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(MAY 8, 2023 / VINNEWS) Event Chair Robert Rechnitz introduces ZOA’s Morton Klein saying, “This is a totally nonpartisan event. Everyone here has one common goal - we’re all here to build the America-Israel relationship and I don’t think anyone emulates that better than Morton Klein and the work he’s done his whole life.” (9:30 in video)
“Today we celebrate a partnership widely considered to be one of the most enduring bilateral relationships in modern history. A partnership that has been built on a foundation of shared democratic values, mutual security interests, and deep cultural and economic values. Today we celebrate the momentous 75-year anniversary of U.S.-Israeli relations and look towards the bright future in years to come.”
These were the words from Bobby Rechnitz as he welcomed Members of Congress and a diverse audience at an event to build momentum for a House Bill aimed at honoring Israel’s 75th anniversary with the striking coin, in commemoration of Prime Minister Golda Meir, marking 75 years of Israeli independence and honoring the life and legacy of the first and only female Prime Minister of Israel, Golda Meir.
This initiative honors the unique relationship that Golda Meir had with the United States and successive US Presidents. Moving to the United States from Ukraine when she was eight years old, Golda Meir lived in Milwaukee as a proud naturalized U.S. citizen before later emigrating to Mandatory Palestine. Going on to sign Israel’s Declaration of Independence in 1949, Golda Meir was a bedrock of stability in early Israeli politics serving as both the Minister of Labor and the Foreign Minister, before going on to serve the public as the first female Prime Minister of Israel in 1969.
Introduced by Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz, who told guests that as a child she was inspired by Meir whom she called a rare symbol of Jewish female power on the global stage.
“Golda Meir’s story is a testament to the progress of the Jewish people, and that of Jewish women in particular,” said Rep. Wasserman Schultz. “As a founder of the State of Israel, she modeled leadership for future generations and was fundamental in strengthening the United States-Israel partnership. I’m proud to sponsor this legislation to cement her place in history.”
“Prime Minister was a trailblazer and remarkable world leader who is deserving of this recognition and more. Under her leadership, Israel became the free, democratic nation it is today,” said Rep. Andrew Garbarino, the lead Republican of the Bill. “I am proud to lend my support to this fitting commemoration of this critical relationship between the United States and our friend and ally, Israel.”
Closing remarks were delivered by William Daroff, CEO of Conference of Presidents and Morton A. Klein, National President of the Zionist Organization of America.
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