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Israel Bonds Dinner, Chicago, IL, April 11, 1965
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Israel Bonds Dinner, Chicago, IL, April 11, 1965
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The original documents are located in Box D17, folder "Israel Bonds Dinner, Chicago, IL, April 11, 1965" of the Ford Congressional Papers: Press Secretary and Speech File at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library. Copyright Notice The copyright law of the United States (Title 17, United States Code) governs the making of photocopies or other reproductions of copyrighted material. The Council donated to the United States of America his copyrights in all of his unpublished writings in National Archives collections. Works prepared by U.S. Government employees as part of their official duties are in the public domain. The copyrights to materials written by other individuals or organizations are presumed to remain with them. If you think any of the information displayed in the PDF is subject to a valid copyright claim, please contact the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library. Digitized from Box D17 of The Ford Congressional Papers: Press Secretary and Speech File at the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library Text of an address by Rep. Gerald R. Ford (R-Mich) at a testimonial dinner April 11, 1965 in Chicago for Cook County Sheriff Richard Ogilvie of Illinois We are here for several reasons this evening. One of them is to salute Sheriff Richard Ogilvie. I join you in applanding him for building a professional police force from scratch, handling the Dixmoor riots with courage, calmness and finesse, and providing an entremched political machine with strong and healthy opposition. His dedication is akin to the fin work of Don Runsfeld, who represents the 13th District in the House of Representatives as a staunch and articulate spokesman for the people back home in Illinois. I am delighted to be with you for other reasons...first, because of the most worthwhile cause this dinner supports. Very shortly the State of Israel will celebrate its seventeenth anniversary. In that brief period of history, a courageous and dedicated people have almost miraculously transformed a largely arid and undeveloped land into a modern industrial nation. As you well know, this tremendous progress has been accomplished under the most adverse circumstances. I commend those who in the face of such adversity have accomplished so much in so little time. Since the Israel Bond Organization was formed in 1951, Israel's agricultural production has increased nearly six times, industrial production has gone up five times, and experts have risen nine times. More than 11 million subscribers to Israel bonds should be justly proud of their contribution to this significant growth. -more- of GERALD LIBRARY R. Rep. Ford speech Chicago April 11, 1965 & With your aid, Israel has overcome serious economic, social and political problems. It has taken in many thousands of homeless refugees and given them meaningful and productive lives. It has even extended the hand of friendship, in the form of technical assistance, to nations which are less fortunate. On the African continent and in some parts of Latin America, Israeli teachers, irrigation experts, medical specialists and engineers are helping others to cross the barrier from "have-nots" to "haves." But the problems of Israel are not all in the past. While half of the nation is now fully developed, there is still another half that is in a primitive state, relatively spesking. These desert and waste areas must be irrigated, populated and made economically viable. There is still the need to absorb an expected 500,000 additional settlers by 1970. There is still the absolute necessity to go forward vigorously with Israel's present five-year plan for industrialization. However, with support such as yours, I have no doubt that the free and democratic State of Israel is well on its way to complete self-reliance and stability. Another reason for being pleased to be with you is more complicated and subtle. It is because your participation in this cause represents an outstanding example of one of the strengths of the American system. You have made a considerable commitment of time, effort, resources and emotion to help others with whom you feel spiritual ties. Too often, I believe, we stress the sameness, the homogensity of American life, while ignoring the healthy differences and variations that give such richness to the American fabric. GERALD LIBRURA -mors- Rep. Ford speech Chicago April 11, 1965 The texture of our Nation, which has contributed to its unparallelled greatness, comes from many ethnic, religious and nationality strains. America, as we know it and love 1t, is like a good soup. Its full flavor comes from the blending of many ingredients. Yet from many quarters we hear a great deal of talk about assimilation--- especially from the younger generation. And, of course, 1t is necessary that we should be alike in some in our standard of justice, our concept of democratic government, our common ideal of liberty and freedom. But, we must also recognize that we can pay too high a price for sameness. We can make our soup bland. There are differences that we cannot afford to lose. I do not like to believe, and do not concede, that in this country we have Italian-Americans, Irish-Americans, Afro-Americans or Jewish-Americans because the hyphen implies that different groups should be given different treatment. This is wrong. On the other hand, it is necessary to understand that different groups have added immessurably to American life because they are different. Out of their differences have grown ideas, a fuller cultural life, and a more interesting and stimulating America. Our national outlook is broader; our character stiffer. Rather than question in any way those who feel deep emotional ties to other countries--whether it be Israel or Ireland or Italy or Africa-we should salute this as a manifestation of the genius of our Nation. This is part of what we call Americanism. It is