Richard Wexler z"l

It is with great sadness that we inform you that our dear friend Richard L. Wexler, former JUF/JF Board member, has passed away. 

Richard served on the board from 1979-1990, 1991-2005, and 2006-2012.  He was JUF Board Chair from 1985-1987 and served in many leadership roles in the organization, including Chair of OPAC, JCRC, Missions, and various JUF divisions and events.  He was the 2001 recipient of our community’s highest honor, The Julius Rosenwald Memorial Award.  He also received the 1978 Davis, Gidwitz & Glasser Young Leadership Award.  Richard and his wife Roberta were Silver Circle donors to the JUF Annual Campaign. 

Outside of JUF, Richard was a major national leader who served as Chairman of the United Jewish Appeal, National UJA Campaign Chair, Chairman of United Israel Appeal, National Operation Exodus Chairman, and Chairman of the National Conference on Soviet Jewry.  In addition to lengthy board service on these national organizations, he also served in key capacities on the Board of Directors of JFNA, JDC, The Jewish Agency, HIAS, JESNA,, the National Jewish Community Relations Council, and The Great Books Foundation.

The graveside funeral will take place this Friday, October 22 at 10 am at Shalom Memorial Park, 1700 W. Rand Rd., Arlington Heights.  Shiva information to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to JUF.

May the memory of Richard Wexler always be a blessing.

https://chicagojewishfunerals.com/funeral-detail-page/?case=D6B3327A-40CA-4C8A-B188-644D17D33259

A FEW OF OUR FAVORITES

1. President Biden's obstinate endorsement of his administration's pathetic, rushed initiation of the American abandonment of Afghanistan inspired, as one would have expected, an outpouring of hate on the internet among the usual suspects.

In short order, just one of my favorite correspondents had dropped columns of ascending offense. The authors? Larry Kudlow (still advocating for dangerous treatments of COVID, as well); Mike Pence arguing that Biden breached the Trump "agreement" with the Taliban; and Caroline Glick, the latter the most egregious building her hateful diatribe this time on several false premises the most prominent that the President needed to be dragged from vacation (he was at Camp David) to face the Afghan crisis. 

2. A recent headline in Haaretz  advised that the Chief Rabbi (this time Sephardi — Rabbi Yitzchak Yousuf) has opined that allowing women to take supervisory roles in Israel’s corrupt kashrut certification process will lead to sexual immorality. And, how does he know this? This kind of drivel spews forth with a vulgar frequency.

3. In the wake of Hurricane Ida, JFNA (for which FRD is but a vague concept -- so 1980's) broke out the old Mailbox but announced that this is a "dedicated Mailbox." Something new? Doubtful. Something impactful? Doubtful.

Rwexler

HANGING IN THERE

Pam Zaltsman has been a professional in and then leading the JFNA financial services operation. She has been the most loyal of professionals since she joined the United Jewish Appeal and UIA accounting staff in the 1990's. While her professional roles expanded over the decades, her loyalty did not. She always acted consistent with her professional responsibilities; loyal to a fault. She was an important support professional to Lee Twersky, the ultimate non-profit CFO. As Pam matriculated up the field of UJA's and then JFNA's organizational tree, Pam was careful to be always supportive of those in power. And, within JFNA she was a trusted resource.

So it came as a surprise to me to read of her "lateral move" from CFO to something called Senior Advisor to Israel and Overseas -- it's not clear from the turgid paragraph in the JFNA Release whether Pam has retired or continues in a reduced role or something else. But she will be "coordinating and supporting Federations in the fiscal operations involved in this important area of our work" whatever that means. 

Add another body to those who work under Becky Caspi. This time, Pam Zaltsman, whose brief job description sounds like one given a Chicago Alderman as a ghost payroller. (I can only speculate that as financial support for the communities' overseas work continues to crater to new lows annually, the I & O staff will soon make its allocation payments in packets of $100 bills. Give 'em something to do.) 

We wish the new CFO great success. I continue to hope that someday JFNA will undertake the forensic audit of the entire I & O operation that has been overdue for over a decade. 

The waste.

Rwexler

RABBI RICHARD HIRSCH, Z'L

The outpouring of praise, always insufficient, memorializing the passing of one of the great leaders of Reform, of progressive, of World Jewry -- Rabbi Richard Hirsch -- has been heart-warming. I cherished my friendship with Richard, with Dick, as one of the things of great value from my work within  the Jewish Agency and the United Jewish Appeal.

When I became UJA National Chair in 1996, I convened a meeting of the leaders of the main Diaspora religious movements -- at Chicago's Hyatt Regency. I asked them what UJA could do to enhance their work. Richard didn't hesitate: "We want help with our capital fund raising." 

And Rabbi Hirsch didn't wait, he embarked on a campaign to raise the tens of millions to build an International Educational Center for Progressive Judaism -- he and the World Union already envisioned the site, the grounds, the building and in the vortex created by his enthusiasm I was right there with Richard. In 1971, the specifics of the Center were laid out and, now, finally, a quarter-century later, the WUPJ was moving forward with UJA. Hirsch's enthusiasm moved all of us forward. You should visit the Center. It's a beautiful achievement.

Richard's enthusiasm for this work was part and parcel of his vision of modern Zionism -- an inclusive, embracing Zionism. Breakfasts and lunches with Dick, often with the wonderful Bella, z"l, were like attending an educational seminar. I was blessed. I engaged with their son, Ammiel, now the Rabbi of the Stephen Wise Free Synagogue. Over the years. I learned so much.

For a brilliant tribute to Rabbi Hirsch's life and legacy, read his friend, the brilliant journalist, Gil Troy's, tribute in: https://jewishjournal.com/commentary/339825/rabbi-dick-hirsch-a-liberal-and-zionist-hero/ My friendship with Richard was a constant joy. 

May his memory be for a blessing.

Rwexler

1500 RABBIS AGREE?

The Press Release from some organization titled The Coalition for Jewish Values landed in an email from a friend who often captures the bizarre and unlikely. This one was titled:

"1,500+ rabbis say ADL 'no longer competent' to identify, let alone combat, anti-semitism." 

Perhaps you share my sense that 1,500 + (don't forget the +) Rabbis couldn't agree on anything. But somehow Rabbi Pesach Lerner, the President, of this "Coalition" has mystical powers.

The Press Release continued that the Coalition "took renewed aim at the Anti-Defamation League." And, why: well the ADL annonced a partnership with Hillel International to do battle against the worst of anti-semitism on college campuses. And, why "renewed?" Is ADL or Hillel viewed as "competition?"

And, what was wrong with that emerging "coalition?" An ADL "spokesman" stated that "anti-Israel activism is not in and of itself is not anti-semitism" citing BDS support as requing investigation. While I disagree (and, perhaps 1,500+ do as well) I don't believe that this statement disqualifies the ADL as "incompetent."

