Chanuka Heroes – Seventh Night - American Zionist Movement

OUR SEVENTH CANDLE is a reflection on the immutable connection of American Jewry to Israel. Our candle reminds us that the Jewish People are One, and that Israel is central to Jewish life. As we remember the Maccabees who defended Jewish peoplehood, let us unite, Americans and Israelis together, in celebration of the modern State of Israel, our national home.

Portrait of Louis Brandeis by Andy Warhol
The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc. Courtesy Ronald Feldman Fine Arts, New York

Chanukah hero:
Louis Brandeis, Leader of American Zionism

Louis Brandeis (1856-1941) was an American lawyer who led the way for Americans to support the Zionist Movement. He served as the head of the Federation for American Zionists from 1914-1918. President Woodrow Wilson appointed him to be the first Jewish Supreme Court Justice in the US in 1916. He was able to use his political influence in the negotiations leading up to the Balfour Declaration, a statement of British support for the establishment of a Jewish homeland in Palestine.

Brandeis is a Chanukah Hero because:

He emphasized the compatibility of Zionism and American patriotism – both of which are based firmly on democratic principles
He was committed to the establishment of a Jewish homeland in Palestine in order to achieve self-determination and freedom for Jews worldwide.

The American Zionist Movement Today

Today, the American Zionist Movement strengthens the connection of American Jews with Israel, through activities including:

Yom Kef for Sderot
The citizens of Sderot have suffered greatly from living under an unyielding barrage of Qassam rocket fire for the last five years. AZM’s Yom Kef,” or “fun days,” provided these Israelis with a welcome reprieve from the constant tension, with an itinerary which provided enrichment as well as fun.

Bring Them Home Now: Campaign for Israel’s Abducted Soldiers
Since the 1980s, AZM has advocated tirelessly on the behalf of Israeli soldiers missing or abducted in the line of duty, working to restore them to their families and country. The campaign increases awareness, provides educational resources, and encourages collective action on this crucial issue.

Young Leadership Development AZM places great importance on the development of the leaders of tomorrow. Young Leadership activities in Chicago and New York include Zionist book clubs, movie nights, and professional meetings. The Helyn B. Reich Scholarship helps provide outstanding members of the next generation with scholarships for Israel study.

AZM furthers Zionist principles:

Developing American appreciation of the centrality of Israel to Jewish life worldwide;
Deepening understanding of Israeli society and the challenges it faces;
Encouraging travel, long-term visits and Aliyah to Israel;
Facilitating dialogue, debate and collective action to further Zionism in the United States and abroad.