Meretz USA resolution against discrimination and for freedom of expression in the Zionist movement

(Drafted and submitted by Meretz USA and approved by the 2010 World Zionist Congress Committee on Zionist Organization in the Diaspora (the Zionist Federations) and in Israel)

Whereas human rights, equality, democracy, and freedom of expression are core values of the Zionist movement as envisioned by Benjamin Ze’ev Herzl and the founders of the Zionist movement, and

Whereas the values of freedom, justice and peace as envisaged by the prophets of Israel are enshrined in the Declaration of Independence of the State of Israel, and

Whereas, morally and in its spirit, the founders of the State of Israel declared that it will ensure complete equality of social and political rights to all its inhabitants irrespective of religion, race or sex; it will guarantee freedom of religion, conscience, language, education and culture, and

Whereas the ancient Jewish principles and values of Tikkun Olam, the repairing of the world, compel every Jew to do his/her utmost to seek peace, justice and respect for human rights of every person:

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT:

1.      Any group of movement that are currently members of the World Zionist Organization or any of its affiliated federations shall not promote via the means at its disposal any principles or actions that directly or indirectly promote discrimination or the curtailing of freedom of expression.

2.      After due process to be determined by the Zionist executive, any group or movement that is determined to promote via its means any principles or actions that directly or indirectly promote discrimination or the curtailing of freedom of expression, shall not be able to continue its membership and/or participation in the World Zionist Organization or any of its affiliated federations.