If you go beyond the Release you will discover that The Coalition for Jewish Values must have a power of attorney from 1,500+ Rabbis because that same "number" supported the CFJV Resolution in support of Yeshiva U's opposition to an LGBTQ Club at that University.

Congratulations to Rabbi Lerner and his 1500+ of followers -- all Rabbis? Expect to hear more from them.

Rwexler

QUESTIONS

Recent correspondence and news has inspired a bunch of questions:

-- Of the 1000s of Jewish organizations, which one most closely mirrors Spirit Airlines?

-- Which Jewish organization should cease to exist? 

-- Which Jewish organization should change its name?

-- Does "Jewish Federation" continue to define your community umbrella organization? 

Your answers, please..... 

Rwexler

 

NOT TO BE CYNICAL

I can picture the balabatim sitting around their Zoom boxes and collectively breathing a sigh of relief: "we can safely cancel the GA again -- COVID, you know." Now I am admitting to my own cynicism and I'm certain this meeting never happened. Nonetheless, this was a GA that should not have happened even were COVID not the threat that it remains. 

Eric and Mark should have held the funeral, said Kaddish and given the General Assembly the burial it deserved after year-after-year of failure, announced annual registration of a fictitious 3,000, and a general attitude by federation lay leadership of .... meh. But, up until the announcement, unbelievably, the GA in DC again(!!) was going ahead -- I have a feeling that the pre-Registration wasn't going well.

Before COVID struck and overwhelmed, dominated in 2020, JFNA leadership you will recall committed to a comprehensive look at the annual conference. That is a promise, like so many, that remains unfulfilled. I have reached out to many past GA Chairs, to learn if they had been consulted -- not one (including yours truly). Surprised? I'd be surprised if they knew whom any of the Chairs were -- they can call me.

This might have been a useful exercise. But JFNA is busy with other things. 

Rwexler

A SCURRILOUS ATTACK

Zionist Organization of America President-for-Life, Morton Klein, could not be expected to hold back his vituperation for more than a week or two. So it was no surprise that he would issue a statement regardless of its inaccuracies; just surprising the lengths he would go on August 1 to attack Deborah Lipstadt, an American hero and a Jewish one.  Here is the Statement:

"The ZOA opposes the expected nomination of Emory University lecturer Deborah Lipstadt to be the U.S. Combating Antisemitism Envoy, because of her statements displaying partisan left wing bias. Lipstadt obscenely and falsely likened President Trump to Nazi murderers and propagandists; helped promote a video that wrongly did the same; promoted the Charlottesville Hoax (despite President Trump’s clear condemnation of neo-Nazis and white supremacists); and falsely called President Trump (the grandfather of Orthodox Jewish children) an “antisemitic enabler.” Lipstadt’s abuse of false Nazi and antisemitism charges against those with whom she disagrees politically should disqualify her from serving as the U.S. Combating Antisemitism Envoy.  

 

Lipstadt’s primary focus is antisemitism on the right (both real and imagined), at a time when the major threat is Islamist and far-left antisemitism. We are concerned that Lipstadt will ignore and/or give far too little attention to antisemitism from groups such as the Black Lives Matter organization, and leftist and Islamist BDS groups and Israel-bashing NGOs.

 

President Biden promised to heal and bring all Americans together when he assumed office. Nominating and confirming Lipstadt would increase partisan divides. The Combating Antisemitism Envoy is a sensitive position that requires someone non-partisan, who will honestly and strongly address all real forms of antisemitism, from the left wing to the right wing, and who will not make inaccurate charges of antisemitism to defame political adversaries. Lipstadt is a bad choice."

There was no "Charlottesville Hoax." Trump "decisively" proclaimed there were  "good prople on both sides" in Charlottesville. As American Jews we are fully capable of reaching our own conclusions about former President  Trump's statements providing comfort to Neo-Nazi anti-semites. It was shameful that Trump decided to support the Tiki-flamers who chanted their way through  Charlottesville: "They shall not replace us" as they marched on a Synagogue.

The position of Combating Antisemitism Ambassador is in excellent hands; the presidency of the ZOA, not so much.

Rwexler

QUESTIONS -- HAVE YOU ANSWERS?

 1.    An Anonymous Commentator, perspicacious to a fault, offered us some analysis and some questions:

"While I have no scientific data I do have observational data over about 40 years of involvement in the federation world. It appears to me that some of the same comments can be applied to dozens of the local federations. Doesn't this emphasis on re-cycling of leadership, not promoting from within, staying insular explain a good part of the reason that individual donors have declined by at least 2/3rds in the past 20+ years? Doesn't it also explain to some degree the reason that individual federations look outward for professional leadership rather than to cultivate upcoming professionals? Exactly what is the relationship today to YLC and the board of directors/board of trustees of JFNA? How are the local cabinet members being engaged in their local communities to assume leadership roles? Or are they? And what about the role of the GA? It seems to me that the LOJ biennial conference now plays a much greater role in developing leadership than the GA."

2.      So, my friends, isn't it time to do a true forensic audit of some of our favorite organizations. David Harris is retiring from his incredible decades of leadership  of the American Jewish Committee. Mort Klein must be nearing retirement at the ZOA, mustn't he? Does the United Israel Appeal even exist any longer? What does KH  -- as in Keren Ha'Yesod -- even do (and clearly one thing it doesn't do is raise money)? And, of course...JFNA. Over the decades we often repeated the mantra: "If ____didn't exist, we'd have to create it." Not any more.

3.   While certain institutional leadership speaks out against anti-semitism as if to really do so directly will offend someone, on Sunday July 25, Ron Lauder, in his role as President of the World Jewish Congress implored President Biden to exercise his moral strength and leadership. The question: why has Biden yet to do so?

I'm pretty exhausted. I'm taking a mental health day.  

Rwexler

 

 

 

BEN & JERRY'S

 JFNA's response to Ben & Jerry's announced boycott in support of BDS:

"Boycotts do not advance the peace process. Jewish Federations call on Ben & Jerry's and Unilever to reconsider this decision."

This courageous declaration took the form of a Tweet. OK, to its credit JFNA announced that it is working behind the scenes to assure that states with anti-BDS legislation enforce these laws and regulations against the ice cream company's idiotic position. And is all that we want a "reconsideration?"  And all that the constituency got....a Tweet? Who did JFNA fear at Unilever?

I have written my local groceries demanding that they discontinue the sale of Ben and Jerry's. I have written the conglomerate owner of Ben & Jerry's, Unilever, urging action to reverse this perverse stance. I urge you to do the same. (I  imagine there is someone in management at Unilever wondering "did we  get into this mess for ice cream?") As Gristedes owner observed: "They politicized  ice cream."

Jewish Federations have laid claim (or want to) that they/we are leading the battle against the scourge of rising anti-semitism. Great for them but, if true, then they/we must let our umbrella organization, JFNA,  and its leaders know that this...Tweet...was totally inadequate and unworthy.

