Resolution Supporting President George W. Bush Following the Terrorist Attacks of September 11, 2001

WHEREAS the President of the United States, George W. Bush, all those serving in our Armed Forces, and all firefighters, law enforcement officers and emergency/rescue personnel, deserve the dedicated, wholehearted support and sincere gratitude of all American s as they respond to the treacherous terrorist acts carried out on American soil on September 11, 2001; and

WHEREAS by their decisive and unselfish examples of leadership and courage under fire, President Bush, government officials, and military, law enforcement and rescue personnel are inspiring and encouraging our fellow citizens to rally to our country’s support during this time of national tragedy; and

WHEREAS President Bush and his administration have unequivocally and courageously waged a war against terrorism in the hopes of creating a safer world for all its inhabitants; and

WHEREAS President Bush has shown unwavering support for the State of Israel, a nation that has been victimized by wanton acts of terrorism since its inception; and

WHEREAS President Bush has wisely refused to negotiate with terrorists; and

WHEREAS President Bush has rightfully labeled groups such as Hizbollah and Hamas as terrorist groups who pose a threat to all peace loving people; and

WHEREAS President Bush declared at a joint session of Congress on September 20, 2001, that “Every nation, in every region, now has a decision to make.  Either you are with us, or you are with the terrorists. From this day forward, any nation that continues to harbor or support terrorism will be regarded by the United States as a hostile regime; and

WHEREAS President Bush declared on December 2, 2001, that “Chairman Arafat must do everything in his power to find those who murdered innocent Israelis and bring them to justice”; and

WHEREAS President Bush has succeeded in forming a non-partisan coalition of all American who cherish freedom and eschew terrorism while, at the same time, fully respecting diversity---political, ethnic and religious’

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Rabbinical Assembly, in appreciation of America’s unparalleled heritage of freedom, democracy and opportunity, extends its support and sincere appreciation to President George W. Bush and all those who are bravely and selflessly upholding the ideals and institutions of our great nation at this time of grave need; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Rabbinical Assembly encourage the members of our movement, both lay and professional, to express their gratitude on a personal basis through concerted letter writing and e-mail campaigns in our congregations, schools, camps, and youth activities to President Bush, expressing our gratitude to President Bush for his courageous acts in the face of evil men and women who strive to undermine the values of freedom and liberty which we hold dear.

Passed by Rabbinical Assembly Plenum, February, 2002