one of the things that makes both Israel and America unique in the world. The beauty of Joseph's coat was that it was of many colors. GERALD LIBRARY -more- Rep. Ford speech Chicago April 11, 1965 t And so I salute you tonight------ salute you for your support of a worthwhile cause-- and salute you, my fellow Americans, because you have unselfishly helped pave the road to economic self-reliance for the people of Israel. With pride you can 5 ay you have played a major role in Israel's progress. With your head high, you know you have personally shared in an enterprise of historic significance for the survival of the Jewish people and of the spirit of human freedom and dignity to which it is dedicated. ##### ###### Israel Bond Speech Chicago, April 11, 1965 By. Rep. Gerald R. Ford We are here for several reasons this evening. One of them is to salute Sheriff Dick Ogilvie. I join you in applauding him for building a professional police force from scratch, handling the Dixmoor riots with courage, calmness and finesse, and providing an entrenched political machine with strong and healthy opposition. Dick's dedication is akin to the fine work of Don Rumsfeld, who represents the 13th District in the House of Representatives as a staunch and articulate spokesman for the people back home in Illinois. In all modesty, I would like to say that I am uniquely qualified to be your speaker this evening. After all, we are here in tribute to a valiant little country which is completely surrounded by a numerically larger and hostile enemy. As Republican Leader of the House-where there are 140 Republicans and 294 Democrats--I, too, am part of a valiant little tribe completely surrounded by a numerically larger and hostile enemy. -more@ Israel Speech-Chicago & So I stand before you as something of an authority on the plight of the oppressed minorities. May I add a postecript----- I fervently hope that we in the minority party of this great Nation of ours exhibit the same dauntless courage, matchless ingenuity, and rugged integrity as did those stout-hearted pioneers of the State of Israel for the past 17 years or more. Israel and Ford well know the problems of dealing with those goyem! I might also add that Israel and the Republican Party have something else in common. Some people think that Senator Dirksen and David Ben Gurion use the same hair stylist! This dinner reminds me of President Kennedy's classic remark to R Democratic fund-raising function when he said "I am touched to be here, but not as much 38 you have been!" Being here recalls the story of Theodore McKeldin, the Republican Mayor of Baltimore, who is always popular at Israeli events. -more- Israel Speech=Chicago -3- Several years ago, McKeldin took a trip to Israel with his 1 riend Judge Simon Sobeloff, and on the way home their plane made a stop at Shannon, Ireland. McKeldin said to Sobeloff: "We have to get out and kiss the Blarney stone." When Sobeloff asked why, McKeldin answered: "Because the Blarney stone is to we Irish what Tel Aviv is to we Jews!" It is in this spirit of the universality and brotherhood of man that I am with you tonight. I'm also particularly happy to be back in Illinois--- a State which loves the Republicans so much that last November it overwhelwingly declined to burden us with the nagging problems of public office! Indeed, the problems of the Illinois Republicans reminds me of the famous Indian yogi's formula for lying on a bed of nails-----"It only hurts when you laugh!" Coming directly from Washington, I'm sure you would like a report on government under the Johnson administration. If any of you doubt that there have been some changes in Washington, I LD suggest you notice that printed across the top of the new Internal Revenue LIBRARY forms are the words, "The Eyes of Texas Are Upon You." «more» Israel-Chicago However, I can report it's not true that Lyndon is planning to change the name of the Nation's Capitol to "Austin-Kast." I am delighted to be with you for reasons other than I discussed earlier. First, because of the most worthwhile cause which this dinner supports. Very shortly the State of Israel will celebrate its seventeenth anniversary. In that brief period in the pages of history, a courageous and dedicated people have almost miraculously transformed a largely arid and undeveloped land into a modern industrial nation. As you well know, this tremendous progress has been accomplished under the most adverse circumstances. I commend those who in the face of such adversity have accomplished so much in so little time. Since the Israel Bond Organisation was formed in 1951, Israel's agricultural production has increased nearly six times, industrial production has gone up five times, and exports have risen nine times. More than 11 million subscribers to Israel bonds should be Justly proud of their contribution to this significant growth. -more- Israel Speech, Chicago -5- With your aid, Israel has overcome serious economic, social and political problems. It has taken in many thousands of homeless refugees, and given them meaningful and productive lives. It has even extended the hand of friendship, in the form of technical assistance, to nations which are less fortunate. On the African continent and in some parts of Latin America, Israeli teachers, irrigation experts, medical specialists and engineers are helping others to cross the barrier from "have-nots" to "haves." But the problems of Israel are not all in the past. While half of the nation is now fully developed, there is still another half that is in a primitive state, relatively speaking. These desert and waste areas must be irrigated, populated and made economically viable. There is still the need to absorb an expected 500,000 additional settlers by 1970. There is still the absolute necessity to go forward vigorously with Israel's present five-year plan for industrislization. Howevers with support such as yours, I have no doubt that the free and democratic State of Isreel is well on its way to complete self-reliance and stability. -more- FORD is LIBRARY Israel Speech, Chicago Another reason for being pleased to be with you is more complicated and subtle. It