Rwexler

A FOB suggested this message from Endowment for Middle East Truth as a counterpint to Ben & Jerry's assault on Israel and truth:

ACTION ALERT: How to Respond to Ben and Jerry’s and Unilever Endowment for Middle East Truth  Date: July 26, 2021  Contact: Sarah Stern  (202) 601-7422  Ben and Jerry’s, an ice cream company that prides itself on its “woke,” progressive politics announced last week that it intends on cancelling its distribution and sale in eastern Jerusalem and Judea and Samaria, or the West Bank.   This comes after 11 days of the terrorist group, Hamas, raining rockets down on Israeli cities and residential communities and Israel’s highly successful attempt to protect its civilian population, while attempting to avoid collateral damage within Hamas-controlled Gaza.   Hamas cynically places its military production facilities and its operational bases near civilian areas.  It should be made clear that an element of Hamas’ strategy has always been to use “human shields,” to intentionally maximize civilian deaths of their own population in order to demonize Israel with the claim of “disproportionality."  Israel has gone out of its way to avoid the loss of civilian life. In fact, even according to Mathius Schmale, the Director of UNRWA’s mission in Gaza (an organization not known for its profound love of Israel), Israel’s airstrikes were “very precise,” and they “didn’t hit, with some exceptions, civilian targets.” This was a statement for which he had to resign from his position and quickly get out of Gaza for fear of his life.  According to Article 51 of the United Nations Charter, every nation has the responsibility to protect its civilian population. We know that if a terrorist group rained rockets on the United States from Canada or Mexico, we would not hesitate to respond in a manner similar, if not more aggressive, as Israel did. Yet, according to the progressive agenda, what Israel did was considered “disproportionate."   This reeks of a duplicitous double standard used to judge Israel, which would never be used against any other nation. It is meant to demonize and delegitimize the state of Israel. This is what lies at the very core of anti-Semitism. Ben and Jerry’s is a wholly owned subsidiary of Unilever, who, despite the rather anodyne comments of CEO Alan Jope, both the parent company and subsidiary are open to legal action because of laws already on our books.  According to the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Office of Anti-Boycott compliance, within the Bureau of Industry Compliance, Part II of the Export Control Reform Act of 2018, as well as certain anti-boycott provisions set forth in part 760 of the Export Administration Regulations, “These authorities discourage, and in some circumstances, prohibit U.S. companies from taking certain actions in furtherance or support of a boycott maintained by a foreign country against a country friendly to the United States (unsanctioned foreign boycott).”  As they write on their own website, “The anti-boycott provisions of the EAR encourage, and in specific cases, require US persons to refuse to participate in unsanctioned foreign boycotts. They have the effect of preventing U.S. persons from advancing foreign policies of other nations that run counter to U.S. policy.”  It is vital that your representatives and senator understand that what Ben and Jerry’s is doing, and what its parent company, Unilever, is feebly trying to distance itself from, is a violation of  federal US Anti-Boycott Act.   Unfortunately, Palestinian Legal has made this into a First Amendment issue. This has nothing to do with freedom of speech or the ability to express one’s ideas. This has everything to do with the discriminatory boycott of a product to one designated place on the globe, the state of Israel.  There also have been 33 states that have signed their own anti-BDS laws. If your state is one of them, please call your Governor’s office, thank them for doing so, and politely inform them that now is the time to begin legal proceedings. If they have not, please call your Governor and politely insist that they sign state anti-BDS legislation. For a list of which states have signed the anti-BDS laws and your Governor’s phone number, please contact us at EMET at (202) 601-7422.  And on the federal level, it is time that every member of Congress understands that this is not a free speech issue, but a boycott of a product against one specific country. Please call your member of Congress at (202) 224-3121 and let them know that what Ben and Jerry’s and Unilever are attempting to do may be in violation of US law and that immediate action, including a thorough investigation of the origin’s of this boycott and any Palestinian influence and/or involvement in the policy, is called for to eradicate this mission of hate towards Israel and the Jewish people."

THE OFFER

 Last week I offered these pages to a Los Angeleno to discuss the community's growth over the past decade+.

No takers. Silence.

Rwexler

THE KOTEL ERUPTS...AGAIN

It's a curious paradox is it not that Ultra-Orthodox punks attacked Jews of other Movements who were observing Tisha B'Av at the "egalitarian space" set aside (far aside) for non-Orthodox worship at the Kotel while Muslim worshippers were physically challenging Israeli  police only a few hundr4ed yards away? Or maybe not paradoxical at all?

I remember decades ago when I was in Israel for a meeting (!) and  got a call from a Large City Exec asking me to meet with Rabbi Yisrael Meir Lau, then (and maybe now)  the Chief Rabbi of Israel and seek his intervention to put a stop to what were then the continuing assaults on Women of the Wall. It was an ugly time; you know, like now. I had attended a number of shivas in Jerusalem that week for victims of a series of terrorist bus bombings; Rabbi Lau was at most of them as well without regard for the Judaism practiced by the victims. This compassion did no stop Lau from publicly regarding Reform Jews as some form of treif.

I knew I was on a fool's errand. Yet, I also knew that there would be an opportunity to approach Lau -- I had been asked to be the MC at a  wonderful event: Chicago's great philanthropist, our friend Manny Steinfeld, z'l, was dedicating a research library at Ammunition Hill in memory of his brother who had died in the memorable battle there. Rabbi Lau would offering his blessing.

The day came and the dedication ceremony was beautiful and meaningful. At its end I reached out to Rabbi Lau and shook his hand, reintroducing myself. Still holding Rabbi Lau's hand, I expressed my purpose with respect. I still remember Lau almost levitating out of my grasp as he said, "this is not my jurisdiction." I replied that I was sure that the Interior Minister "...would listen to the Chief Rabbi." Rabbi Lau finally agreed to an intervention of sorts.

And, today, a quarter-century later, yeshiva bochers set upon Jewish worshipers in violent ways on a site set aside  for egaliarian prayer. THIS IS INTOLERABLE. To his great credit, the CEO of the Jewish Federation Metro West Federation, Dov Ben-Shimon, perfectly and publicly expressed his/our outrage. Kal ha'kavod.

Rabbi Lau, where are you?

Rwexler

AN OFFER

The most significant leader in Los Angeles has taken issue with you and with me. 

In a VmailHe has confronted me and rejected all statements in the recent Posts that refute LA's leaders' assertions that is is at the forefront of communal fundraising among all federations. Further, Los Angeles' leaders want you to know that in their opinion, the community made no Dues Deal with JFNA and paid all Dues owed just as, e.g., Chicago does.

Here's the offer I made (and reiterate here) directly to this LA leader: write a Post; I will publish it as you write it. Sounds fair, right?

Do we have a deal?

