The Weizmann Institute of Science awarded honorary doctorates to Marc Chagall, the artist, and to Sir Harold Wilson, former Prime Minister of Britain. Chagall, who is 90, received the honor “in recognition of his eternal and unique art in which he immortalized with talent and sensitivity a Jewish world that no longer exists and his great love for Israel.” The artist, responding, said, “All my life I just painted poor Jews looking for a place to live in peace. Now these poor Jews have finally come here and built this country with their own hands.”
Sir Harold was awarded the doctorate in recognition of his “standing as a spokesman for the free world, his being a brilliant leader of Great Britain, the country which 60 years ago assisted the establishment of a Jewish homeland with the Balfour Declaration and in appreciation of his friendship and support for Israel ever since its establishment.” The British Labor statesman told the audience: “In a period of great strain and anxiety for Israel, your friends in other countries will do all in their power to ensure that you enjoy peace and stability.” The ceremonies took place last Sunday in Rehovot.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
