied having termed Ronald
Reagan's economic vision "voodoo eco-
nomies" during the 1980 presidential
primaries. "I never said it,' he told the
press at the Houstonian, adding, "I
challenge anyone to find it." A few days
later NBC Nightly News aired the
damning videoclip.
9 S. West Oak Drive In fact, Bush does
own property in Houston-a vacant lot.
It measures 33 feet wide and 160 feet
long, and while presently it doesn't do
much for the vision thing, the possibili-
ties for a new order are endless.
Bush the
Education
President...
Rico University, Herman Brown Building,
Room 227 In this small lecture hall in
1977, Bush-suddenly out of a job after
President Carter did not retain him as
While Interest retes are low, will George and Bar build on their property?
CIA director-served a semester as ad-
month later Bush ran unopposed in the
junct professor of the Jesse H. Jones
Republican primary.
Graduate School of Administration. The
course: Organization Theory.
the Realist
...the
1750 West Loop South In the same
Idealist
Marriott Hotel conference room where
John Connally had withdrawn from the
935 Echo Lane In April 1968, after
presidential race only two months ear-
casting an affirmative vote on the open
lier, Bush on May 26, 1980, conceded
housing provision of the Civil Rights
the Republican nomination to Ronald
Act, Congressman Bush gave a speech
before booing constituents in the audito-
Reagan. Observing that Reagan had
amassed 1,001 delegates-3 more than
rium of Memorial High School. Over
the catealls, Bush declared, "Somehow
necessary to ensure nomination, and
731 more than Bush's total-he re-
it seems fundamental that a man-if he
marked, "I am an optimist. But I also
has the money and the good character-
know how to count to 998."
should not have a door slammed in his
face if he is a Negro or speaks with a
Latin American accent." At the conclu-
the Loyal
sion of his speech, Bush was given a
Party Man
standing ovation.
Miller Outdoor Theatre, Hermann Park
On September 6, 1968, Congressman
First City National Bank Building, Lemor
Bush introduced Republican presiden-
and Main, 29th Floor Shortly after
tial candidate Richard Nixon to a
winning over his constituents at Memo-
rial High, Bush repaired to the Ra-
crowd of 22,000, declaring, "Oh, what
mada Club, where he met with segre-
a great and thrilling night this is for
Houston."
gationist local businessmen. Their
words were harsh, but Bush didn't
...and
the
back down: "I did what I thought was
Bush and Baker excelled at doubles here.
right," he told them. "We agree on
Flip-flopper
most issues. This is one we don't agree
on. I hope I still have your support.
1200 Lovisiana On October 12, 1987,
But if I don't have your support, I
George Bush stood in the atrium of the
hope I still have your friendship. If I
Hyatt Regency and formally announced
don't have your friendship, I'm sorry,
his intention to run for the presidency.
but I have to vote my conscience." A
Among his declarations that day: "I am
not going to raise your taxes--period."
Michelel7750
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
Nix
9
September 3, 192
MEMORANDUM FOR DENNIS ROSS
DAVID DEMAREST
FROM:
CECE KREMER Ceee
RE:
B'NAI B'RITH 150TH INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION
Yesterday we held an initial meeting to discuss the sequence of
events for the President's address to the 150th International
Convention of B'nai B'rith.
The President will arrive at the Sheraton Washington Hotel at
11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 8. He will participate in a
brief photo opportunity (5 minutes) with the executive committee
from the National Jewish Campaign Committee - Rudy Boschwitz, Max
Fisher, George Klein, Cheryl Halpern, Jack Stein, etc. Following
]
the President's address, the members of the executive committee
will have a press conference in a separate room in the hotel
announcing the National Jewish Campaign Committee.
Following the President's photo opportunity with this core group
of supporters, the President will then participate in a larger
photo opportunity in an adjacent room with 20-25 B'nai B'rith
board members. It has been suggested that in lieu of these
individual photos, the President may wish to participate in a
rededication ceremony of George Washington's letter written to
the Newport, Rhode Island Hebrew Congregation. As you may
remember, B'nai B'rith had written a separate invitation
requesting President Bush consider participating in a
rededication ceremony of this 202 year old letter which will be
reinstalled in the organization's Washington, D.C. Museum. B'nai
B'rith has been the permanent custodian of this letter since
1954. This letter is revered throughout the American Jewish
community and is held as an everlasting symbol of tolerance and
understanding. Because B'nai B'rith was hoping to have the
President address this international convention, the organization
did not push this initial request.
The rededication ceremony would be held in a meeting room just
off the main address site, and the B'nai B'rith board (20-25
members) would be invited to attend. If we opt for this
rededication ceremony instead of having the President participate
in the usual 25 additional photo ops, we would request expanded
press pool coverage including members of the Jewish press.
With regards to the actual address to the 1500 delegates, Kent
Schiner, the President of B'nai B'rith, will introduce Max
Fisher, who will in turn introduce President Bush. The President
will then deliver his address. still under consideration is the
Q & A session following the address. If we would like to do Q &
A, Kent Schiner will pool the delegation for possible questions
prior to the President's arrival. He will then select questions
to be directed to the President.
Confirmed guests at the convention:
Prime Minister Rabin - Monday by teleconference (with Q & A)
President Bush - Tuesday morning
Ambassador Shoval - Tuesday 12:15 luncheon
Bill Clinton - Wednesday afternoon by teleconference (with Q & A)
Attachments:
1988 Briefing Paper
1988 Press Release
1988 Fact Sheet
1988 Address
Memo from Mimi Dawson regarding media plan announcement of Bush-
Quayle '92 National Jewish Campaign Committee
CC: Richard Haass
September 3, 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR DAN MC GROARTY
FROM:
MICHELE NIX
SUBJECT:
B'NAI B'RITH
This convention kicks off B'nai B'rith's Sesquicentennial
celebration -- the organization dates back to 1843.
Right now, the event is planned as 3-tier: (1) POTUS
participates in a rededication ceremony for the 202-year-old
George Washington letter; (2) Photo op with a handful of members
of the National Jewish Campaign Committee; (3) Presidential
remarks before a crowd of 1500 delegates. (Kent Schiner, Pres of
B'nai B'rith, will intro Max Fisher. Max Fisher will intro
POTUS.)
Following his remarks, a press conference will be held to
announce the Bush-Quayle '92 National Jewish Campaign Committee
(POTUS' participation is as yet undecided).
Clinton, that schmuck, will deliver remarks and do Q & A via
satellite -- just shows the lack of respect he shows to a
longstanding B'nai B'rith tradition of presidential candidates
personally standing before this group since 1964. What a goober.
The good thing here is that he will not be able to deliver an
emotional speech (because he has no emotions). He will not be
able to connect with the audience. He may be able to say the
right things, but he won't be able to deliver the sincerity, the
emotion that he'll have to in order to be believable.
I've included the following:
Notes from conversation with Mark Newman, BQ Campaign; and
Max Fisher
Info referred to by Newman and Fisher -- past GB speeches,
issues, etc.
Brief backgrounder re B'nai B'rith's
B'nai B'rith's involvement with Hurrican Andrew relief
efforts
Memo from Cece re proposed scenario
Memo to Bob Teeter from Mimi Dawson re media plan.
Copy of George Washington's letter (parchment and typed
version)
Letters of invitation, letter of request for President's
participation in rededication of GW letter
President Bush's 1988 remarks to B'nai B'rith as Vice
President (and 1988 schedule -- Cece says this year's
schedule will be very much the same as 1988's.)
Withdrawal/Redaction Sheet
(George Bush Library)
Document No.
