They may not realize it yet, but a group of donors that has battled the S.F.-based Jewish Community Federation since July scored a win last week. And so did the federation.
Who belongs to this group of donors? Bay Area Jews angry over events surrounding the San Francisco Jewish Film Festival’s screening of the documentary “Rachel” and what they view as the federation’s timid response.
On Nov. 19 the federation board rejected a resolution the group supported. It would have prohibited JCF from funding organizations that “defame Israel” and from partnering “with individuals or groups that call for boycott-divestment-sanctions [BDS] against Israel.”
But that ambiguously worded resolution would have been impossible to enforce. What if a local Hillel invited a speaker who had once said something that could be spun as supporting BDS? Would the federation be duty-bound to cut funding to Hillel?
The talmudic-like arguments over situations such as this would never end.
Instead, the JCF board approved three resolutions that further the group’s goals: fighting the BDS movement and ensuring the federation will not support those that endorse BDS or delegitimize Israel. (For more details, see j.’s story on page 3.)
First, it adopted a strong anti-BDS resolution identical to one passed this month by the Jewish Federations of North America.
The JCF also changed its instructions to potential grantees, requiring them to consult with organizations such as the Jewish Community Relations Council if they worry a planned program might spark turmoil, a la the “Rachel” screening.
Finally, the board formed a working group to explore “various diverse pro-Israel voices regarding the boundaries of grantees expression on Israel beyond BDS” and report back in February.
Arguably none of these steps would have happened unless the group of donors pressed the federation. It’s hard to believe that in November 2009 the main subject of a board meeting would be boycotts rather than the difficulties of raising funds in a state with over 12 percent unemployment. Not to mention the federation’s core mission of helping Jews and Jewish institutions in need.
But let’s not lose sight of one central fact. This federation has always been staunchly pro-Israel. The JCF’s record in that regard is without blemish. To suggest otherwise is foolish.
It’s time to stop attacking the federation, declare victory and go home. Clearly the federation has made an irrevocable statement of opposition to any anti-Israel actions. Now it’s time for the healing to begin.