is because your participation in this cause represents an outstanding example of one of the strengths of the American system. You have made a considerable commitment of time, effort, resources and emotion to help others with whom you feel spiritual ties. Too often, I believe, we stress the semeness, the homogeneity, of American life, while ignoring the healBhy differences and variations that give such richness to the American fabric. The texture of our Nation, which has contributed to its unparallelled greatness, comes from many ethnic, religious and nationality strains. America, as we know it,and love it, is like A good soup. Its full flavor comes from the blending of many ingredients. Yet from many quarters we hear a great deal of talk about assimilation- especially from the younger generation. And, of course, it is necessary that we should be alike in some ways--- in our standard of justice, our concept of democratic government, our common ideal of liberty and freedom. GERALD -more- Israel, Chicago speech -i- But, we must also recognise that we can pay too high a price for sameness. We can make our soup bland. There are differences that we cannot afford to lose. I do not like to believe and do not concede that in this country we have Italian-Americans, Irish-Americans, Afro-Americans or Jewish-Americans because the hyphen implies that different groups should be differentially treated. This is wrong. On the other hand, it is necessary to understand that different groups have added imeasurably to American life because they are different. Out of their differences have grown ideas, a fuller cultural life, and a more interesting and stimulating America. Our national outlook is broader; our character stiffer. Rather than question in any way those who feel deep emotional ties to other countries---whether it be Israel or Ireland or Italy or Africa--- we should salute this as a manifestation of the genius of our Nation. This is part of what we call Americanism. It is one of the things that makes both Israel and America unique in the world. The beauty of Joseph's cost was that it was of many colors. -more- Israel Speech, Chicago -8- And 80 I salute you tonight--- salute you for your support of a worthwhile cause--- and salute you, my fellow Americans, because you have unselfishly helped pave the road to economic self-reliance for the people of Israel. With pride you can say you have played a major role in Israel's progress. With your head high, you know you have personally shared in an enterprise of historic significance for the survival of the Jewish people and of the spirit of human freedom and dignity to which it is dedicated. # # # # FORD & LIBRARY SERALD Israel Bond Speech become a politicial wear become states Chicago, April By. Rep. Gerald SAVL n be 1 11, Kupanet R. Ford 1965 - wondered I only what accepted my present 2nd. Potha m. palh would give be sten Today if 2 had "chaldren "ifym" if any TUNES We are here for several reasons this evening. One of them is to salute Sheriff Dick Ogilvie. I join you in applauding him for building a professional police force from scratch, handling the Dixmoor riots with courage, calmness and finesse, and providing an entrenched political machine with strong and healthy opposition. Dick's dedication is akin to the fine work of Don Rumsfeld, who represents the 13th District in the House of Representatives as a staunch and articulate spokesman for the people back home in Illinois. In all modesty, I would like to say that I am uniquely qualified to be your speaker this evening. After all, we are here in tribute to a valiant little country which is completely surrounded by a numerically larger and hostile enemy. As Republican Leader of the House-where there are 140 Republicans and 294 Democrats--- I, too, am part of a valiant little FORD i LIBRARY GERALD tribe completely surrounded by a numerically larger and hostile enemy. -more® Israel Speech-Chicago -2- So I stand before you as something of an authority on the plight of the oppressed minorities. May I add a postscript----- I fervently hope that we in the minority party of this great Nation of ours exhibit the same dauntless courage, matchless ingenuity, and rugged integrity as did those stout-hearted pioneers of the State of Israel for the past 17 years or more. Israel and Ford well know the problems of dealing with those goyem! I might also add that Israel and the Republican Party have something else in common. Some people think that Senator Dirksen and David Ben Gurion use the same hair stylist! This dinner reminds me of President Kennedy's classic remark to a Democratic fund-raising function when he said "I am touched to be here, but not as much as you have been!" Being here recalls the story of Theodore McKeldin, the Republican Mayor of Baltimore, who is always popular at Israeli events. -more- GERALD Israel Speech-Chicago Several years ago, McKeldin took a trip to Israel with his f riend Judge Simon Sobeloff, and on the way home their plane made a stop at Shannon, Ireland. McKeldin said to Sobeloff: "We have to get out and kiss the Blarney stone.' When Sobeloff asked why, McKeldin answered: "Because the Blarney stone is to we Irish what Tel Aviv is to we Jews!" It is in this spirit of the universality and brotherhood of man that I am with you tonight. I'm also particularly happy to be back in Illinois a State which loves the Republicans so much that last November it overwhelmingly declined to burden us with the nagging problems of public office! Indeed, the problems of the Illinois Republicans reminds me of the famous Indian yogi's formula for lying on a bed of nails It only hurts when you laugh!" Coming directly from ashington, I'm sure you would like a report on government under the Johnson administration. If any of you doubt that there have been some changes in Washington, I suggest you notice that printed across the top of the new Internal Revenue forms are the words, "The Eyes of Texas Are Upon You." -more- Israel-Chicago -4- However, I can report it's not true that Lyndon is planning to change the name of the Nation's Capitol to "Austin-East." I am delighted to be with you for reasons other