Subject/Title of Document
Date
Restriction
Class.
and Type
03. Memo
Conversation with Mark NewmN and Max Fisher re: B'nai
n.d.
P5
B'rith. (2 pp.)
Collection:
Record Group:
Bush Presidential Records
Office:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Open on Expiration of PRA
Series:
Speech File, Backup
(Document Follows)
Subseries:
By SN (NLGB) on 4/5/2005
WHORM Cat.:
File Location:
B'nai B'rith 9/8/92 [3]
Date Closed:
12/4/2004
OA/ID Number:
07579
FOIA/SYS Case #:
Re-review Case #:
2004-2265-S
P-2/P-5 Review Case #:
MR Case #:
Appeal Case #:
MR Disposition:
Appeal Disposition:
Disposition Date:
Disposition Date:
RESTRICTION CODES
Presidential Records Act - [44 U.S.C. 2204(a)]
Freedom of Information Act - [5 U.S.C. 552(b)]
P-1 National Security Classified Information [(a)(1) of the PRA]
(b)(1) National security classified information [(b)(1) of the FOIA]
P-2 Relating to the appointment to Federal office [(a)(2) of the PRA]
(b)(2) Release would disclose internal personnel rules and practices of an
P-3 Release would violate a Federal statute [(a)(3) of the PRA]
agency [(b)(2) of the FOIA]
P-4 Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential commercial or
(b)(3) Release would violate a Federal statute [(b)(3) of the FOIA]
financial information [(a)(4) of the PRA]
(b)(4) Release would disclose trade secrets or confidential or financial
P-5 Release would disclose confidential advise between the President
information [(b)(4) of the FOIA]
and his advisors, or between such advisors [a)(5) of the PRA]
(b)(6) Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
P-6 Release would constitute a clearly unwarranted invasion of
personal privacy [(b)(6) of the FOIA]
personal privacy [(a)(6) of the PRA]
(b)(7) Release would disclose information compiled for law enforcement
purposes [(b)(7) of the FOIA]
C. Closed in accordance with restrictions contained in donor's deed of
(b)(8) Release would disclose information concerning the regulation of
gift.
financial institutions [(b)(8) of the FOIA]
(b)(9) Release would disclose geological or geophysical information
CONVERSATION WITH MARK NEWMAN AND MAX FISHER RE B'NAI BRITH
This is the only time the President has addressed a largely
Jewish American audience since his election in '88. This is
seen as a very important opportunity for him -- and the
audience is expecting to hear words of wisdom, leadership,
vision, emotion and sincerity.
There are three main themes to hit here:
First, Anti-Semitism. Mention the President's disgust for
recent events in Germany. Mention same disgust for domestic
hate crimes. The President's last State of the Union
address was unprecedented because it was the only time a
President has used that forum to speak out against anti-
semitism. Specifically, he said:
"
If you read the
papers and watch TV, you know there's been a rise these days
in a certain kind of ugliness: racist comments, anti-
Semitism, an increased sense of division. Really, this is
not us. This is not who we are. And this is not
acceptable."
Second, Church-State issue. Pat Buchanan's affiliation with
the President is seen as a quite a negative. Fisher
suggests the President give a strong assertion of his belief
in the separation of church and state. The President in
1988 asserted this with the words "Good fences, good
neighbors," paraphrased from a Robert Frost poem, "The
Mending Wall."
Also, the BB mission statement mentions "citizen
advocacy" -- an opportunity for the President to assert his
strong belief in this citizen advocacy -- "this is
fundamental to America." Fisher suggested the President
commend BB "for speaking out forcefully for what they
believe in." Commend them for speaking boldly, pushing the
debate, etc.
Third, follow by saying, "This is what I believe in. I
believe what you believe." The idea that hate and bigotry
are but a weak enemy to American values. Language that
asserts that the President will always speak out against
hate crimes, against bigotry, because "this is what I
believe. This is who I am."
Other points to address. Soviet Jewry re accomplishments of
the Bush Administration. Fisher will be addressing this
somewhat in his introduction -- citing that George Bush has
changed the world, opened doors for the Jewish people. Also
will suggest that if GB had been President in 1930s, Hitler
would have never enjoyed success, playing off of metaphor
with GB's unprecedented gathering of coalition partners for
Desert Storm.
In 1987, the President spoke to 250,000 Soviet Jews on
the mall, saying that the Soviet Jews should be allowed to
immigrate -- not just five or six. He said, "Let all those
who want to leave go." At the time, it was seen as "pie in
the sky" words, never to happen (much like the President's
call for the end of the Cold War). Since his Presidency,
350,000 Soviet Jews have immigrated to Israel; approximately
120,000 have immigrated to the U.S., with about another
45,000 expected by the end of this year.
In 1988 address to B'nai Brith, GB mentioned a banner
on the wall of the convention room: "I just noticed the
banner on the wall: 'Where do Soviet Jews apply for
Glasnost?' I fully endorse the question. We cannot stop
caring about the plight of others around the world." " Good
opportunity here to refer back to this.
The Israel issue -- which Fisher and Newman don't want to
step on the toes of Dennis Ross and Richard Haas, but will
assist if we need further info.
SUMMARY of EVENTS of INTEREST
to the
JEWISH COMMUNITY
during the
1992 REPUBLICAN CONVENTION
* Two explicit references to the Jewish community/Israel during President
Bush's acceptance speech:
1) "Arabs and Israelis now sit face-to-face and talk peace".
2) "I've fought against prejudice and anti-semitism all my life".
Neither Democratic presidential nominee Bill Clinton or Al Gore made a
single reference to Israel or to the Jewish community in their acceptance
]
speeches at the Democratic Convention in New York. In fact, the only
convention speaker to make a reference to either subject was the Rev. Jesse
Jackson. By contrast, at the Republican convention, in addition to President
Bush, former President Gerald Ford, Senator Mitch McConnell, Senate
candidate Alan Keyes, and several others each mentioned the Jewish
community or Israel.
* Vice President Quayle addressed several hundred Jewish delegates at an
A.I.P.A.C. briefing for convention participants. "I am pro-Israel and I am
proud of it." By contrast, Al Gore addressed A.I.P.A.C.'s counterpart briefing at
the Democratic convention and stunned the Jewish delegates by failing to
mention Israel even once.
* Senator Mitch McConnell's nominating speech on Wednesday evening gave
prominent mention to the U.S. - Israel relationship. McConnell stated, "The
fruit of this worldwide revolution is new hope for world peace. Just last week, President
Bush announced crucial loan guarantees for Israel - with the message that America
is committed to the permanent security of Israel and a lasting peace in the Middle East."
* Tom Dine, AIPAC's Executive Director, called the 1988 Republican platform
"Best platform ever Republican or Democrat". The 1992 Republican
platform is even stronger. Not only does the platform include 10 paragraphs
devoted to Israel, it also contains a firm condemnation of anti-Semitism and
hate crimes. The printed version of the platform contains a photograph of
George Bush in Israel overlooking the Western Wall in the old city's Jewish
quarter of Jerusalem. The accompanying caption reads, "This is a relationship
based on shared commitment to democracy and to common values, as well as the solid
commitment to Israel's security This is a special relationship built to endure." --George
Bush August 11, 1992.
By contrast, the Democratic platform includes no reference to any of the
following subjects mentioned in the Republican platform:
Elaborates importance of Israel to Americas strategic interest.
Support for large scale security assistance to Israel.
Pledges to maintain Israeli qualitative military advantage.
Praises Israel as only Democratic ally in Middle East.
Praises repeal of Zionism is Racism resolution at U.N.
