Dear
Friends 2011. What a year. Never has the New Israel Fund faced the challenges and opportunities we now confront in Israel. No fewer than 44 anti-democratic laws were proposed by ultra-nationalists in the Knesset last year, ten of which passed. Laws that would defund or penalize our family of progressive organizations. Laws usurping the independence of the judiciary, trammeling the free press, curtailing freedom of speech. Racist and exclusionary laws. Working with our flagship grantee, the Association for Civil Rights in Israel, NIF/Shatil’s Center for Policy Change beat much of this back, at least temporarily. Our leadership of the pro-democracy forces in Israel found support overseas, with thousands of people including leaders of the American Jewish community weighing in for democracy and justice. And then, suddenly, the landscape changed. Almost out of nowhere, a street protest against high housing costs in Tel Aviv became the largest nationwide movement for social justice in Israel’s history. Our support for the protests in Israel’s periphery and Shatil’s assistance to the fledgling movement made a big difference — and NIF U.S. was the only organization outside Israel to raise funds to help. By the end of the year, the rising tide of religious extremism and the growing exclusion of women from the public sphere commanded headlines in Israel and worldwide. Secretary of State Clinton weighed in, and we found ourselves at the center of new efforts for women’s rights and a tolerant, pluralistic Israel. Through it all, you were there. With activism, reaching out repeatedly to Israel’s leaders. With financial support, making it one of our most successful years ever. And with the understanding that the battle for Israel’s future is now engaged, cannot be shirked, and must be won.
Naomi Chazan President
Daniel Sokatch Chief Executive Officer
Rachel Liel Executive Director in Israel
One special note: After four years of volunteer leadership during the most challenging time in NIF’s history, Naomi Chazan is stepping down as NIF’s Chair. Brian Lurie, a lifelong leader in the American Jewish community, assumes that leadership in 2012. The entire NIF family thanks Naomi for her tireless and brave efforts, in the face of virulent personal attacks, and reassures everyone that she will remain a leader in the NIF family. Our thanks to her — and to you. Daniel Sokatch/Rachel Liel