than I discussed earlier. First, because of the most worthwhile cause which this dinner supports. Very shortly the State of Israel will celebrate its seventeenth anniversary. In that brief period in the pages of history, a courageous and dedicated people have almost miraculously transformed a largely arid and undeveloped land into a modern industrial nation. As you well know, this tremendous progress has been accomplished under the most adverse circumstances. I commend those who in the face of such adversity have accomplished so much in so little time. Since the Israel Bond Organization was formed in 1951, Israel's agricultural production has increased nearly six times, industrial production has gone up five times, and exports have risen nine times. More than 11/2 million subscribers to Israel bonds should be Justly proud of their contribution to this significant growth. GERALD, LIBRARY -more- Israel Speech, Chicago -5- With your aid, Israel has overcome serious economic, social and political problems. It has taken in many thousands of homeless refugees, and given them meaningful and productive lives. It has even extended the hand of friendship, in the form of technical assistance, to nations which are less fortunate. On the African continent and in some parts of Latin America, Israeli teachers, irrigation experts, medical specialists and engineers are helping others to cross the barrier from "have-nots" to "haves." But the problems of Israel are not all in the past. While half of the nation is now fully developed, there is still another half that is in a primitive state, relatively speaking. These desert and waste areas must be irrigated, populated and made economically viable. There is still the need to absorb an expected 500,000 additional settlers by 1970. There is still the absolute necessity to go forward vigorously with Israel's present five-year plan for industrialization, However, with support such as yours, I have no doubt that the free and democratic State of Israel is well on its way to complete self-reliance and stability. -more- FORD is LIBRARY 0ERALD Israel Speech, Chicago Another reason for being pleased to be with you is more complicated and subtle. It is because your participation in this cause represents an outstanding example of one of the strengths of the American system. You have made a considerable commitment of time, effort, resources and emotion to help others with whom you feel spiritual ties. Too often, I believe, we stress the sameness, the homogeneity, of American life, while ignoring the healthy differences and variations that give such richness to the American fabric. The texture of our Nation, which has contributed to its unparallelled greatness, comes from many ethnic, religious and nationality strains. America, as we know it and love it, is like a good soup. Its full flavor comes from the blending of many ingredients. Yet from many quarters we hear a great deal of talk about assimilation especially from the younger generation. And, of course, it is necessary that we should be alike in some ways in our standard of justice, our concept of democratic government, our common ideal of liberty and freedom. FORD & LIBRARY 0ERALD -more- Israel, Chicago speech -7- But, we must also recognize that we can pay too high a price for sameness. We can make our soup bland. There are differences that we cannot afford to lose. I do not like to believe and do not concede that in this country we have Italian-Americans, Irish-Americans, Afro-Americens or Jewish-Americans because the hyphen implies that different groups should be treatel. ment. This is wrong. On the other hand, it is necessary to understand that different groups have added immeasurably to American life because they are different. Out of their differences have grown ideas, a fuller cultural life, and a more interesting and stimulating America. Our national outlook is broader; our character stiffer. Rather than question in any way those who feel deep emotional ties to other countries whether it be Israel or Ireland or Italy or Africa we should salute this as a manifestation of the genius of our Nation. This is part of what we call Americanism. It is one of the things that makes both Israel and America unique in the world. The beauty of Joseph's coat was it was of many colors. GERALD LIBRARY -more- Israel Speech, Chicago -8- And so I salute you tonight- salute you for your support of a worthwhile cause and salute you, my fellow Americans, because you have unselfishly helped pave the road to economic self-reliance for the people of Israel. With pride you can say you have played a major role in Israel's progress. With your head high, you know you have personally shared in an enterprise of historic significance for the survival of the Jewish people and of the spirit of human freedom and dignity to which it is dedicated. # # # # FORD & LIBRARY 0ERALD Israel Bond Speech Chicago, April 11, 1965 By Rep. Gerald R. Ford We are here for several reason this evening. One of them is to salute shoritt Dick Ogilvie. I join you in applauding g him for building a professional police force from scratch, handling the Dixmoor riots with courage, calmness and finesse and providing an entrenched political machine with strong and healthy opposition. Dick's dedication is akin to the fine work of Don Rumsfeld, who represents the 13th District in the House of Representatives as a staunch and articulate spokesman for people back home in Illinois. In all modesty, I would like to say that I am uniquely qualified to be your speaker this evening. After all, we are here in tribute to a valiant little country which is completely surrounded by a numerically = larger and hostile enemy. As Republican Leader of the House where there are 140 Republicans and 294 Democrats---I, too, FORD is LIBRARY GERALD am part of a valiant little tribe completely surrounded by a numerically larger and hostile enemy! -more- Israel--Chicago -2- So stand before you as something of an authority on the plight of the oppressed minorities! May I add a postscript---I fervently hope that we in the minority party in this great Nation of ours exhibit the same dauntless