Mentions rescue of Ethiopian Jewry.
Pledges U.S. opposition to an independent Palestinian state.
Supports Israel's right to exist in secure and recognized borders.
Pledges no dialogue with PLO unless strict conditions of President are met.
Supports true peace with treaties, diplomatic relations, trade, and tourism.
Declares the right of Jews to live anywhere in Jerusalem.
Supports multilateral peace negotiations on full range of issues.
Promises U.S. withdrawal from any U.N. body denying Israeli participation.
Declares freedom of emigration to be a fundamental human right.
Affirms right of Jews to resettle in Israel.
Praises loan guarantees for resettlement of refugees in Israel.
Calls for end to Arab Boycott of Israel.
* Max M. Fisher, Founding Chairman of the Jewish Agency and honorary
chairman of the Bush-Quayle '92 Finance Committee, addressed the
convention, explicitly as a representative of the American Jewish community.
Vice President Quayle later honored Fisher at a special reception in his honor.
*
Hundreds of "Pro-Israel Pro-Bush" signs blanketed the convention floor
during Thursday evening's session. Republican National Committee
Chairman Rich Bond held up the sign during a television interview stating,
"There isn't a single sign on this floor that I would be more proud to hold up."
* Auschwitz survivor Rabbi Isaac Neuman opened the Tuesday evening
session with a Hebrew prayer. Houston Rabbi Roy Walter of Emanu El
Congregation gave the benediction on Monday evening.
* 3% of the Republican delegates were Jewish. This figure is particularly
impressive when one considers the fact that only 15% of American Jews are
registered as Republicans (representing one half of one percent of the
Republican Party). By contrast, according to New York Times statistics, Jewish
representation to the Democratic convention dropped significantly.
Michelel7750
THE WHITE HOUSE
NIX
9
September 3, 192
MEMORANDUM FOR DENNIS ROSS
DAVID DEMAREST
FROM:
CECE KREMER Ceee
RE:
B'NAI B'RITH 150TH INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION
Yesterday we held an initial meeting to discuss the sequence of
events for the President's address to the 150th International
Convention of B'nai B'rith.
The President will arrive at the Sheraton Washington Hotel at
11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 8. He will participate in a
brief photo opportunity (5 minutes) with the executive committee
from the National Jewish Campaign Committee - Rudy Boschwitz, Max
Fisher, George Klein, Cheryl Halpern, Jack Stein, etc. Following
the President's address, the members of the executive committee
will have a press conference in a separate room in the hotel
announcing the National Jewish Campaign Committee.
Following the President's photo opportunity with this core group
of supporters, the President will then participate in a larger
photo opportunity in an adjacent room with 20-25 B'nai B'rith
board members. It has been suggested that in lieu of these
individual photos, the President may wish to participate in a
rededication ceremony of George Washington's letter written to
the Newport, Rhode Island Hebrew Congregation. As you may
remember, B'nai B'rith had written a separate invitation
requesting President Bush consider participating in a
rededication ceremony of this 202 year old letter which will be
reinstalled in the organization's Washington, D.C. Museum. B'nai
B'rith has been the permanent custodian of this letter since
1954. This letter is revered throughout the American Jewish
community and is held as an everlasting symbol of tolerance and
understanding. Because B'nai B'rith was hoping to have the
President address this international convention, the organization
did not push this initial request.
The rededication ceremony would be held in a meeting room just
off the main address site, and the B'nai B'rith board (20-25
members) would be invited to attend. If we opt for this
rededication ceremony instead of having the President participate
in the usual 25 additional photo ops, we would request expanded
press pool coverage including members of the Jewish press.
With regards to the actual address to the 1500 delegates, Kent
Schiner, the President of B'nai B'rith, will introduce Max
Fisher, who will in turn introduce President Bush. The President
will then deliver his address. Still under consideration is the
Q & A session following the address. If we would like to do Q &
A, Kent Schiner will pool the delegation for possible questions
prior to the President's arrival. He will then select questions
to be directed to the President.
Confirmed guests at the convention:
Prime Minister Rabin - Monday by teleconference (with Q & A)
President Bush - Tuesday morning
Ambassador Shoval - Tuesday 12:15 luncheon
Bill Clinton - Wednesday afternoon by teleconference (with Q & A)
Attachments:
1988 Briefing Paper
1988 Press Release
1988 Fact Sheet
1988 Address
Memo from Mimi Dawson regarding media plan announcement of Bush-
Quayle '92 National Jewish Campaign Committee
cc: Richard Haass
Attachment F
Page 7
SPEECH AT B'NAI B'RITH INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION
September 7
Baltimore Convention Center
5:00 p.m.
FROM: A. Mark Neuman
I.
PURPOSE
To provide the Vice President with exposure to a nationwide Jewish
audience.
II. BACKGROUND
President Reagan spoke twice at this biennial convention, in 1980 and
1984. The Presidential candidates of both parties have spoken before
this convention since 1968. Gov. Dukakis is speaking just after you.
2,000 Jewish delegates are expected.
A Washington Jewish Week reporter, Larry Cohler, has alleged that 6
Bush-Quayle '88 Ethnic leaders whose names were announced by you at a
August 2 press conference made anti-Semitic statements or were involved
with anti-Semitic activities (e.g. membership in the Iron Guard, or
expression of support for the "Holocaust is a Hoax" theory). Your
chairman, James A. Baker III, has issued a pertinent statement on behalf
of the Campaign this morning. (A copy of the statement is attached).
III. PARTICIPANTS
Mr. Max M. Fisher, honorary chairman of Bush-Quayle '88 National Jewish
Campaign Committee
Mr. Gordon B. Zacks, national chairman, Bush-Quayle '88 NJCC
Mr. Seymour Reich, president, B'nai B'rith International
2,000 Jewish delegates
IV. PRESS PLAN
Open
V. SEQUENCE OF EVENTS
The Vice President arrives at Baltimore Convention Center
The Vice President is greeted by Seymour Reich and Tom Neumann, and
members of the Bush-Quayle '88 Jewish steering committee
The Vice President participates in photo opportunity in holding room
The Vice President meets with former Israeli ambassador to the
United States Meir Rosenne for three minutes
The Vice President, accompanied by Max Fisher and Seymour Reich,
enters the main hall and ascends the podium
The Vice President is introduced by Max Fisher
The Vice President addresses the convention delegates
The Vice President holds up photo-prop
The Vice President concludes remarks
The Vice President descends podium
The Vice President departs Convention Center for BWI airport
Attachment F
Page 9
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: MARK NEUMAN
SEPTEMBER X, 1988
(202) 624-8601 EXT. 5021
VICE PRESIDENT BUSH TO ADDRESS B'NAI B'RITH CONVENTION
Vice President Bush announced today that he will address the B'nai B'rith
International convention on September 7 in Baltimore, MD.
Mr. Bush will speak to the convention at the Baltimore Convention Center in
the late afternoon (exact time to be released later).
He will be addressing a nationwide Jewish audience of about 2,000 delegates.
President Reagan addressed the same biennial convention in 1980 and 1984.
Founded in 1843, B'nai B'rith is the oldest and largest Jewish service
organization in the world. Its 500,000 members reside in 41 countries
worldwide.
The Vice President will be joined on the dais by the Steering Committee of
the Bush-Quayle '88 National Jewish Campaign Committee
Attachment F
Page 8
FACT SHEET
B'NAI B'RITH SPEECH
September 7, 1988
FROM:
MARK NEUMAN
TO:
INTERESTED PARTIES
EVENT:
Vice President's speech to B'nai B'rith International
Convention
DATE:
September 7, 1988 (Wednesday)
TIME:
Afternoon (between 3 and 5 p.m.)
