Robert Bank, President and CEO of American Jewish World Service (AJWS) issued the following statement:
“We applaud the record numbers of Americans who exercised their rights and went to the polls, and we are gratified that they voted to end one-party rule by President Trump, whose corrosive blend of nationalism and xenophobia has undermined U.S. leadership around the world. Under the banner of ‘America First,’ Trump has inflamed hate and bigotry at home and abroad, abdicated American leadership on human rights worldwide and undermined key international institutions necessary to bolster democracy and achieve justice.
“As American Jews and as advocates for human rights worldwide, we have been deeply disturbed by President Trump’s intolerant rhetoric and destructive actions. We look to the new House of Representatives to both serve as a check on President Trump’s worst impulses and to start the hard work of restoring our nation’s role as a global leader for human rights, a partner in the fight against global poverty and a leader on combatting climate change.
“We are proud to stand as Jewish Americans in solidarity with thousands of advocates from diverse backgrounds in 19 developing countries, who at great personal risk are fighting against increasingly authoritarian governments. These governments have been acting boldly to punish dissenters, oppress minorities and undermine the free press in the belief that the United States under President Trump will not act to uphold human rights and hold them accountable. We call on the new Members of the House of Representatives to use their power and influence to insist that the U.S. pursue a compassionate and principled foreign policy with a goal of advancing human rights and combatting poverty.”
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About American Jewish World Service (AJWS)
American Jewish World Service (AJWS) is the leading Jewish organization working to fight poverty and pursue justice in the developing world. By supporting hundreds of social change organizations in 19 countries, we respond to the most pressing issues of our time—from disasters, genocide and hunger, to the persecution of women and minorities worldwide. With Jewish values and a global reach, AJWS is making a difference in millions of lives and bringing a more just and equitable world closer for all.
For More Information
If you are a member of the press and wish to obtain information about our work or speak to a member of our global team on deadline, please contact Tanyanika Davis, Director of Media Relations, at tdavis@ajws.org.