Rwexler

SO EASY TO FORGET

I am certain that some....most...of us remember that frigid day in  December 1987 when, in brilliant sunlight an estmated 250,000 of us came to the Capitol Mall, marched, sang, cried and rallied together for freedom for our mishpacha imprisoned by an Iron Curtain. What an event it was. It was unforgettable. We kvelled. It was a high point for our system; all of our communal institutions -- local, national, overseas -- coming together as one...inspired and inspiring. And building from there our Movement supported the Aliyah of over 1,000,000 and another 150,000 to the United States.

I am equally certain that few would choose to remember the total breakdown of our sclerotic system was reflected in 3,200 -- 3,200 is not a typo friends -- participants in that national "rally" against anti-semitism in D.C. last Sunday. This was abject failure. This was the NO FEAR Rally BTW; and "no fear" apparently applies to failure among other things. The sponsoring organizations included JFNA, ADL, B'nai B'rith International, American Jewish Committee, the ZOA and the Jewish Agency and the major religious Movements.  Individuals leading this effort included Elisha Wiesel and Meghan McCain. This roster and the Rally's further support for Israel apparently inflamed the folks at J-Street and left wing organizations which declined support. 

Look, this thing was poorly planned and executed...even worse. 3,200 Jews, friends, to protest the horrific outbreak of this apparently eternal disease. The commentator, Vincent Tobin, framed the question: after looking at the results Are Jews Rally United Against Anti-Semitism? Tobin's conclusion: don't be discouraged by the abysmal turnout. Sorry, does any reader believe that had this Rally been organized by communal professionals, those very numbers would have been exceeded by 1000's? In 1986, I watched as Federation leadership built an incredible achievement over 2 months; here, in 2021, I watched only failure-- well-intentioned failure.

We have reached the point where we are no longer even embarrassed by our failures; we are now without shame. A Terrorists' War on Israel, our "system" sends (did JFNA even send it??) $1,300,000 as a "rapid response" to hundreds of millions in needs across Israel. National agencies -- those which execute federations' programs -- are now living on fumes or worse. The JAFI and JDC have less support today for their core programs than at any time in their history. But...a Rally at our Capitol, no leadership, no planning ("just put it on the Calendar and surely 50,000 will show")...3,200. JFNA, as you may have read, is practically out of the FRD business (I wish I could forget that Mark Wilf's predecessor as Board Chair preached a message with almost evangelical fervor, that JFNA is not in the fund raising "business" but is something he called a "community organization" -- you know, convening, talking, talking and...talking.)

Meanwhile, those on the right ascribe failure to attack anti-semitisism to those on the "left." This means they are too busy themselves to support a "Rally." Priorities, anyone? Anyone?

If our organizations don't get back to basics with new-found enthusiasm they will be done; spending their time bragging about non-existent accomplishments and, like me, writing about the "good old days."

Rwexler

REALLY??

 One of you, clearly an Angeleno, wrote the following endorsement of the selection of Julie Platt as incoming JFNA National Campaign Chair as a Comment to my most recent Post:

"Best possible choice! Already a success leading national livesecure campaign to assist federations with their growing security needs. LA once out of the national picture now leads the way. Maybe a post about why how you think this dramatic change(sic) happened?"

Let's not get carried away. (For example, when the Chicago Jewish community led the way in programming for domestic security, I don't remember the cracking sound of arms breaking from patting ourselves on the back. But...that was then and this is...)

I recall when I was a young lay leader in Chicago, I would commute to work with my dear friend, the late Joel Shinsky, our federation's campaign director. Early on in each Campaign, I would read the federation weekly/monthly data from UJA and harass Joel: "LA data are showing huge annual campaign increases -- 25-30% -- and we're mired at 4%. What's our problem and what's their secret?" Joel,  dragging on his perpetual cigarette, would calmly reply: "Patience. We have no problem and their 'secret" is they are making these numbers up." 

And, yes, year after year, at campaign's-end, Chicago's numbers were up; LA's flat or down. Eventually, as the system did away with the UJA, so too did the weekly/monthly data disappear. Don't confuse us with the facts 

I take pride in the fact that I can claim friendship of a sort, albeit fleeting, with a succession of Los Angeles Federation professionals and professional leaders: Feinstein, Fishel, Sanderson, among them. I grew to understand the challenges they and their leadership faced, daily and annually, and the strengths it took to leading let alone succeeding under these circumstances.

When I served UJA and the  system in the mid-90's as National Campaign Chair, I convened a meeting with the heads of the religious streams to see how we might help them. With the leadership of the great Rabbi Richard Hirsch, who would become my dear friend, weembarked on a quiet, special campaign to raise funds for stream projects in Israel. I called on the best fund raiser I knew or know -- an Angeleno. The evening of the appointment, I received a call from the LA CEO: "Call of your guy, he's destroying our campaign (he wasn't); he's killing my biggest donors." (he wasn't) The Campaign was a success; I attended the groundbreaking ceremonies for mutiple facilities. LA donors made an impact; the community didn't directly participate.

When JFNA kicked off, Los Angeles engaged two of its lay leaders to serve on the Budget Committee. As I sat with them at meetings, these fellows told me that they were appointed to vote down the Budget -- and they dutifully cast no votes time and again. In addition, the community wasn't paying its Dues; further protests? Perhaps. After all, LA leaders pushed hard to reduce the overseas allocations and some of its leaders publicly derided the Jewish Agency.

I'll end this brief history when Richard Sandler became JFNA Chair after LA cut a deal on its JFNA Dues. A charming and very smart lawyer, a serious Jew, Richard was a person who strongly believed in some basic unsupportable and unsupported "truths" -- e.g., total, unquestioning support of the CEO. These beliefs made the job so simple. Richard's beliefs became JFNA Torah. Valid or not. Over the decades the LA Federation has yet to fulfill its promise. It continues, at a time of great and growing needs, to underperform as a fund raising body while...here is how one Commentator put it

"I enjoy reading your blog and seldom comment, but anon 11:15 inspired me to do so. LA leading the way?? Let’s be honest. I live up the road and know the real story. Federations used to, some still can claim, to be central to Jewish life in their respective cities. LA can claim some good work, but they are not central or a critical player. Federation was also a magnet for the leaders in philanthropy. LA can claim some good, caring people but far from the powerhouse influencers who should be around the table in that resource reach city. The components which comprise meaningful, influential Federations are absent in LA. LA leading the way? If that Federation is one to aspire, the JFNA needs to hire more consultants to teach what it means to be a community organization of reach, depth and quality. 

A prior post of yours spoke to lay and professional leaders and qualifications. Federation leaders should possess an eclectic range of skills and experiences. Those skills and experiences are nurtured over time. People gravitate to what they know. Jerry Silverman was a marketing retailer so you got “ish” and Tribefest. Richard Sandler, good guy and fabulous Jew, admitted that he knew very little about Federation when taking on a National role. And, it showed. The national system was rudderless. Jay Sanderson comes from Jewish media and promotions. So, you got what you asked for. And, now this powerhouse Federation will be led by another good individual with zero experience in the real work of Federation. It doesn’t do any good for LA, the JFNA system or the poor guy who is being thrown into the deep end of the pool."