PLACE:
Baltimore Convention Center
1 East Pratt Street
Baltimore, MD 21201
(301) 659-7000
PURPOSE:
To provide the Vice President with exposure to a
national Jewish audience
BACKGROUND:
President Reagan addressed this convention, which is held
every every two years, in 1980 and 1984. The Presidential
candidates of both parties have spoken before this
convention since 1968. Gov. Dukakis will be speaking the
evening of September 7. Founded in 1843, B'nai B'rith is
the oldest and largest Jewish service organization in the
world. Its 500,000 members reside in 41 countries world-
wide.
ATTENDANCE:
2,000 Jewish delegates are expected
PARTICIPANTS:
Gordon Zacks
Max Fisher
Seymour Reich, President, B'nai B'rith International
Tom Neumann, Executive Vice President,
B'nai B'rith International
CONTACT:
Dan Mariaschin
Director of Public Affairs
B'nai B'rith International
(202) 857-4995, 4993
PROJECT
OFFICER:
Mark Neuman (202) 624-8601 x5021
Special Assistant to the Deputy Campaign Manager/
Political Director
Attachment F
Page 1
Bush
Quayle
******
Excerpts of remarks from
VICE PRESIDENT GEORGE BUSH
B'NAI B'RITH INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION
Baltimore, Maryland
Wednesday, September 7, 1988
It's a great honor to address this convention. The B'nai B'rith are
children of the covenant, a covenant that has bound together the Jewish
people throughout their long history - through tragedy and through triumph.
Through the Holocaust to be reborn in the State of Israel!
This year Israel is celebrating her fortieth birthday. Middle age to most
people but just the beginning in the life of one of the world's most creative
nations. Over these years, the Israelis have shown the world how to build a
new society, how to give old values new life. And the best thing I could say
was what I wrote to Prime Minister Shamir on Israel's Independence Day: "I
want you to know that I, the President, and the American people stand with
you and your country. We shall never falter or waver in our support." Israel
has won a special place in America's heart and Israel has given America a new
perspective on history. It's a perspective that only a people who know how to
beat the odds of history, can provide.
We've got to take that long view as a nation. That's why we have
pursued a policy of peace through strength. Of keeping our guard up but also
our readiness to parlay. And that's how we were able to negotiate an arms
control treaty with the Soviet Union to eliminate a whole class of nuclear
weapons.
In doing so, we were symbolizing the hopes of mankind. But we didn't
do this as a unilateral concession, or at the expense of our security. We must
never do that and, as President, I'll never do that!
Truly, the lesson for our times is that deployments work better than
freezes if you want to get the Soviet Union to the table, if you want to get
equitable arms reduction. That strength works better than weakness if you
want to get both peace and security.
The members of B'nai B'rith know this lesson, too. Not so long ago, the
Jewish people paid a horrible price for the weakness of the Western
democracies. I say, never again. Never again!
The members of B'nai B'rith also know something else. Your covenant
begins with the Jewish people but doesn't stop there. You know that a good
community consists of families caring for each other, not only for themselves.
You know that a good nation consists of those communities extending the
reach of their goodness.
733 15th Street. N.W. Suite 800 Washington, D.C. 20005 202/842-1988
Attachment F
Page 2
I like that idea and I believe in it. I believe in an America strong and
prosperous, and an America that lives by standards. An America of honorable
public service. An America that takes its idealism and makes it concrete by
acts of goodness. A kinder, gentler nation. A tolerant America, enriched by
the contributions of many peoples and many cultures.
We may disagree in this country about many things, but we have a lot in
common. Reverence for education. Reverence for human life. Reverence for
law. Reverence for the principle of separation of church and state. And
reverence for the duty of human kindness, to help those less fortunate.
There's another thing we share. We are concerned about the wider
world, about the fate of humanity. You know as Jews, and we all know as
Americans, that we must take our place in the ranks, alongside those
struggling for freedom. Soviet Jews, seeking to emigrate. Ethiopian Jews
seeking to find their real home. The State of Israel searching for peace. Our
own freedom is diminished as theirs is diminished.
My friends, these are the hard truths of history. We should not have to
relearn them.
I mentioned earlier that idealism must be translated into concrete acts.
Let me take just a few minutes to discuss some very concrete acts that our
Administration has taken with respect to Israel and the search for peace.
[I just noticed the banner on the wall: "Where do Soviet Jews apply for
Glasnost?"]
[I fully endorse the question. We cannot stop caring about the plight of
others around the world.]
Back in 1980, we had an idea and it was called "Israel, strategic ally." It
was a simple idea and a big one. We believed that Israel was not just the
object of our sympathy and our goodwill but a full-fledged partner with the
United States. A partner fully capable of contributing to our security.
Well, that caused a revolution in Washington. Lots of people were
aghast. We were told that our interests in the region would be jeopardized.
That even the use of the expression would set off drastic diplomatic
repercussions. Well, they were wrong and we were right!
Even as strategic cooperation with Israel has gone forward, we have
forged a stronger relationship with Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and other Gulf
states. Today, it is clear that we can have an alliance with Israel and still
pursue better relations with other countries in the area. We can work
constructively with those states and not diminish our relations with Israel.
And despite this some people still have trouble saying the words, "Israel,
strategic ally." Well, I don't. Israel, strategic ally. It's got a nice ring to
it. The ring of hard, enduring reality.
What are the results of our efforts?
Attachment F
Page 3
Today, the United States and Israel are engaged in joint planning on
mutual threats in the Mediterranean. Eight years ago, joint planning was not
even in the dictionary of U.S.-Israeli relations.
Today, the United States and Israel have prepositioned supplies and are
building an infrastructure to deal with emergencies. Eight years ago, a former
President regarded Israel as a strategic liability -- can you figure that? -- not
an asset to U.S. action in the Middle East.
Today, the United States and Israel engage in joint military exercises.
Eight years ago, the ships of the sixth fleet were often forbidden even to buy
fruits and vegetables from Israel.
Today, we have a model free-trade agreement with Israel, of benefit to
both countries. Eight years ago, this idea hadn't even been discussed, much
less put on the agenda for action.
Today, the United States and Israel are partners in developing new
technology, whether it be drones to gather intelligence at less risk to our
pilots or the new, urgent project of defense against tactical missiles, part of
the Strategic Defense Initiative. Eight years ago, we could only admire
Israel's technological achievements from afar, not be partners in their
development.
When someone tells you that missile defense is a fantasy, just think of
Israel. Israelis know something about military technology and they know
something about real threats. In a region where missiles are dangerously
proliferating into the hands of radical regimes, where we've seen the horrors
of chemical warfare, missile defense if no fantasy. It's a necessity.
Israel understands that. Israel understands it is facing a threat like none
it's faced before. That's why it was the first country to sign up on our joint
research and development on SDI. And that's why I am proud that we are
working with Israel today on the Arrow project, and anti-tactical ballistic
missile to counter this new danger.
A word on chemical weapons. You know, I've seen a few things in my
time. But I thought we had banished forever the sight of human beings
tortured by chemical warfare. The sight of a mother trying desperately to
shield her child against the drifting winds of death.
That's why an international effort to make sure chemical weapons are
never, never used again will be at the top of my agenda as President!
Let me sum it up. Eight years ago, strategic partnership with Israel was
a dream of many of those who came into the Reagan-Bush Administration.
Today, we've translated it into reality. And this is my pledge: the American-
Israeli strategic partnership is going to be even stronger tomorrow!
