Labor Zionists Urge Action to Prevent Polarization

More than 200 delegates to the New York annual Conference of the Labor Zionist Alliance today urged intensified support and participation in Jewish communal bodies and resolved to do all in their power to prevent further polarization in New York City. Dr. I.M. Biderman of New York, Jewish historian and educator, was elected president of the New York Conference of the LZA.

He told the delegates that the anniversaries now being celebrated–25 years of Israel, 75 years of the Zionist movement, and others–are not merely dates but times for further mobilization for action to continue to be partners in Israel’s upbuilding and to continue to fortify progressive Jewish life in America.

In its resolution on community affairs, the Labor Zionists said that “now as in the past, we must continue to initiate, expedite and support programs of vital importance to the Jewish community. We must make every effort to ensure a decent life for all citizens in order to make this a just, viable and safe city.” Dr. Judah J. Shapiro, national president of the LZA, pointed out that “New York is the largest single Jewish community in the world and our efforts and programs here must demonstrate an example of our beliefs and a model for other communities and groups.”

He declared that “we must reject the prevailing notions that ideology in America has come to an end. All about us we see conditions which can only be corrected by people with ideals and who strive for a better world.” A resolution adopted by the Conference stated: “A forum must be provided for the airing of grievances in order to evaluate and eliminate the root causes of confrontation. The Jewish community must prevent acts of desperation by providing responsible leadership before self-seeking demagogues rush into the vacuum.” The delegates also condemned the Soviet head tax, called for the release of all Jewish political prisoners and the right to emigrate.