At its January meetings in West Palm Beach, FL, Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, adopted three new policy statements aimed at tackling critical global and domestic challenges. The resolutions focus on fighting antisemitism and anti-Israel bias at the United Nations, ensuring access to emergency medical care, and advocating for science-based policymaking.
A Legacy of Advocacy
“Building upon our legacy of strong advocacy, Hadassah leaders and members continue to stand up for Israel at the United Nations and to make our voices heard in Washington, DC, in the halls of Congress and in state capitals across the country,” said Carol Ann Schwartz, National President of Hadassah. “Our three new policy statements affirm these Hadassah priorities and demonstrate that we will continue to advocate to secure needed reform at every level of government.”
Hadassah CEO Ellen Finkelstein reinforced the organization’s mission, stating, “Hadassah’s new policy statements guide our advocacy as we respond to the emerging issues facing our nation, Israel, and the world. We are proud of our relentlessness in fighting antisemitism and championing women’s and public health.”
Confronting Antisemitism and UN Bias
Hadassah’s resolution Fighting Antisemitism and Anti-Israel Sentiment at the United Nations comes in response to the UN’s failure to hold Hamas accountable following its October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, as well as its refusal to push for the release of Israeli hostages. The organization condemned Palestinian-led resolutions aimed at delegitimizing Israel’s right to self-defense and expressed deep concern over the global surge in antisemitism.
Hadassah pledged to continue working with U.S. policymakers and international leaders to combat antisemitism at the UN and to push for independent action against Hamas for its terrorist activities.
Defending Access to Emergency Care
Hadassah also reaffirmed its commitment to reproductive rights and medical access through its policy statement Affirming Support for Stabilizing Emergency Care. The resolution follows the 2022 Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision, which led to increased restrictions on emergency medical care for pregnant individuals across the U.S.
Hadassah’s policy emphasizes the need to protect access to life-saving emergency treatments, including abortion, and to safeguard healthcare professionals who provide these critical services. The organization maintains that bodily autonomy and the right to comprehensive medical care must remain fundamental health priorities.
Championing Science-Based Policymaking
With its policy statement Support for Science and Evidence-Based Policymaking, Hadassah reinforced its belief that health policies must be grounded in scientific research and expertise. As the owner of the Hadassah Medical Organization, a world-class hospital system in Israel, the organization underscored the importance of federal funding for medical research and the translation of scientific discoveries into practical healthcare solutions.
Hadassah also voiced strong opposition to efforts that undermine medical providers and pledged to advocate for policies that prioritize evidence-based medical decisions over political ideology.
Continuing the Fight for Justice and Healthcare Access
With these three policy statements, Hadassah reaffirmed its commitment to its core values: fighting antisemitism, supporting Israel, defending healthcare access, and championing science-driven policies. The organization vowed to continue its advocacy efforts in Washington, at the UN, and within communities across the U.S.
“Our advocacy is relentless because the challenges we face are urgent,” said Finkelstein. “Hadassah will continue to stand up for what is right—for Israel, for women’s health, and for science.”