Attachment F
Page 4
We need that partnership. It is in our self interest as well as America's,
not least to deter a Soviet Union still building its military strength in the
area. Talk to the sailors and the pilots of our sixth fleet as they contemplate
the expansion of a Soviet sea power, recently reinforced by the Soviet
development of a base at Tartus, in Syria. They know Israel as a friendly
place these Sixth Fleet boys -- and they are reassured knowing better
knowing that Israel and the United States are always on the same side!
The U.S.-Israeli partnership is fundamental for another reason. As
Foreign Minister Peres said, "Israel has never asked the United States for its
soldiers, only for its diplomats and peacemakers." Our partnership holds the
key to peace in the Middle East.
We all know that the peace process is at a difficult stage. No one can
foretell where the tragic events of recent months will lead. Yet I believe that
we can make progress toward peace if we follow these principles.
First, U.S.-Israeli cooperation is fundamental to our strategic interests.
No threat, no stone thrown, is strong enough to divide us. No wedge will be
driven between us.
Second, peace will be achieved through direct negotiations by the parties.
It cannot be imposed. It cannot be evaded. The United States stands ready
to help such a negotiation, as we have done on a bipartisan basis since the
early seventies. but we shall not be party to a proceeding by the U.N. or any
other international group to deny Israel's legitimacy or to force her to accept
a bad deal. We are not going to do that. As far as I'm concerned, when it
comes to the Middle East, the U.N. General Assembly renders itself irrelevant
because of the infamous "Zionism is Racism" resolution. It is wrong.
Third, the purpose of a negotiation is real peace. Peace for Israel.
Peace for her neighbors. That's what it is all about. We have stood together
for too long through too many crises with too many lives sacrificed to settle
for an armistice, or a temporary truce or a false peace. Egypt has shown the
way. It's time for others to follow.
Fourth, as George Shultz has said, the Palestinians must be involved at
every step in the negotiations. It is their choice to help end the misery.
There will be no peace without them. It's their choice to help end the misery
into which this region has been plunged.
As for the PLO, I will insist that unless the PLO accept U.N. Resolutions
242 and 338, recognize Israel's existence, abandon terrorism and change its
covenant calling for Israel's destruction, the U.S. will not recognize or have
any discussions with that organization. I will insist not only because we have
made a promise to Israel, but because it is the right thing to do.
If the PLO cannot meet these principled conditions, then it is obviously
not capable of either negotiating or delivering peace.
The stakes are just too high to be satisfied by ambiguous formulations.
We need plain talk. No nonsense. No equivocations.
Attachment F
Page 5
And one other thing. I have made very clear that I am opposed to an
independent Palestinian state for a simple reason. Such a state would be a
threat to the security of Israel and of Jordan, which is crucial to any lasting
settlement of the conflict. And, I would add, it would also be contrary to
American interests.
Anyone who has trouble making up his mind on this issue, or who
proposes to leave it open, just doesn't understand the dangers to Israel and to
the United States; just doesn't understand the very real threats that continue
to exist. My Administration would not support the creation of any Palestinian
entity that would jeopardize Israel's security -- our strategic ally.
The creation of a Palestinian state will not lead to peace. But we must
be clear on another matter, too. Neither will annexation of the territories by
Israel or their permanent control by military occupation.
There has got to be another way, a better way, and that's what the
peace process is all about.
I understand something about security, and in a Bush Administration we're
not going to relax our vigilance on threats to the United States or to Israel.
And I understand something about diplomacy, too. That's why I pledge to you
here and now that we're going to find a way to peace, we're going to keep it,
it's going to be a priority for me as President!
Let me conclude on this note. In a few days, the Jewish people will be
marking a new year. That begins the period of repentance, which concludes
with Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement.
It's a time of soul-searching, something we should all do on occasion,
even in Washington.
It's also a time for rededication to God and to our fellow human beings.
To realize that our ideals are worked out here on earth, between each other.
Perhaps it would not be too much to say that in a democracy, an election
serves a similar purpose. At its best, the process reminds us of what our
country is all about. Of our traditions, the principles that guide us in
everyday life. Of our future and how to make the best of it.
That's what this election is all about. Building on the peace and
prosperity of these last eight years, expanding it to those who deserve more
of it, here in America and in the Middle East and other areas of a disturbed
world.
And it's about something more. At the Republican convention, I declared
that I hoped to stand for a new harmony, a greater tolerance. We're on the
way to a new century and it's time at last to leave the tired old baggage of
bigotry behind us. There is no room in this country for racism or for anti-
Semitism. Not in New York, not in Chicago, not anywhere in this great
country! It's the duty of every American, especially those who aspire to
leadership to condemn it wherever and whenever it appears. I condemn anti-
Semitism now and i will always condemn it.
Attachment F
Page 6
That's why the Reagan-Bush Administration supports OSI -- the Nazi-
hunting Office of Special Investigations, and I will support it as President.
Over the last eight years the OSI budget has been raised, and as President I
will continue to support its investigations against Nazi war criminals residing
in America.
So, I've come here today to tell you of my determination to eradicate
bigotry, my dedication to spreading prosperity, my determination to spread the
peace, to energize the peace process in the Middle East, so that Israel and her
neighbors can fulfill at last the vision of turning swords into plowshares.
That's why I'm here today. To define that mission and to declare my
dedication.
I ask for your help as I work for a better America.
Thank you.
May you be inscribed in the book of life.
September 2, 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR BOB TEETER
FROM:
MIMI DAWSON
SUBJECT:
Information:
Media plan for announcement of
Bush-Quayle '92 National Jewish
Campaign Committee
The announcement of the Bush-Quayle '92 National Jewish
Campaign Committee will immediately follow the President's
official speech to B'nai B'rith on Tuesday, September 8, 1992, at
11 a.m. at the Sheraton Washington. The precedent for this
strategy is the highly successful announcement of the Evangelical
coalition in Dallas following the President's official National
Affairs Briefing address.
Format
o
After the President's B'nai B'rith address, Jewish media
will be invited to attend a press conference in a nearby
room. Max Fisher and/or Rudy Boschwitz will likely conduct
the press conference.
Key Jewish supporters of Bush-Quayle will be invited to
ensure a sizeable friendly audience.
A separate schedule proposal will be submitted requesting
the President meet with leaders of the Jewish Campaign
Committee, then make the announcement himself at the press
conference.
Communications output
Coalitions press will broadcast FAX a media advisory to
Jewish press on Friday morning, Sept. 4, alerting them to
the announcement.
Coalitions press will broadcast FAX a press release on the
announcement on Tuesday morning, Sept. 8. Names of JCC
leaders will be attached. Copies of the release will be
distributed on-site.
Campaign costs
room rental at Sheraton
podium
stage
mult box, microphone, sound mix
photographer
banner ("Bush-Quayle '92 Jewish Campaign Committee" banner
will be purchased through the Campaign vendor, Signs of
Imagination. This sign will be reused by state operations.)
B'nai B'rith plan
Because the President's B'nai B'rith address is official, we
will let B'nai B'rith public affairs handle media advisories
and press releases for that appearance.
Campaign targeting will be to general media in the 14 Jewish
ADI's. We will work closely with Mike Caputo and Mark Berry
on this.
Coalitions press will alert Christian outlets, including:
CBN
American Christian Trust (3520 Van Ness)
WAVA, WABS, WFAX
Christian American tabloid (John Wheeler)
Note:
This strategy should help keep Clinton off Jewish front
pages through the critical High Holy Day period.