 

Richard, you often speak of the good old days. The good old days were not as good as you claim. However, those days stood for something. Fluff was not a go to."

 Well said.

Rwexler 

 

COMMUNICATIONS -- JFNA STYLE

 JFNA, as anyone of you has read on these pages, has always been opaque -- frequently unnecessarily so. So the recent "investigation" detailed below will come as no surprise.

Like many of you I received an invitation to The Cabinet Activation:  Together Against Anti-Semitism a D.C. Fly-in on July 20. The invite I received was addressed to all Cabinet members and alums from Chicago JFNA Leaders Andy Hochberg and David Brown. David's signature interested me as it recited;

David Brown, Immediate Past JFNA National Campaign Chair

 HUH? Had I missed some formal announcement? After all, I was, once, in that position myself where we proudly announced my successor, Carole Solomon, not hidden it in the close to an irrelevant correspondence.

So, I asked around among those dwindling few whom I know to remain relevant at JFNA (and who still speak to me!!). After 4 friends who knew nothing ("was Brown Campaign Chair?" "When did he resign?"), I got the answer -- David has been succeeded by the indefatigable, irrepressible Julie Platt. A superb choice -- her L.A. leadership, GA leadership and her many roles locally (she just chaired the Los Angeles CEO Search), positioned her perfectly for this role.

Now, it will be up to Julie Platt to lead. And for others to allow her to.

Friends, if you received some formal announcement of Julie's succession, let me know. I love my mea culpas.

Rwexler

 

THE NEW CRITERIA FOR CONTINENTAL LEADERSHIP

It's pretty easy these days to identify the criteria for continental leadership. First let's review what used to be and then we'll take a look at what is.

In the halcyon days of yore. continental leadership arose from a group of leaders who had demonstrated an almost lifelong commitment of time, energy and, yes, dollars, to the organization. Some -- and I included myself among the fortunate -- mentored, fed into roles where we could exercise our leadership in demonstrable ways. At the incredible United Jewish Appeal, z'l, the men and women, lay and professional, felt a bond, a camaraderie,  growing out of a sense of mission, movement and real commitment. Those of us who demonstrated the mentality of team players moved on from Young Leadership Cabinets to Campaign Cabinet, from Women's Campaign to International Lion of Judah. For the best of these leaders, their roles were not about "what's next for me," but, rether, "what's next for the Jewish People." We were about finding leadership roles for the "next," not, "what's next for me?" And, to a point, UJA  thrived.

JFNA has been fortunate -- at times over the 2+ decades, a Mark Wilf, incredible philanthropist, great leader. passionate Zionist, from a great Federation emerges to take on leadership. In today's world Mark is a rare leader of grace, leading by example. 

In today's world, we observe, at least at JFNA, an oligarchy in its truest form -- a small group of people controlling the organization periodically "allowing" one or two new faces to enter while no one leaves -- practically ever. The seminal criterion for leadership today: who do you know? 

Then we observe a transparent public sycophancy that appears to be a requirement for moving up the leadership food chain. To paraphrase the directive for a brilliant Rodeo Drive shopping spree in Pretty Woman: "You're in the right organization, in the right City for the maximum amount of sucking up.' Yes, indeed.

So, leaders, good people all, recirculate through from position to position, careful not to offend, apparently never pausing to contemplate that new faces might do the job as well, or, perish the thought, better. Does anyone really believe, other than he/she holding the title, that someone other than ______ ___________ might do a worse job than he who currently serves -- in any capacity? Or that _____ _______ is the only person who could possibly serve as Chair of X? As some sport once screamed: "You've got to be kidding me."

So, you ask, what's the point? Yeah, what's the point in expanding the numbers of those in leadership? Well, for one, it broadens the base; more leaders equal more debate, and ultimately, a braoder consensus. Oligarchy's don't last -- except, apparently, in Jewish communal life.

More's the pity.

Rwexler

THERE THEY GO AGAIN

I received this Comment from a member  of the Los Angeles Jewish community and thought it worthy of  reflection and discussion.

"There they go again.

The Los Angeles Jewish Federation announced the selection of Rabbi Noah Farkas (Valley Beth Shalom, Encino, CA) as its new President and CEO: https://jewishla.org/announcing-our-new-president-ceo/

I don’t know Rabbi Farkas. He might be a wonderful person and a successful Synagogue and Community Rabbi. But, is he ready for the number one position of one of the largest Jewish Federations in the country?

David Suissa, the Publisher of the Los Angeles Jewish Journal, in his column about this appointment ( https://jewishjournal.com/commentary/columnist/editors-note/338279/as-new-leader-of-l-a-federation-rabbi-farkas-will-expand-his-leadership-horizon/), writes: “Since he will now be a leader of the whole community, he’ll have to wrestle with a new category of challenges: the intense political divisions within our community; the heated and polarized arguments over Israel; the balance between particularity (helping Jews) and universalism (helping the world); the many religious differences among denominations; the priorities in allocating limited funds and resources; the alarming rise in antisemitism; the fraying of Jewish identity among the new generation; and so on.”

Does Rabbi Farkas have the experience and ability to handle these issues?

What I do know is that there are many experienced and successful Jewish Communal professionals serving other large city and intermediate city Jewish Federations who have experience in dealing with these issues. Were any of these professionals looked at, and where was the JFNA in this process?

Another nail in the coffin of the Jewish Federation system and its hard-working community of professionals."

HELLO DARKNESS MY OLD FRIEND

Just remain focused on this number -- $1,300,000. That's all -- $1,300,000. That's it -- $1,300,000. 

Here is a Memo from JFNA's leaders:

 

"I am attaching a memo from Israel and Overseas Chair, David Butler and myself regarding the current situation in Israel.

 

Over the last 48 hours we received many questions about whether JFNA would open a mailbox to respond to this new crisis in Israel.  After talking with our key partners, JFNA’s Israel & Overseas professional team and committee recommended a package of $1.3M in immediate, additional needs.  These are described in the attached materials, and of course we are happy to discuss them with you further.  

 

We have not recommended a “fair share” distribution of these new costs, but rather offer them to you as a chance to engage your Federation networks in this important moment.  We are happy to discuss the needs or levels of giving with any Federation.   

 

We will keep you posted as the donations are received.  Our hope would be to fully subscribe this donation request as soon as possible to both meet the immediate needs on the ground and send an important message of solidarity and support.  If donations exceed the amount, we will inform you and hold them in the mailbox as future needs arise. 

 

We of course do not think this is the last list of needs that will be received related to this crisis.  We will approach this with great caution, knowing that a larger effort may be needed later. 

 

Thank you for your continued support and amazing work."

