Although the author notes that the New Israel Fund “denies being involved in the BDS movement” (“BDS Money Trail Suggests Opaque Funding Network,” Oct. 16), he suggests otherwise by listing us among BDS organizations. This is journalistically unacceptable and destructive for the pro-Israel community.
NIF neither directly nor indirectly promotes BDS: we do not fund organizations that support BDS or affiliate with the movement. To the contrary, our entire raison d’etre is to invest in Israel as a Jewish and democratic state. We believe the BDS movement is counterproductive and threatening to Israel as the Jewish homeland.
Despite our unequivocal policy again BDS, we suffer from the witch hunt for BDS supporters. For those who disagree with our work in Israel — advancing democracy, protecting human rights, ensuring a rich and pluralistic Judaism, and combatting occupation — we invite you to argue with us on the merits rather than employing the base tactic of guilt by illogical association.
At this precarious time, our Jewish communal conversation should be directed toward constructive support of Israel—the type of support that is at the heart of the New Israel Fund’s work.
Director, NY/Tri-State New Israel Fund
The New York Jewish Week brings you the stories behind the headlines, keeping you connected to Jewish life in New York. Help sustain the reporting you trust by donating today.