Clinton won't be at B'nai B'rith. Message: Clinton
has plenty time for stock car racing, but no time for
Jews.
318016
B'NAI B'RITH INTERNATIONAL
KENT E. SCHINER. PRESIDENT
6/14
March 25, 1992
President George Bush
The White House
Washington, DC 20500
Dear Mr. President:
I have the honor to invite you to be the principal speaker at the reinstallation
and rededication of President George Washington's letter to the Hebrew
congregation in Newport, Rhode Island, written in August of 1790, in which he
expressed the hope that "the children of the Stock of Abraham who dwell in
this land. shall sit in safety under his own vine and figtree, and there shall be
none to make him afraid."
There is no presidential letter in the long history of our country which has so
deep a hold on the hearts and minds of the Jews of the United States of
America. B'nai B'rith has been the permanent custodian of this letter since
1954, and its enduring importance has caused the B'nai B'rith to undertake a
significant reinstallation of it so that the tens of thousands of individuals who
pass each year through the B'nai B'rith Klutznick Museum can more fully
appreciate its historic message, and the context in which it was written.
It is my hope to formally reinstall the Washington letter in mid June. The
most suitable dates on the B'nail B'rith calendar are June 9-12 and June 15-18
I hope that you can find a convenient date among these, but if not, I am sure
we can find another suitable date. Coordinating this event at B'nai B'rith is
Dr. Michael Neiditch, Director of Programs, whom you know from his work for
you when you were Vice President. If you are able to accept this invitation, I
will be glad to work with your staff to coordinate the most suitable date and
time.
Throughout your entire public career you have been a sturdy champion of
tolerance, and a steadfast opponent of anti-Semitism. Thus, it is singularly
appropriate that B'nai B'rith has undertaken this work during your presidency.
1640 RHODE ISLAND AVE., NW. WASHINGTON, DC 20036-3278 202-857-6553 FAX 202-296-0638
President Bush
Page 2
I enclose a facsimile copy of President Washington's letter. I trust that you
will be able to join with us and reaffirm his pledge that "happily the
Government of the United States givès to bigotry no sanction, to persecution
no assistance.. If
With high regard and every good wish.
Sincerely,
Kent E. Schiner
President
Enclosure
President Washington's "To Bigofry No Sanction" Letter
To the Hebrew bongregation m Newport Rhode Island.
While breceive. with much patisfaction,
the Government ofthe blouted States, which gover to
your addrefs refulate with of affection
bigotry no senction, topensecution me afristance,
and istern; Iryoice in the opportunity of afouring
requires only that they who live smoker all protections,
you, that Ishall always retain agrateful -
should desnam transcloss as good colozions, goving
brance of Me cordine welcome Nanperienced in
it one all occasions these effectual support.
my visit to Mumport. from all clafor of bitizens.
It would 60 memoistant with the funkness
The reflection - the days of difficulty and
of my character not a away that I arere pleased with
danger which me paper is wondered the more sweet,
your favorable openion of my administration, and
from a consumencys that they are macroled by days
forsent wishes for my feling. May the bhildren
of ancommon prosperity ann security. I fore have
the stock of abrahmire who druck in this land, amothers
wisdom A make the Botterse of the advantages with
to ment and eryoy the good will of attras Inhabitants,
which we arenow favored, we cannot fails moler the
while mary one shall in wafety immer for own
just administration of good Government, Abums
arime and figtree, and there shall be none n make
agrent and akappy people.
him frain. May The father of an marring Matth
The Bettzons of the United States of America
have a right to applaud themselves A having given
light and not Harknef in m/me orn fraths, and make
w an in om vocations have, and in his
15 Mankind examples of - enlarged and Coberal
policy: policy worthy of mitation au proferp
alike liberty of conscience and immunities of
own there time and way G. everlasting happy
citizenship Itismons more that toleration is
spoken of as if it was by the inderlgence of one
1790 August
clafe of people. that another enjoyed the exercise
Reply of Gent hungton
of their inherent natural rights. For happily
to Address of the Habrews
the
of Newport Ahoda I land
with Autograph Synuture
of G. Washington
Letter written by President Washington in which he states his conviction that "happily the
Government of the United States gives to bigotry no sunction, to persecution no assistance...
B NAI B 'RITH
am session
July 15, 1992
Mr. William Kristol
Office of the Vice-President
old Executive Office Building
Washington, D.C.
Dear Bill:
Our international convention will take place this year from
September 6-10 at the Sheraton Washington.
We've sent a letter of invitation to President Bush to address the
delegates much as he did in 1988. As you know, all the major
presidential candidates have addressed our conventions since the
early sixties.
I've been in touch with both the campaign and with Cece Kremer to
see if we can possibly tie down an acceptance. I'd appreciate any
help you could offer in that regard.
For your information, I'm enclosing a copy of the invitation to the
President.
Warmest, personal regards.
Cordially,
Dan
Daniel S. Mariaschin
Director
International and Governmental Affairs
CC: Cece Kremer
INTERNATIONAL HEADQUARTERS
1640 RHODE ISLAND AVENUE, NW, WASHINGTON. DC 20036-3278
202-857-6600 FAX 202-857-1099
B'NAI B'RITH INTERNATIONAL
KENT E. SCHINER. PRESIDENT
February 11, 1992
President George W. Bush
The White House
Washington, DC 20500
Dear Mr. President:
B'nai B'rith cordially invites you to address our
International Convention which will convene in Washington at the
Sheraton Washington Hotel from Sunday, September 6 to noon on
Thursday, September 10. At this convention some two thousand B'nai
B'rith leaders from nearly every state in the Union, and from more
than twenty-five countries will be in attendance.
It has become a tradition in American political life that the
two Presidential candidates take the opportunity of the unique
platform of the B'nai B'rith Convention to address those subjects
of particular interest to the Jewish American voter. Their
speeches enjoy a wide circulation, and serve as the basis for the
candidate's message to the Jewish community. We trust that you
fondly recall your own visit to the B'nai B'rith Convention in
1988. All of us in the B'nai B'rith family have warm recollections
of your speech, and throughout the past four years, your words have
often been quoted in Jewish circles.
We know that you are now building your campaign staff, and at
this early date we want to record our desire to have you return to
the B'nai B'rith Convention in 1992.
We will be glad to work closely with your staff in finding the
time on the Convention schedule that is most congenial to your own
campaign needs.
We know that your message will have a significant impact upon
us, and we very much look forward to having. you with us.
Sincerely,
Kent E. Schiner
CC: Dr. Sidney M. Clearfield
Dr. Michael Neiditch
Stephen M. Rudman
1640 RHODE ISLAND AYE., NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20036-3278 202-857-6553 FAX 202-296-0638
President Washington's "To Bigofry No Santion" Letter
To the Hebrew bongregation m Newport Rhode Island.
Geotlemm.
While breceive. with much pulisfaction,
the Government ofthe United States, which gives to
your addrefs refulate with supreferms of affection
bigotry me sonction, toperacution me afsistance,
and isterm; Iryoice in the opportunity of aparing
requires only that thing who live smoker its protections
you, that Ishall always retain a grateful
should desnean themselves as good catezions, going
brance of the cordias sucleme Denperienced in
it on all occasions their effectual support.
my misit to Newport, from all clafers of bitizens.