"Amazing work"? Really? I don't know about David Butler, but Mark Wilf knows far better as a brilliant campaign leader, as National Campaign Chair and as a mega-donor. But, really, presenting $1,300,000 as the base point for a campaign that will, must, be so much more to make an impact on "...the immediate needs on the ground" -- this isn't a campaign kick-off, it's far more like a Purim spiel.

We may not be masters of substance but hyperbole;well, that's a whole different matter: these from JFNA's leaders:

"~ First, we do not wait for a crisis to provide support for our brothers and sisters in Israel and around the globe.

 ~ Second, when Jews are in trouble anywhere in the world, we in the Jewish Federation system do not wait to be asked for help. Instead, we reach out and ask what is needed, and then we deliver that help."

"Deliver" -- what, exactly? $1,300,000??? 

My mentors always taught me to reach for the stars, to set our goals high and recognize that there is no shame in falling short; the shame is in setting the bar low at the outset -- exactly what JFNA has done in its response to Operation Guardian of the Walls First Special Allocation. Trust me, friends, there is nothing "special" about this allocation other than as a reflection of an organization that has lost the ability to even respond to another terrorists' war. Worse, JFNA has become an organization without aspiration, without the courage of the convictions it once had...in a land far, far away, at a time long since past.

And, today, we do almost nothing...and then we brag about doing nothing.

$1,300,000              $1,300,000            $1,300,000

Rwexler 

 

 

JUST QUESTIONS

Watching what is happening at a number of federations, I am reminded of one piece of offered advice that in most places was ignored -- lay leadership must be rotated or bad (or stupid or both) things take place.

An example: one of our system's oldest (in so many ways) and largest communities) has had some of the best and brightest CEOs in its long history. Yet, it has, over the past decade, hired some excellent CEO's. And, now, the community has just hired another. Each of these women and men was quite different from the other; at least two were outstanding leaders...and each ultimately led to the door escorted by the same "leader" who had (1) originally endorsed him/her with the same (almost exact) enthusiasm with which (2) that self-same "leader" bad-mouthed them in the hallways and chat rooms before he/she was hired  (or, inoneinstance, bad-mouthed to assure that leader wouldn't be hired).

One might have thought that the communal leadership would have seen through this person's "act" by now; and, rather than giving this person any responsibility whatsoever in any Search process going forward, would have  given her/him a faux gold watch and certicate of "thanks" but "no thanks."

But...no. Just read the annual embrace of a new CEO in that town -- greatest thing since challah -- and there were the same almost exact words of praise from the same manchig. 

So...wait 'til next year. Wash, rinse, repeat.

Rwexler

I'M BACK

Sorry for my absence. I will explain in an upcoming Post.

 It will surprise no one that nothing has really changed.

-- As I write this Israelis are voting once again and, as always, Bibi is expected to emerge through another stalemate as the one person who can form a coalition government. Makes you kindofwoner why so many Israelis are so cynical about voting. FIVE elections -- total democratic chaos.

-- The largest Federation is at it again. You may be invited:

    

"Virtual Mission to Japan

Part I: Wednesday, March 31, 2021 • 6:00 pm ET
Part II: Tuesday, April 27, 2021 • 6:00 pm ET 

Dear 

Our series of virtual missions continues with a two-part trip to Japan. Israeli tour guide Nir Turk, who has lived in Japan since 2011, will lead us with special guests to illuminate the past and present of this extraordinary country. As we prepare for an in-person KDS mission to Japan in March 2022, join us to whet your appetite and to more fully experience all the history, culture, and tradition the country has to offer."

I'm not making this up. Perhaps, this "Virtual Mission" will end with fundraising for UJA -- United Japanese Appeal.

Rwexler

HELP ME UNDERSTAND

 I need help in understanding what "cancel culture" means. I know the common definition as a form of "ostracism" in which someone or some organization is excised out of social or professional environments -- kind of a lech l'azazel directed at persons or organizations.

So, as far as definition goes, I think I've got it. But what about in application? For example, take the Zionist Organization of America (no, not in the Rodney Dangerfield "take my wife, please" way). When the ZOA was threatened with expulsion from the Boston Jewish Community Relations Council "driven by two left-wing groups" -- J Street and the New Israel Fund -- as described in an article in jns which may been written in ZOA's offices -- the contemplated action  was described a "[C]ancel culture hits Boston Jews." Yet, when ZOA itself attacked leaders of HIAS and HIAS itself, among other organizations and leaders, that's perfectly fine -- no "cancel culture" here.

So, do I have this right? If you or your organization is under scrutiny or attack, that's "cancel culture;" but if you are the one, or the organization, that is spewing out the attacks, that's not "cancel culture." Do I have this right? Does this make any sense at all?

If "cancel culture" is but a subjective phrase. absent objective standards, does it have any meaning at all? Look at it in context: "when I attack you...kosher,: when you go after me..."cancel culture."

OK....I think I've got it now. Thanks for listening!!

Rwexler

REAL...OR PURIM SPIEL?

Testing your Purim Spiel knowledge. Which of the following are real and which are no more than Purim Spiel?

1. The JEDI Inaugural Cohort– Jewish Federations’ JEDI (Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion) Initiative supports the Jewish communal ecosystem in ensuring that people of diverse backgrounds are celebrated and valued as equal members of our community regardless of their abilities, whom they love, faith-experience, or the color of their skin.  In addition to the JEDI meetings and conversations with professional and lay members of our communities over the past 6 months, JEDI is launching its inaugural Community Cohort. 

2. Jews are indigenous to this land. We are called Jews because we are from Judea. Arabs are not indigenous to this land. Most hail from Arabia and North Africa. There was never a Palestinian state here. This is the land where the first Jews Abraham and Sarah lived, King David was anointed and ruled, Jacob slept and dreamt, Joseph is buried, the Maccabees established their base, and Jewish kingdoms existed for hundreds of years.

3. We denounce the baseless accusations leveled at the government of Israel regarding the distribution of Covid-19 vaccines that have regrettably been given credence by media reports and even by a few members of Congress. Despite the Palestinian Authority, not Israel, being responsible for the healthcare of Palestinians under the terms of the 1993 Oslo Accords, and the fact that the Palestinian Authority has insisted that it would independently source its vaccine supply from Russia and the World Health Organization, the Israeli government has taken numerous steps to improve the health and wellbeing of Palestinians during this pandemic.

4. With our absolutely brilliant Abraham Accords, personally negotiated by me, among Israel, the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, we now have peace in the Mioddle East just as I predicted we would Some nattering nabobs of negativism will claim that I, with the assistance of Jared Kushner, bought this peace with a promise of arms and F-35 jets. That's not true and anyone who believes that is a liar.

5. It is deeply troubling that a Biden administration seems poised to ignore Israel’s life-or-death concerns about Iran and to instead precipitously re-enter the disastrous Iran deal, lift sanctions and exclude Israel from Iran deal negotiations. 

Chag Sameach.

My own decision -- Spiel or Fact -- will be published as an Addendum to this Post on February 28. 

