Azf Head Urges Black Americans to Follow Lead of Black Congressmen

Rabbi Israel Miller, president of the American Zionist Federation, called today on Blacks to follow the lead of the Congressional Black Caucus, which yesterday stressed Israel’s “right to existence” and said the Jewish historical experience “has helped inspire Black people in this country to strive for self respect and dignity and to revive their own cultural heritage.”

The AZF leader declared that “American Jews want to redevelop a good relationship with the Black community here, but the Black leadership must know that any such steps are impossible until the Blacks react in more positive fashion to values cherished by the Jewish community.” It is “inconceivable,” he continued, “that any real friendship can be developed between our two peoples until the Blacks are prepared to understand and accept our deep concern for Israel.”

Rabbi Miller’s criticism was in reference to the resolution passed last week at the National Black Political Convention in Gary, Ind., endorsing the “dismantling” of Israel. A spokesman for Rabbi Miller said he considered it an official resolution even though it was passed at the tall end of the convention with only some of the delegates present. Richard G. Hatcher, the Black Mayor of Gary, has called the resolution “very unfortunate” and unrepresentative of the convention’s attitudes.

“Israel is not negotiable to Jews,” Rabbi Miller asserted, “and the sooner this fact of life becomes apparent to the Black community, the sooner a real dialogue leading to reestablishment of friendlier Black-Jewish relations will emerge. The action taken by the 13 Black (Caucus) Congressmen, therefore, is a step in the right direction and augurs well for improved Black-Jewish relationships.”