The reflection - the days of difficulty and
It would memoistent with the foonknep
of my character not to aww that I am pleased with
danga which are paft is rendered the more sweet,
your favorable openion of my administration, and
from a conscruments that they are increased by days
fervent wishes for my feling May the bhildren
of incommen prosperity and security. I fore have
the stock of abrahm who dwell m this land, continue
wesdom to make the book of the advaritages with
to merit and cryoy the good will of the other Inhabitants,
which we are now favored, we cannot fail, ander the
while every one shall not in wafety smoker this own
just administration ofs good Government, Abcume
arime and figtree, and there shall be none A make
agreat and a happy people.
him afraid. May father of an merical Matth
The betizens of the United States of America
have a right to applaud themselves for having given
light and not darknef in m/we orn fraths, and make
us an in our soveral vocations here, and in his
to mankind examples of an enlarged and liberal
policy: a policy worthy of imitation. au profesp
alike liberty fernicience and immunities of
own due time and way GWapherpton overlastingly happy
citizenship It no more that toleration is
spoken of as ifit was by the indulgence of one
1790 August
clap of peoper. that another enjoyed the exercise
Reply of Gent hungton
of their inhevent natural rights. For happily
to Address of Hebrows
the
of Newport Rhode Island
with dutog raph Signature
of G. Washington
Letter written by President Washington in which he states his conviction that "happily the
Government of the United States gives to bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance. "
Draft 2
September 4, 1992
8:30 a.m.
[BNAI]
PRESIDENTIAL REMARKS: B'NAI B'RITH
WASHINGTON, D.C.
SEPTEMBER 8, 1992
11:00 A.M.
It is a great honor to be here with you today.
[Acknowledgements.]
We've witnessed a world of change. Across Europe, across
continents, from Panama City to Prague, millions of men and women
now celebrate a new birth of freedom -- a new world of hope.
With change comes new challenges. For America, the end of
the Cold War means the beginning of a new era -- a new era of
economic competition that America simply must win. We must
recognize the new reality about domestic, economic and foreign
policies. In our world today, these three topics have become one
issue. In order to prevail, the United States must be not only a
military superpower, but an economic superpower -- an export
superpower as well. //
Yet our strength as a people is more than just the measure
of our GDP or per capita income. The state of our American union
reflects not simply the productivity of our economy but the
character of our society: How well we care for one another, in
the wake of natural tragedies like Hurricane Andrew -- in the
face of all-too-human tragedies of hate and unreason and
violence. This is what defines us. This is the true measure of
what America means, to ourselves -- to the world.
2
This willingness to reach out, to help those in need -- to
recognize across all the divides of color and culture and creed
our shared human spirit -- this is what B'Nai B'rith is all
about. For 150 years, the members of this organization have
served as the nation's conscience.
Perhaps more than anything else, the words B'nai B'rith
conjure up the necessity -- the moral and political imperative -
- to resist anti-semitism wherever and whenever it appears.
I wish that I could stand before you today and say that
anti-semitism has been eliminated in America and around the
world. / I cannot. / But I can commit to you that I will work
very hard here and with foreign leaders to do all I can to end
this scourge. // In this country, we will aggressively employ
the Hate Crimes Act to bring to justice those who traffic in the
gutter. And we will continue to lend our voice and use our law
to make it clear that there is no place, much less reason, for
this kind of prejudice. //
The United States is founded on principles that have served
us well -- principles that have served as a model for countless
others around the world for more than two centuries. No
principle is more sacred than that of religious liberty.
In the words of Washington, whose letter we rededicate
today:
"
the government of the United States
gives to
bigotry no sanction, to persecution no assistance
While
everyone shall sit in safety under his own vine and figtree, and
there shall be none to make him afraid." That freedom is no gift
3
of government -- no priviledge to be granted or withheld -- it is
a fundamental human right. //
As I said at the outset, we have entered a time of change
and challenge. Years ago I served in China, where it was wisdom
to say that times of great interest were a curse. Change has a
different aspect for a country like ours. The changes we've
witnessed -- the changes we've worked for -- are literally, the
American Dream come true. // Long after we are gone, historians
will speak of this period with wonder and awe.
( (As I've said before, the changes we have been a part of
are nothing short of Biblical -- a judgement that holds up
regardless of which testament one favors.) )
This is no exaggeration. Who, just a few years ago, would
have thought we would no longer live under the threat of nuclear
(holocaust) ? Who would have thought the scarring symbol of an
era -- the Berlin Wall -- would be found only in museums and
chipped into paperweights? But then, who would have predicted
the Soviet Union would be found only in the pages of history?
And while we are mentioning all that has changed for the
better, who would have predicted that ancient enemies would be
talking peace -- that direct, bilateral talks would be taking
place between Israel and her neighbors?
I can tell you, we were frequently told we couldn't succeed
-- that we'd never be able to bring them together. But we did.
I want to dwell for a moment on this breakthrough, because I
know it matters deeply to everyone in this hall. Let me take you
4
back nearly a year ago to another hall, in Madrid. There,
gathered around the table were representatives of Lebanon,
Jordan, Syria, Egypt, Palestinians -- and Israel. For nearly
half a century they had not met outside the battlefield. But for
the first time they came together not to fight -- but to talk.
Then, as now, the goal is peace -- real peace. Not simply
the end of war -- but genuine reconciliation. A peace both broad
and deep, a peace codified by treaties, and given life by trade
and tourism, by open borders -- a peace softened by the simple
human contact of peoples who've known each other far too long as
enemies. A comprehensive peace, rooted in Security Council
Resolutions 242 and 338. A peace that at long last will allow
the people of the Middle East to turn their energies, their
resources, their lives to creation rather than destruction -- to
great works rather than great wars.
Today, as we speak, the parties that met first at Madrid are
mid-way through the sixth round of bilateral negotiations. There
has been progress. Delegations are exchanging not only
handshakes, but for the first time -- written proposals. Public
posturing has decreased -- and meaningful private dialogue has
increased.
of course, major hurdles remain. It will take time and
effort and courage and trust. But there is clearly a way -- and
increasingly, a will.
The evidence is mounting: The many positive steps taken by
Israel's new government to improve day to day life for
5
Palestinians -- Egypt's invitation that made it possible for
Prime Minister Rabin to make his first trip outside Israel to an
Arab country -- Syria's relaxation of travel restrictions
affecting its Jewish citizens. [Further gestures by Israel,
matched by such Arab gestures as an end to their boycott, can
only help in bringing about an environment conducive for
negotiation and reconciliation.]
I am proud of the role we've played in breaking the long-
standing taboo against direct talks between Israel and her
neighbors. Israel sought direct talks for 43 years -- and it was
right to do SO. If you do not talk -- you know no hope of making
peace. Now, there is such a hope. I'm also proud of what we
have done to end Israel's diplomatic isolation internationally.
Thanks to our efforts, we succeeded -- after 17 years -- in
getting the UN General Assembly to repeal what should never have
been enacted in the first place. Zionism is not racism -- not
before / not now / not ever. //
And thanks to our efforts, China and India and Turkey and
many other nations -- countries representing 2 billion people --
have full diplomatic relations with Israel. Hundreds of
thousands of Jewish men, women and children who only a few years
ago lived in fear or neglect in the Soviet Union or Ethiopia now
live in Israel, free to live, work and worship as their heart
tells them they must.
That's important for Israel, not only psychologically -- but
also economically. Israel now has vast opportunities for trade
6
and commerce -- opportunities it is already turning to advantage.
Persuading parties to talk peace / ending Israel's
international isolation / assisting in the in-gathering of Jews
into Israel: These are the three great aims that have guided
Israel from its founding. We didn't just talk about helping
Israel in these areas -- we delivered. Anyone can talk -- we
developed strategies that produced. //
And we didn't stop there. We produced on Israel's security.