courage, did matchless ingenuity, and rugged integrity as those stout-hearted pioneers of the State of Israel for the past 17 years or more. Israel and Ford well know the problems of dealing with those goyem! I might also add that Israel and the Republican Party have something else in common. Some people think that Senator Dirksen and David Ben Gurion use the same hair stylist! This dinner reminds me of President Aennedy's classic remark to a Democratic fund-raising function when he said "I am touched to be here, but not as much as you have been!" Being here recalls the story of Theodore McKeldin, the Republican Mayor of Baltimore who is always popular at Israeli events. GERALD more- Israel-Chicago Several years ago McKeldin took a trip to Israel with his friend Judge Simon Sobeloff, and on the way home their plane made a stop at Shannon, Ireland. McKeldin said to Sobeloff: "We have to get out and kiss the Blarney stone." When Sobeloff asked why, McKeldin replied, "Because the Blarney stone is to we Irish what Tel Aviv is to we Jews!" It is in this spirit of the universality and brotherhood of man that I am with you tonight. I'm also particularly happy to be back in Illinois a State which loves the Republicans so much that last November it overwhelmingly declined to burden us with the nagging problems of public office! Indeed the problems of the!llinois republicans reminds me of the famous Indian yogi's formula for lying on a bed of nails "It only hurts when you laugh!" Coming directly from ashington, I'm sure you would like a report on government under the Johnson administration. If any of you doubt that there have been some changes in FORD & LIBRARY GERALD Washington, I suggest you notice that printed across the top of the new Internal Revenue forms are the words, "The Eyes of Texas are upon you." more Israel-Chicago -4- However, I can report it's not true that Lyndon is planning to change the name of the Nation's Capitol to "Austin-East." * I am delighted to be with you for reasons other than I discussed earlier. First, because of the most worthwhile cause which this dinner supports. Very shortly the State of Israel will celebrate its seventeenth anniversæry. In that brief period in the pages of history a courageous and dedicated people have almost miraculously transformed a largely arid and undeveloped land into a modern industrial nation. As you well know, this tremendous progress has been accomplished under the most adverse circumstances. I commend those who in the face of such adversity have accomplished so much in so little time. Since the Israel Bond Organization was formed in 1951, Israel's agricultural production has increased nearly six times, industrial production have gone up five times, and exports have risen nine times. More than 1½ million subscribers to Israel Bonds should be justly proud of their contribution to this significant growth. -more- Israel-Chicago With your aid, Israel has overcome serious economic, social and political problems. It has taken in many thousands of homeless refugess, and given them meaningful and productive lives. It has even extended the hand of friendship, in the form of technical assistance, to nations which are less fortunate. On the African continent and in some parts of Latin America, Israeli teachers, irrigation experts, medical specialists and engineers are helping others to cross the barrier from "have-nots" to "haves." But the problems of Israel are not all in the past. While half of the nation is now fully developed, there is still another half that is speaking in a primitive state. These desert and waste areas must be irrigated, populated and made economically viable. There is still the need to absorb an expected 500,000 additional S ettlers by 1970. There is still the absolute necessity to go forward regormaly with israel's present five-year plan for a industrialization. However, with support such as yours, I have no doubt that the free and GERALD 817 R. FORD democratic State of Israel is well on its way to complete self-reliance and stability. -more- Israel-Chicago Another reason for being pleased to be with you is more complicated and subtle. It is because your participation in this cause represents an outstanding example of one of the strengths of the American system. You have made a considerable commitment of time, effort, resources and emotion to help others with whom you feel spiritual ties. Too often, I believe, we stress the sameness, the homogeneity, of American life, while ignoring the healthy differences and variations that give such richness to the American fabric. The texture of our Nation, which has contributed to its unparalled greatness, comes from many ethmic, religious and nationality strains. america, us we know of love X is like a good soup. Its full flavor comes from the blending of many ingredients. Iet we hear a great deal of talk about assimilation- especially from from many quarters the younger generation. And, of course, it is necessary that we should be alike in some ways in our standard of justice, our concept of democratic government, our common ideal of liberty and freedom. FORD is LIBRARY 07V830 -more- Isreel-Chicago -7- But, we must also recognize that we can pay too high a price our for sameness. We can make soup bland. There are differences that we cannot afford to lose. & do not concede I do not like to believe that in this country we have Italian-Americans, reah-Americans, Afro-Americans, English ns or Jewish-Americans because the hyphen implies that different groups should be differentially treated. This is wrong. On the other hand, it is necessary to understand that different groups have added immensurably to American life because they are different. Out of their differences have grown ideas, a fuller cultural life, and a more interesting and stimulating America. Our national outlook is brader, our character staffer Rather than question in any way those who feel deep emotional ties to other countries whether it be Israel or Ireland or Poland or England or Africa we should salute this as a manifestation of the genius of our Nation. This is part of what we call Americanism. It is one of the things