In the streets? No, in the gutter.

I have reached a new level of disgust with regard to the international political activities of Hadassah Women's Zionist Organization of American.  Recall that HWZOA has overseen the systematic failure of Hadassah Medical Organization.  But rather than acknowledging any flaws in its own governance and oversight of this crown jewel of Israel's health care system, it seeks to impose blame on the government of Israel.  While there are clearly policy changes that are needed to help the role of non-profit hospitals like Hadassah, it is totally inappropriate for the American Jewish community to expend political capital in this self-serving manner.  I hope that Israeli politicians see this tactic for what it is.

Here's the latest missive from the head of HWZOA:

Now is the time to stand in solidarity with Hadassah Medical Organization (HMO). My previous emails and our dedicated HMO UPDATE webpage have kept you informed about the recovery effort at HMO. But now is the time for you to take action. Negotiations with the Government of Israel continue, but to date have not resulted in the changes we need to keep Hadassah's hospitals thriving and serving the people of Israel. 

On Tuesday, March 18, a large tent will be erected outside the Knesset in Jerusalem. Hundreds of supporters—including physicians, nurses, former patients, and concerned citizens—will make their voices heard. I will be leading a contingent of HMO Board members, HWZOA past presidents, Hadassah Office in Israel and representatives from Hadassah International, Youth Aliyah and Young Judaea. We will present a petition in support of HMO with more than 20,000 signatures to the Government of Israel, and invite Members of the Knesset to visit the tent and meet with us. On the same day, we are calling for a show of solidarity at the Israeli Consulate in New York City.

There are three important ways to show your love of Hadassah and your support of Israel’s finest medical organization, even if you are not in the New York area.

1.     Sign the petition today.
It must be signed by Wednesday, March 12.
2.      Join our virtual rally! ! Take a “selfie” (photo of yourself) holding a sign in support of Hadassah's hospitals, and post it on Hadassah’s Facebook page. And get together with members of your chapter and take a group “selfie” for Facebook.
Suggested signs:

o    I stand with Hadassah's hospitals

o    Support Hadassah's hospitals

o    I want fair treatment for Hadassah's hospitals

o    I’m with Hadassah's hospitals 

3.    Tweet your support to #ImWithHadassahHospitals. Encourage your family and friends to do the same.