Dear Friends,

Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, Inc., mourns with the entire Jewish community today. We are devastated to learn that on Shabbat, at least 11 of our brothers and sisters were murdered. The gunman who entered the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, PA screamed, “all Jews must die”, as gunfire rained down on members of the congregation who had gathered for morning Shabbat services.

Our hearts go out to all who have been affected by this tragedy, especially our members in the Pittsburgh area. We are deeply saddened by the loss of Daniel Stein z"l, the husband of Sharyn Stein, Membership VP of Hadassah Greater Pittsburgh Region.

Our deep gratitude goes out to the first responders, four of which are among the wounded. We pray for their full recovery.

According to a report by the ADL, anti-Semitic incidents and attacks have risen by 60% in the United States in the last year alone. This shocking escalation in hate both at home and abroad requires swift and broad action by our leaders.

As members of Hadassah, we must continue to stand strong against anti-Semitism and hate wherever it is present. As the NGO (non-governmental organization) convener of the Never Again Education Act, Hadassah members have a unique role to play in ensuring this bill becomes law. Head to our National Action Center now to take action on policy priorities that matter to you, including this bill that would expand Holocaust Education and anti-hate curricula.

When one life is taken all our lives are affected in common grief and conviction to make the world a better place. May we go from strength to strength.

B’Shalom,