Rwexler

THOUGHTS

OMG, the President called the Prime Minister on 17 February. They spoke for over one hour on matters of substance. As this call did not come until 4 weeks after the Biden Inauguration, and even though it was the first call to a leader in the Middle East, so many "forever Trumpers" were projecting their own hate of Biden, Democrats and anyone other than Trump in their collective interpretation of the failure of the President to make "the call" as, perhaps, Biden was being sworn in -- after all, Jill could have held the phone and dialed it.

As was reported during the month of no call:

"While it is clear that Biden has his hands full with a myriad of domestic challenges, every day the phone doesn’t ring adds to concerns in Israel that Netanyahu is being frozen out by the new Democratic administration because of his close ties with Donald Trump and his public antagonism of Barack Obama.

The contrast between Biden and Trump is stark: Trump called Netanyahu within two days of taking office in 2017."

And, yet, the readouts of the call were clear. “'The two leaders noted their personal ties of many years and said they will work together to continue bolstering the strong alliance between Israel and the US,' the PMO readout stated." The White House stated:

"Biden affirmed his personal history of steadfast commitment to Israel's security...Biden emphasized US support for recent normalization of relations between Israel and countries in the Arab and Muslim world." 

These affirmations of the alliance won't be enough, of course, to satisfy those who choose to parse every word as if Rashi were examining Torah. I'm sure we'll read, if we haven't already: "what about Blinken, what about Malley, what about...." and more. 

Some believed that Biden's earlier silence was designed to exact some form of "revenge" for Bibi's assault on the Obama-Biden administration in his speech to Congress attacking the JCPOA; or for the Netanyahu Government's public approval of a large housing development in, as I recall, East Jerusalem on the cusp of then V.P. Biden's first official visit to Israel as Vice President; or for that passionate embrace between the P.M. and President Trump. Yet, we, as Jewish Americans, have always understood that the primacy of the Israel-United States relationship has withstood those who would undermine it because of the understanding that that relationship benefitted both nations. Clearly, Joe Biden recognizes that.

I have not wanted to devote this space to politics, but, sometimes...Joe Biden had not been in office even a week when a torrent of vitriol began to ooze out from both the usual suspects and the Jewish "forever Trumpists" who either wrote or distributed the attacks on things that had not happened (and might not ever happen) focused in the main on the portent that the Biden Administration would focus an Iran policy on rejoining the JCPOA, abandoning sanctions in place and, thereby, abandoning Israel. Biden has offered personal assurances that neither abandonment will occur.

One titled a diatribe as Biden's Drive to War in the Middle East. The author of that column somehow deduced that even before there was any "Biden Iran policy:" "Biden's Iran policy was conceived and is being implemented by the same people who negotiated the JCPOA..." Then she went on to assert, with the same absolute certainty about a policy that did not then exist, that "[T]his policy is irrational" and, demonstrating a firm grip on irrationality, the author conjured "...the Biden team's strategic fanaticism..."  

Other columns openly alleged with incredible bile that Biden foreign policy and intelligence appointments are "sinister," and that while sounding tough, the administration can be expected to "soon cave in" just because. And, worse, that the Biden Administration -- then in office for three weeks -- "...is an active threat to (Israel's) security."

On February 20 The Jerusalem Post reported:

"The United States has no plans to meet Tehran’s demand that it lift Trump-era sanctions against Iran as a prerequisite to holding talks to reenter the 2015 nuclear deal with the Islamic Republic."

And, of course, the right-wing drumbeat will go on and on; there appears  to be no hope that the Biden Administration will be given any chance whatsoever; no benefit of the doubt. 

And, I have some bad news for these folks -- Trump is not coming back. 

 

Rwexler

JUST TOO FUNNY

Sometimes you read something that is just perfect. Like this from The Forward. Enjoy:

Donald Trump's Letter of Resignation from the Manishewitz Frequent Buyers Club

"Mr. Manny Shevitz:

I write to you today regarding the so-called Zoom Chat to Discuss Future Discount Status aimed at taking away my deals on your Jewish crackers. Who cares!

While I think your crackers taste OK with Diet Coke and work as bread for Filet-O-Fish and my grandkids seem to need them at a long boring dinner, I am very proud to say that I saved the Saltine Cracker union and Tim Ritz loves me. I don’t even drink but hear your wine is terrible and gives you a headache. It’s like you people never heard of bread. Over my long career I’ve had rye bread and sourdough and crustless PB&Js — just to name a few

Your spokesperson Sammy Davis, Jr. was a loser (said to only have one eye), and I have perfect vision and have helped your company greatly by purchasing bulk orders of your food such as macarons and Geffen fish [sic], among many others.

Which brings me to your obvious attempt to use my patronage for free publicity to distract from your awful products. Your company doesn’t do anything for this country’s pig farmers, and even less for me — unless you count making me give money away when my grandkids find your product wrapped in a towel or competing with my Trump Winery and Trump Steaks — as evident by your rejection of bacon, the great American food, which incidentally would go well with your flat crumbly bread and soup balls.

These, however, are failures of taste. Your bad markdowns are even worse.

I no longer wish to be part of your circle — squares are a much better shape anyway.

At such time this letter is to inform you of my immediate withdrawal from the Manischewitz Frequent Buyer’s Circle. You have done nothing for me.

Regards,

          Donald J. Trump"

Kal ha'kavod to the author.

Rwexler

WHAT'S WRONG WITH FACTS?

Spin...Spin...Spin...

These are the most difficult of times for our community organizations -- most, if not all of them. Yes, there is so much to be proud of as in so many places, lay and professional leaders working together have rolled up their sleeves, worked so much harder just to remain in place. And, there is nothing to be ashamed of during this plague to have ended up where one started -- that's, in fact, an incredible thing...and took an amazing amount of work. And some did even better than that.

So, I really have to restrain my normal "urges" when I am on a Zoom call or hear of one on which some bloviating CEO or lay Chair paints a picture of prosperity when everyone, including that pro and that lay leader, knows should be the verbal equivalent of Munch's The Scream. Would the organization that CEO leads be negatively impacted if he/she chose to let their hair down, talk tachlis, and  just say: "I need help...we need your help." And, if that CEO were really thoughtful, he/she might even say "We need your help, with this, with this, with this...

I remember back in the day, we were all in the depths of recession and I heard the message from communal CEOs across the country: "Never use the "r" word...never, ever. Everything is great, going well." Fooled no one. Back then, at UJA, we committed to working harder, longer; honing our message to meet the times with the brilliant professional leadership of Bernie Moskowitz and Gail Hyman. In too many places it was: "we'll wait this out and, when it's over, we'll come back." Those communities that took the UJA message of "work.harder.now" held their own and hit the ground running when the economy came back. The others...not so much.