We stopped Saddam Hussein. //
Every step we took toward Iraq prior to August 2, 1990 may
not have been right. But we were not the reason Saddam Hussein
was on the verge of acquiring nuclear weapons. We were not the
reason Saddam Hussein had 5000 tanks -- or 5000 pieces of
artillery -- or the 4th largest army in the world.
And whatever differences I had with my critics -- and with
some would-be revisionists who want to rewrite history -- cannot
obscure this fact: After August 2, while my critics stood by and
second guessed -- I acted to take care of that threat. //
Ask yourself -- ask yourself where the Middle East would be
today -- where Israel's security would be today -- if we had
followed the counsel of my critics. Ask yourself where we should
be if we had someone in the Oval Office who would have
equivocated -- who would have wavered and wanted to have it both
ways. Where would we be? I'll tell you: We'd be facing a
nuclear-armed Iraq, with a choke-hold on the world's oil supplies
-- and threatening Israel's very existence. Israel's very
7
survival would be at stake -- and we'd be talking about nuclear
Armageddon in the Middle East -- not new hopes for peace.
That nightmare vision was driven away -- banished by Desert
Storm. America -- and all the world -- are thankful. //
There is still work to be done. The Middle East -- indeed,
the world -- is still a dangerous place. Terrorists continue to
target the innocent. The proliferation of conventional arms as
well as weapons of mass destruction casts a cloud over the
region's future; Iraq's Saddam Hussein, however much weaker and
defeated, still brutalizes his own people and resists the will of
the international community. The need for Israel to remain
strong is beyond question -- as is the need for close strategic
cooperation and partnership between our two countries.
As just one sign of that partnership, this week I am sending
to the Congress legislation requesting up to $10 billion in loan
guarantees to aid Israel's government in the absorption of these
newcomers. I know I can count on the support of every one in
this room to make sure that this proposal becomes law.
I would be less than honest if I did not acknowledge at this
point past differences surrounding this issue -- differences
between the United States and the previous government of Israel,
differences between my Administration and many of you here. Let
me address each in turn.
I am glad that Prime Minister Rabin and I were able to reach
an understanding on loan guarantees when we met in Kennebunkport
last month. What we have is a new Israeli government, one with
8
new priorities, committed to investing in Israel itself,
determined to avoid steps that could hamper progress toward
peace. A government that puts its word and trust at the center
of our relationship. I share that commitment and as a result, we
will be able to promote peace and welcome new immigrants at one
and the same time. Both are humanitarian undertakings; both
deserve our full support. It was important not to choose between
them, and I am glad that we are now in a position to promote both
objectives.
As for the future, I am confident that on most issues, on
most occasions, we and Israel will find ourselves in agreement.
I, for one, am committed to revitalizing the tradition of full
consultation between the United States and Israel on the entire
range of issues affecting stability in the Middle East. I know
the Prime Minister shares this commitment. There will be no
surprises.
Sometimes, however, I expect we will disagree. Sovereign,
democratic governments like Israel and the United States are
responsible to themselves and their own citizens.
But when disagreement between us happens, I pledge to you
that we will work hard to keep any divide to a minimum. Our
support for Israel and its security is not simply a policy. It
is a principle. As I said after Prime Minister Rabin and I met
in Maine, this is a relationship based on a shared commitment to
democracy and common values, as well as a shared commitment to
9
Israel's security, including its qualitative military edge. This
is a special relationship, one built to endure.
In that same spirit, I expect there will be issues when
those of us in this room will find ourselves on opposing sides.
This is something I, of all people, understand. // In the past,
some remarks of mine were misinterpreted. I have explained what
I intended; I have gone on the record expressing my sorrow for
any pain this may have caused.
Today let me make clear: I support, I endorse, and I deeply
believe in the God-given right of every American to promote what
they believe. It is your right as an individual. It is your
duty as a citizen. //
But let me also say that it is important that we learn how
to disagree. We must take great care with words. I hardly need
to tell anyone in this room just what anti-semitism is. As my
friend Abe Foxman pointed out, to accuse those who may come to
different conclusions on one or another public issue of harboring
anti-semitism is to cheapen the term. That is dangerous. That
is deeply wrong. And when those words, without justice, have
been aimed at me -- I can tell you: They cut to the heart. //
We must take care that this hateful human vice -- this
slander that has caused so much pain and suffering for the Jewish
people throughout the ages -- is not drained of its meaning.
Anti-semitism is an evil idea with an ugly history. Anti-
semitism must never be an empty word. //
10
And when anti-semitism arises, we -- Jew and Gentile alike -
- must fight it together. For anti-semitism has no place in
America -- or anywhere else in the world.
You are members of a community that has a long and great
tradition of political participation. B'nai B'rith stands for
opportunity, for tolerance, for opposing anti-semitism and the
ugly face of hate in all its forms. You stand too for stalwart
support for America's close friend and ally Israel.
Let me simply say that on all these issues -- I am proud to
stand with you. //
Thank you -- and may God bless the United States of America.
# # #
[ 491 ]
STRENGTH
It is hard to eat bread at a stranger's table. TALMUD: Bezah, 32
How shall we sing the Lord's song in a strange land?
Book of Psalms, 137 : 4
See also: CHARITY, DUTY, GOOD DEEDS, FRIENDS, KINDNESS, NEIGHBORS
STRENGTH
Separate reeds are weak and easily broken; but bound together they
are strong and hard to tear apart [like Israel's unity].
MIDRASH: Tanhuma, Nizavim: 1
See also: ENDURANCE, ENERGY, POWER, WEAKNESS
STUBBORNNESS
&
There is no cure for stubbornness.
§ Some men go from Heaven to Hell out of sheer stubbornness.
§
Stubbornness is a disease.
He who stiffens his neck against many reproofs will suddenly be
broken beyond repair.
Book of Proverbs, 29 : 2
God forgets the man who stubbornly rejects proof that he is wrong.
NACHMAN OF BRATSLAV
See also: ARGUMENT, BOASTING, CONCEIT, ERROR, SELFISHNESS
STUDENTS
What sacrifices was he not ready to bring, the Jewish youth
who trudged afoot from the banks of the Danube to the banks
of the Seine, bidding defiance to hunger and cold, only to
drink in the words of some far-famed master! How he would
wander about, a restless wayfarer, for half a year, across
ditches and mountains and among brigands on his journey
September 3, 1992
MEMORANDUM FOR DAN MC GROARTY
FROM:
MICHELE NIX
SUBJECT:
B'NAI B'RITH
This convention kicks off B'nai B'rith's Sesquicentennial
celebration -- the organization dates back to 1843.
Right now, the event is planned as 3-tier: (1) POTUS
participates in a rededication ceremony for the 202-year-old
George Washington letter; (2) Photo op with a handful of members
of the National Jewish Campaign Committee; (3) Presidential
remarks before a crowd of 1500 delegates.
Kent Schiner, Pres of B'nai B'rith, will into Max Fisher.
Max Fisher will intro POTUS.
I've included the following:
Notes from conversation with Mark Newman, BQ Campaign; and
Max Fisher
Info referred to by Newman and Fisher -- past GB speeches,
issues, etc.
Brief backgrounder re B'nai B'rith's
B'nai B'rith's involvement with Hurrican Andrew relief
effort
Memo from Cece re proposed scenario
Memo to Bob Teeter from Mimi Dawson re media plan.
Copy of George Washington's letter (parchment and typed
version)
Letters of invitation, letter of request for President's
participation in rededication of GW letter
President Bush's 1988 remarks to B'nai B'rith as Vice
President (and 1988 schedule -- Cece says this year's
schedule will be very much the same as 1988's.)