July 20, 2020 - NEW YORK – Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America, mourns the loss of Congressman John Lewis – an icon of the struggle for civil rights and equality and a leader in uniting Black and Jewish communities. Lewis’ life was and will remain an example of an extraordinary commitment to tikkun olam, or repairing the world.
“Congressman Lewis was a lifelong leader who stood with great courage for all people yearning for equality in the face of discrimination. He used his towering voice to help knock down barriers, unite communities, and build a more peaceful and tolerant world than the one he was born into. His example will live on in the actions of others, including members of the Atlanta Black-Jewish Coalition and the Congressional Caucus on Black-Jewish relations – both of which he helped establish – and inspire generations to come,” said Hadassah National President Rhoda Smolow.
“Having the privilege of knowing Congressman Lewis personally for over 30 years,” said Hadassah CEO/Executive Director Janice Weinman, “it’s undoubtable that the world has lost a true leader and the conscience of our country. Congressman Lewis brought courage, boldness, and compassion to the issues we face regarding human dignity. May his memory be a blessing and inspiration to all who loved and admired him.”
ABOUT HADASSAH:
Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, Inc. (HWZOA) is the largest Jewish women’s organization in the United States. With 300,000 members, Associates and supporters Hadassah brings Jewish women together to effect change and advocate on critical issues such as medical care and research and women's empowerment. Through the Hadassah Medical Organization's two hospitals, the world-renowned trauma center and the leading research facility in Jerusalem, Hadassah supports the delivery of exemplary patient care to over a million people every year. HMO serves without regard to race, religion or nationality and earned a Nobel Peace Prize Nomination in 2005 for building “bridges to peace” through equality in medical treatment. For more information, visit www.hadassah.org.