that makes both Israel and America - unique in FORD & LIBRARY GERALD the world. The beauty of Joseph's coat was that it was of many colors. -more- Israel-Chicago -8- And so I salute you tonight----- salute you for your support of a worthwhile cause---and salute you, my fellow Americans, because you have helped pave the road to e conomic self-reliance for the people of Israel. With pride you can say you have played a major role in Israel's progress. With your head high, you know you have personally shared in an enterprise of historic significance for the survival of the Jewish people and of the spirit of human freedom and dignity to which it is dedicated. # # # GERALD FORD LIBRARY Draft #1 4/6/65 S. Hess Israel Bond Speech, Chicago, April 11, 1965 Gerald R. Ford In all modesty, Mr. Chairman, I would like to say that I am uniquely qualified to be your speaker this evening. After all, we are here to honor a valiant little country which is completely surrounded by a numerically larger and hostile enemy. Well, as the Republican leader in the House of Representatives - where there are 140 Republicans and 294 Democrats - I, too, am part of a valiant little tribe completely surrounded by a numerically larger and hostile enemy! So I stand before you as something of an authority on the plight of oppressed minorities! Israel and Ford well know the problems of dealing with those makesure you it goyem! (Note: Goyem is Yiddish for non-Jews or outsiders. Throw- withing 4hr ing in a Yiddish word might win acceptance at the outset.) I might also add that Israel and the Republican Party have will something else in common. Some people think that Senator Dirksen and David Ben Gurion use the same hair stylist! & LIBRAR This dinner reminds me of President Kennedy's classic remark to a Democratic fund-raising function: "I am touched to be here, but not as much as you have been!" Being here recalls a story of Theodore McKeldin, the Republican Mayor of Baltimore who is always popular at Israeli events. Several years ago McKeldin took a trip to Israel with his friend Judge Simon Sobeloff, and on the way home their plane made a stop at Shannon, Ireland. McKeldin said to Sobeloff, "We have to get out and kiss the Blarney stone." When Sobeloff asked why, McKeldin-replied, "Because the Blarney stone is to we Irish what Tel Aviv is to we Jews!" It is in this spirit of the universality and brotherhood of man that I am with you tonight. But I should also note - as a Michigan Congressman - that I've Comit IAgree Agree never heard of any Arab voters in Grand Rapids! I'm also particularly happy to be back in Illinois - a State which loves the Republicans so much that last November it overwhelmingly declined to burden us with the nagging problems of public office! Of course not all Republicans have given up on Illinois - That over worked omit, Dick Nixon tells me he's still waiting for a recount in Cook County! FORD & LIBRARY 076839 3 Indeed the problems of the Illinois Republicans reminds me of the famous Indian yogi's formula for lying on a bed of nails: "It only hurts when you laugh!" Coming directly from Washington I'm sure you would like a report on government under the Johnson administration. As you know, it is now fashionable on the banks of the onet Potomac to have an avian appendage on your name, such as Lady-Bird, Lynda-Bird, and Luci-Bird. One cynic has even said that at last we know what Washington is strictly for. If any of you doubt that there have been some changes in Washington, I suggest you notice that printed across the top of the new Internal Revenue forms are the words, "The Eyes of Texas are Upon You." However, I can report it's not true that Lyndon is planning to change the name of the Nation's Capital to "Austin-East." Of course Mr. Johnson is not the only prominent figure in Washington. There's also Vice President Humphrey - - it's just that onet nobody seems to have seen him lately! Perhaps after the next election the President can get a job as "Lyndon the Magnificent and his Famous FORD & LIBRARY OERALD 4 Vanishing Hubert Act!" (Barry Goldwater also has an amazing act - he makes Republicans disappear.) I am delighted to be with you for two reasons. must First, because of the worthwhile cause which this dinner supports. Very shortly the State of Israel will celebrate its seventeenth in the pages ? history anniversary. In that brief period a courageous and dedicated people have almost miraculously transformed a largely arid and undeveloped land into a modern industrial nation. as you well know This tremenlous propers has been accomphil hyder have accomplical The most adverse As much circumstances in so little time. 2 commend those who in the face of such advert Since the Israel Bond Organization was formed in 1951, Israel's agricultural production has increased nearly six times, industrial production has gone up five times, and exports have risen nine times. The more than 1,500,000 subscribers to Israel Bonds should be justly proud of their contribution to this significant growth. With your aid, Israel has overcome serious economic, social and political problems. It has taken in many hundreds of thousands of homeless refugees, and given them meaningful and productive lives. It has even extended the hand of friendship, in the form of technical BERALD FORD LIBRARY 5 assistance, to nations which are less fortunate. On the African continent and in some parts of Latin America, Israeli teachers, irri- gation experts, medical specialists and engineers are helping others to cross the barrier from "have-nots" to "haves." But the problems of Israel are not all in the past. While half of the nation is now fully developed, there is still another half that is in a primitive state. These desert and waste areas must be irrigated, populated and made economically viable. There is still the need to absorb an expected 500,000 additional settlers by 1970. There is still the necessity to go forward with Israel's present five-year plan for industrialization. However, with support such as yours, I have no doubt that the free and democratic State of Israel is well on its way to complete self-reliance and stability. * * * * * My