Trust me, friends, our donors -- that's us you know -- can handle the truth. Thus, when I hear the highest levels of continental professional leadership with their lay partners bragging of the "amazing results" of their overseas advocacy that to them allowed the federations to claim that allocations to the core budgets of the overseas legacy partners were an "incredible success' thanks to "an incredible year-end effort" that resulted in the lowest allocations in recorded history, I want to put up that very same Munch Scream on the Zoom screen.

It would be a sorry circumstance indeed were amcha, in some sort of Orwellian mind-meld, to not only accept failure as success, but to brag about it.

JFNA and the federations have done some remarkable things -- its support for the Survivor community, the creation and funding leadership embodied in the funding partnership that is the Human Services Relief Matching Fund, are but two -- dwell on those, promote those. But to dwell on painting failure as success is humiliating, self-defeating and discrediting.

Stop it.

Rwexler

RABBI TWERSKI, Z'L

The Jewish People lost another giant upon the passing of Rabbi Abraham Twerski at age 90 on January 31. My time spent with this beloved Hasidic Rabbi was brief but he inspired me as he did everyone he touched. Over the decades he was a constant source of inspiration.

It was when I chaired my Federation in 1985 that I met Rabbi Twerski. Steve Nasatir called me to tell me that the Rabbi was going to be in town and we "had to" meet with him. Steve did not often direct me to a command performance so, after a few perfunctory "are you sure," we met.

If you have seen photos of the Rabbi, he looked no different than he did when we met -- the kindest eyes and the whitest beard. He spoke softly and with incredible compassion and passion. Twerski was ordained at the Hebrew Theological College and then earned degrees in medicine and psychiatry. His life and works were dedicated to bringing the totality of the branches of his education to bear.

That night Rabbi Twerski wanted us to understand that tens of thousands of Jews acxross the country were in the  midst of drug  and alcohol addiction that the Jewish communities were ignoring, apparently out of shame and ignorance. As the communities and our congregations ostracized these suffering men and women, they were forced to attend their Alcoholics Anonymous meetings in churches and storefronts. I was moved and ashamed -- how could I not have known that among our People in my own community would have been many suffering with the diseases of alcoholism and drug addiction?

Rabbi Twerski saw a Jewish religious and cultural influence on the AA 12-step program. He saw his mission, reflected in his writings and his work, as spreading the word, influencing communities to our responsibilities to those of our People most in need, whatever the cause of their need. In Steve and I and our Federation, Twerski had ready believers. With our communal leadership, we created and funded a program responsive to th needs -- the needs to educate and serve.

And so we joined the 1000's directly influenced by this charismatic Rabbi.  It was one of the best moments among so many over the two years of my Federation Chairmanship; it was certainly one of thise moments of which I am so proud.

May Rabbi Avraham Twerski's memory be for a blessing. Baruch dayan emet.

Rwexler

FROM LITTLE ACORNS

It began a long, long time ago. 

In October or November 1986 as I recall. I had just been installed as the Board Chair of my Federation, working in my office in Chicago's Loop, when I received a call from Steve Nasatir's Assistant asking me to please come over to the Federation offices "for a minute or two." I'm pretty sure I asked why, but, perhaps not. I walked the few blocks to the then Chicago Federation building where one of the senior federation Campaign professionals was waiting to intercept me. He was carrying a check facsimile -- about 4 feet by 10 feet -- in the amount of $100,000 payable to Chicago's JUF.

Holding the opposite corner of this facsimile was a tall, handsome fellow, wearing a kippah and smiling. "Richard, meet Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein; he's started up an organization, the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews, raising money within the Christian Evangelical movement to support Jews living in poverty in Eastern Europe and Israel." 

And, so it began -- one can draw a through-line from that date in 1986 to the recent sad case of the Jewish Agency's alleged termination of a partnership with a messianic Christian organization -- Canada's Return Ministries -- in the operation of a Jewish Agency company's project in the Galilee....and, perhaps, more.

From that 1st check, Rabbi Eckstein, z'l, built the IFCJ empire that his daughter continues on today with strength after the sudden death of Yechiel almost 2 years ago to the day. From my few blocks' long journey to pose, JUF professionals were soon traveling worldwide for photo-ops with ever-larger checks. And Rabbi Eckstein's ever-larger appetite for promotion led to his demands for greater recognition. 

From Chicago, those checks grew to become a contribution to the Jewish Agency through the United Jewish Appeal, then through Keren Ha'Yesod and, feeling insufficiently appreciated, direct allocations to the Jewish Agency itself -- contributions that soon approached those of the largest Federations. Rabbi Eckstein was first rewarded by JAFI with a constant barrage of thanks, then the Chairmanship of the JA Aliyah Department (in which, candidly, it appeared he had not much interest) and a seat on the Agency Executive and speaking privileges at all meetings with the Prime Minister. As the JAFI/Eckstein relationship cratered, a parallel partnership with the JDC flourished.

The IFCJ-JA "partnership" ultimately fell apart with mutual recriminations after Yechiel demanded equal status with the Jewish Federations on JAFI letterhead. Agency personnel had agreed to the new reflection of the IFCJ status as the first decade of the new Millennium drew to a close. The federations had not been consulted and, when they were told, they just said "no," the promises made to Yechiel notwithstanding. Agency leadership responded by asserting that no such deal on status had ever been agreed to; inasmuch as Eckstein was carrying around mock-ups of the proposed new letterhead, it appeared that a deal had been made. 

Never one to sit back, always citing his 100's of 1000's of donors, Yechiel pulled his dollars from JAFI and became JDC's new partner. The IFCJ began running its own Aliyah flights with its own basket of absorption benefits and its own deal with the Government. Fast-forwarding to the last months of 2020, the IFCJ and JAFI are once again working together to the credit of JA Chair of the Executive, Bougie Herzog, and Yael Eckstein.

BTW, if any (or all) of this resonates as familiar, reread the Return Ministries-JA balagan at your leisure.

The relationship between the Jewish Agency and Rabbi Eckstein was mutually beneficial -- the JA reaped 10's of millions in grants and the IFCJ received promotion of its works that it might not otherwise have received  benefitting its fund-raising.  Rabbi Eckstein's leadership assured that the donations he collected supported the Jewish Agency's work without even the fear that the Fellowship would in any way engage in conversion efforts or proselytizing --the only thing that Eckstein proselytized about was greater donations and the great benefits to the State of Israel from the growing support of Evangelical Christianity.

And, then, suddenly the Fellowship ATM was closed; the Jewish Agency, already suffering the affects of Federation/JFNA allocations collapsing, began thrashing about for other funding sources. And, voila, missionary evangelicals to the "rescue." Some have suggested that the Return Ministries debacle was but the tip of a growing iceberg of Agency indifference to evangelical proselytizing as long as the money for JAFI was there -- what some would call "turning a blind eye." 

One can only hope and pray that the Return Ministries embroglio was an aberration; a one-off not to be repeated. But, the Jewish Agency's financial desperation has only grown. So, even greater vigilance is vital.

Now...

Rwexler