Thank You Mr. Kennedy

by Jerry Waxman

There are some in Israel who take issue with Ted Kennedy because he was “a liberal.” They’re completely missing the plot, the same as those who assume that Barack Obama is antagonistic toward Israel because of his Islamic heritage and/or leftist leanings.

Such labels – conservative, liberal, rightist, leftist – are of no use. People’s opinions about issues are far less important than their actions. And political leaders should be judged for their effectiveness and for doing the right thing, not for the political party they belong to.

I am biased. I have been a Kennedy fan since my youth, when John Kennedy was president. Ted Kennedy, like many in his family, dedicated his life to service.

In his capacity as senator, he sought equity for everyone, so those brought up in less privileged conditions might have the same opportunities as the wealthy. We see this in his advocacy of civil rights, and we see this in his fight for health care reform.

Though Ted Kennedy made some big mistakes in his life, I think Americans owe him a debt of gratitude for all he has done for his country.

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Israel also owes Ted Kennedy a debt of gratitude for being such a strong supporter. Staunch anti-Israel “leftists” may be dismayed to learn that Edward Kennedy cosponsored the Jerusalem Embassy Act in the mid 1990′s.

    The act declares that U.S. policy would be that:

  • Jerusalem remain an undivided city in which the rights of every ethnic religious group are protected;
  • Jerusalem be recognized as the capital of the State of Israel;
  • The U.S. Embassy in Israel be established in Jerusalem . . . .

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It was reported today in Israel National News that Prime Minister Netanyahu told British officials in London that Jerusalem is the “sovereign capital” of Israel, and that we would not stop building there.

This was a pretty courageous position to take, given the anti-Israel rhetoric that gets shouted on the airwaves. Courageous as it seems, Netanyahu’s position is supported by many members of the U.S. Congress. Amongst them is the “Liberal Lion” who was able to befriend and persuade members on both sides of the congressional aisle.

Perhaps President Obama will take time not only to reflect on all he has learned from his mentor and friend, Ted Kennedy. Perhaps he will take the time to review Kennedy’s support for Israel. And perhaps Obama will see the wisdom in supporting Israel as Kennedy has done. Not because it follows a liberal or leftist agenda, but because it is the right thing to do.

Thank you again, Mr. Kennedy.


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Filed under: About Israel

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