second reason for being pleased to be with you is more complicated and subtle. It is because your participation in this cause represents an outstanding example of one of the strengths of the American system. FORD LIBRARY 438 6 You have made a considerable commitment of time, effort, resources and emotion to help others with whom you feel spiritual ties. Too often, I believe, we stress the sameness, the homogeneity, of American life, while ignoring the healthy differences and variations that give such richness to the American fabric. The texture of our Nation, which has contributed to its unparalleled greatness, comes from many ethnic, religious and nationality strains. It is like a good soup. Its full flavor cames from the blending of many ingredients. Yet we hear a great deal of talk about assimilation - especially from the younger generation. And, of course, it is necessary that we should be alike in some ways - in our standard of justice, our concept of democratic government, our common ideal of liberty and freedom. But we must also recognize that we can pay too high a price for sameness. We can make the soup bland. There are differences that we cannot afford to lose. English Answer Afro Americans? I do not like to believe that in this country we have Italian- afro americans, English - Americans fr Americans or Irish-Americans or Jewish-Americans because the hyphen implies that different groups should be differentially treated. And GERAED this is wrong. 7 On the other hand, it is necessary to understand that different groups have added to American life because they are different. Out of their differences have grown new ideas, a fuller cultural life, and a more interesting and stimulating America. all paine all question in any may deep Rather than Hold suspect those who feel emotional ties to other numbu countries, - whether it be Israel or Ireland or Poland - we should salute this as a manifestation of the genius of our Nation. This is not un-American this is part of what we call Americanism. It is one of both Isval of america the things that makes - unique in the world. The beauty of Joseph's Are we of, coat was that it was of many colors. to isn s sllow And so I salute you tonight - salute you for your support of a - Jour the worthwhile cause - and salute you, my fellow Americans, because you have helped to make our country a more vital place in which to live. 30 Rewsen 5 have helped have the ml to sconomic self relearch See st for the people of with pride Isralls you can my shard your in an interprise of hestine symetrance for with you heal high you know you have played a major mle in have progress personally & FORD & LIBRARY GERALD 7 human freddom & Requiry to which dedicated The survial the Jank people & of it the is opint Speech by Rep. Gerald R. Ford (R-Mich) Israel Bonds Dinner, Chicago, Ill., April 11, 1965 FOR RELEASE UPON DELIVERY ARPIL 11, 1965 Very shortly the State of Israel will celebrate its seventeenth anniversary. In that brief period in the pages of history, a courageous and dedicated people have almost miraculously transformed a largely arid and undeveloped land into a modern industrial nation. As you well know, this tremendous progress has been accomplished under the most adverse circumstances. I commend those who in the face of such adversity have accomplished so much in so little time. Since the Israel Bond Organization was formed in 1951, Israel's agricultural production has increased nearly six times, industrial production has gone up five times, and exports have risen nine times. More than 1½ million subscribers to bonds should be justly proud of their contribution to this significant growth. With your aid, Israel has overcome serious economic, social and political problems. It has taken in many thousands of homeless refugees, and given them more meaningful and productive lives. It has even extended the hand of friendship, in the form of technical assistance, to nations which are less fortunate. On the African continent and in some parts of Latin America, Isreeli teachers, irrigation experts, medical specialists and engineers are helping others to cross the barrier from "have-nots" to "haves" But the problems of Israel are not all in the past, While half of the nation is now fully developed, there is still another half that is in a primitive state, relatively speaking. These desert and waste areas must be irrigated, populated and made economically viable. There is still the need to absorb an expected 500,000 additional settlers by 1970. There is still the absolute necessity to go forward vigorously with Israel's present five-year plan for industrialization. However, with support such as yours, I have no doubt that the free and the democratic State of Israel is well on its way to complete self-reliance and stability. One of the reasons for being pleased to be with you is more complicated and subtle. It is because your participation in this cause represents an outstanding example of one of the strengths of the American system. You have made a considerable commitment of time, effort, resources and emotion to help others with whom you feel spiritual ties. - more - Speech by Rep. Gerald R. Ford Chicago, April 11, 1965 -2- Too often, I believe, we stress the sameness, the homogeneity, of American life while ignoring the healthy differences and variations that give such richness to the American fabric. The texture of our Nation, which has contributed to its unparalleled greatness, comes from many ethnic, religious and nationality strains. America, as we know it and love it, is like a good soup. Its full flavor comes from the blending of many ingredients. Yet from many Quarters we hear a great deal of talk about assimilation especially from the younger generation. And, of course, it is necessary that we should be alike in some ways in our standard of justice, our concept of democration 1c government, our common ideal of liberty and freedom. But, we must also recognize that we can pay too high a price for sameness, We can make our soup bland. There are differences that we cannot afford to lose. I do not like to believe and do not concede that in this country