Our Jewish friends must be very proud of this. The organization has been controversial at times (and what political organization trying to do some good in this world hasn't) but on the whole it has tried to make a difference.
(NEW YORK, NY -- March 8, 2005) -- The Hadassah Medical Organization, which has achieved international acclaim for promoting peace in the Middle East region by providing equal treatment to Palestinians and Israelis, has been nominated for the 2005 Nobel Peace Prize.
Although the Norwegian Nobel Committee does not release the names of nominees, professors and members of legislatures from at least four different countries recently revealed to Hadassah officials that they had extended formal nominations on behalf of the medical organization, according to June Walker, National President of
Hadassah, the Women's Zionist Organization of America, the founder and benefactor of the medical organization.
Their nominations cited three areas in which Hadassah Medical Organization has excelled in promoting peace in the region: the ability to maintain the value of equal treatment for all people despite treating more terror victims than any other medical center; the model of cooperation and coexistence set by the mixed staff of
people of all faiths; and the medical organization's ongoing initiatives in creating bridges for peace even throughout the intifada.
"I can't think of a more meaningful way to celebrate our founding," said Walker, noting that the organization is celebrating its 93rd birthday this month. "The values of Hadassah continue to set the standard that all people need to strive for."
The winner of $1.6 million prize will be announced in the fall.
Hadassah, The Women's Zionist Organization of America, is the largest women's, largest Jewish and largest Zionist organization in the U.S., and supports the Hadassah Medical Organization in Israel. HMO is the most advanced medical and research center in the Middle East: Nearly one million patients from all over the world are treated each year at the two hospitals, a community health center, and more than 100 outpatient clinics. In the U.S., Hadassah programs also include health education and services, social action and advocacy, Jewish education, conservation, and forging partnerships with Israel. For more information on Hadassah, please visit
www.hadassah.org
More information on the founding and goals of the group from their website:
Founded in 1912, Hadassah retains the passion and timeless values of its founder, Henrietta Szold, Jewish scholar and activist, who was dedicated to Judaism, Zionism, and the American ideal.
Committed to the centrality of Israel based on the renaissance of the Jewish people in its historic homeland, Hadassah promotes the unity of the Jewish people. In Israel, Hadassah initiates and supports pace-setting health care, education and youth institutions, and land development to meet the country's changing needs.
In the United States, Hadassah enhances the quality of American and Jewish life through its education and Zionist youth programs, promotes health awareness, and provides personal enrichment and growth for its members.
Congratulations to the women of Hadassah. And good luck on your nomination.
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