we have Italian-Americans, Irish-Americans, Afro-Americans or Jewish-Americans, because the hyphen implies that different groups should be differentially treated. This is wrong. On the other hand, it is necessary to understand that different groups have added immeasurably to American life because they are different. Out of their differences have grown ideas, a fuller cultural life, and a more interesting and stimulating America. Our national outlook is broader; our character stiffer. Rather than question in any way those who feel deep emotional ties to other countries whether it be Israel or Ireland or Italy or Africa we should salute this as a manifestation of the genius of our Nation. This is part of what we call Americanism. It is one of the things that makes both Israel and America unique in the world. The beauty of Joseph's coat was that it was of many colors. And so I salute you salute you for your support of a worthwhile cause and salute you, my fellow Americans, because you have unselfishly helped pave the road to economic self-reliance for the people of Israel. With pride you can say you have played a major role in Israel's progress. With your head high, you know you have personally shared in an enterprise of historic significance for the survival of the Jewish people and of the spirit of human freedom and dignity to which it is dedicated. ###### ###### ###### Speech by Rep. Gerald R. Ford (R-Mich) Israel Bonds Dinner, Chicago, Ill,, April 11, 1965 FOR RELEASE UPON DELIVERY ARPIL 11, 1965 Very shortly the State of Israel will celebrate its seventeenth anniversary. In that brief period in the pages of history, a courageous and dedicated people have almost miraculously transformed a largely arid and undeveloped land into a modern industrial nation. As you well know, this tremendous progress has been accomplished under the most adverse circumstances. I commend those who in the face of such adversity have accomplished so much in so little time. Since the Israel Bond Organization was formed in 1951, Israel's agricultural production has increased nearly six times, industrial production has gone up five times, and exports have risen nine times. More than 12 million subscribers to Israel bonds should be justly proud of their contribution to this significant growth. With your aid, Israel has overcome serious economic, social and political problems. It has taken in many thousands of homeless refugees, and given them more meaningful and productive lives. It has even extended the hand of friendship, in the form of technical assistance, to nations which are less fortunate, On the African continent and in some parts of Latin America, Israeli teachers, irrigation experts, medical specialists and engineers are helping others to cross the barrier from "have-nots" to "haves." But the problems of Israel are not all in the past. While half of the nation is now fully developed, there is still another half that is in a primitive state, relatively speaking. These desert and waste areas must be irrigated, populated and made economically viable. There is still the need to absorb an expected 500,000 additional settlers by 1970. There is still the absolute necessity to go forward vigorously with Israel's present five-year plan for industrialization, However, with support such as yours, I have no doubt that the free and the democratic State of Israel is well on its way to complete self-reliance and stability. One of the reasons for being pleased to be with you is more complicated and subtle. It is because your participation in this cause represents an outstanding example of one of the strengths of the American system. You have made a considerable commitment of time, effort, resources and emotion to help others with whom you feel spiritual ties. - more - Speech by Rep. Gerald R. Ford Chicago, April 11, 1965 -2- Too often, I believe, we stress the sameness, the homogeneity, of American life while ignoring the healthy differences and variations that give such richness to the American fabric. The texture of our Nation, which has contributed to its unparalleled greatness, comes from many ethnic, religious and nationality strains. America, as we know it and love it, is like a good soup. Its full flavor comes from the blending of many ingredients. Yet from many quarters we hear a great deal of talk about assimilation especially from the younger generation. And, of course, it is necessary that we should be alike in some ways in our standard of justice, our concept of democrat- 1c government, our common ideal of liberty and freedom. But, we must also recognize that we can pay too high a price for sameness, We can make our soup bland. There are differences that we cannot afford to lose. I do not like to believe and do not concede that in this country we have Italian-Americans, Irish-Americans, Afro-Americans or Jewish-Americans, because the hyphen implies that different groups should be differentially treated. This is wrong. On the other hand, it is necessary to understand that different groups have added immeasurably to American life because they are different. Out of their differences have grown ideas, a fuller cultural life, and a more interesting and stimulating America. Our national outlook is broader; our character stiffer. Rather than question in any way those who feel deep emotional ties to other countries whether it be Israel or Ireland or Italy or Africa we should salute this as a manifestation of the genius of our Nation. This is part of what we call Americanism. It is one of the things that makes both Israel and America unique in the world. The beauty of Joseph's coat was that it was of many colors. And so I salute you salute you for your support of a worthwhile cause--and salute you, my fellow Americans, because you have unselfishly helped pave the road to economic self-reliance for the people of Israel. With pride you can say you have played a major role in Israel's progress. With your head high, you know you have personally shared in an enterprise of historic significance for the survival of the Jewish people and of the spirit of human freedom and dignity to which it is dedicated. ###### ###### ######