[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 17 (Tuesday, February 26, 2002)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E210]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    CELEBRATING 90 YEARS OF HADASSAH

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. SHELLEY BERKLEY

                               of nevada

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 26, 2002

  Ms. BERKLEY. Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to publicly 
acknowledge one of the finest volunteer organizations in America. 
Founded by Henrietta Szold in 1912, Hadassah has been a shining example 
of the Jewish commandment, ``Tikkun Olam,'' healing the world.
  I am proud to be a longtime, and life member of a group that has been 
a strong advocate for American-Israeli relations, the Jewish religion 
and family, civil liberties, and women's health. Over the course of the 
past nine decades, Hadassah has demonstrated an unsurpassed compassion 
and zeal for improving the quality of life for Jews, and for all 
people, everywhere.
  Hadassah's best known project is the Hadassah Medical Organization. 
This world renowned medical complex provides unsurpassed medical care, 
world class research and professional training for the people of the 
Middle East. Set in the heart of Jerusalem in Mount Scopus, and in Ein 
Kerem, the Hadassah Medical Organization has long been a symbol of 
Jewish values. Built in one of the world's most troubled regions, 
Hadassah's hospital has consistently provided the highest quality of 
medical care to all people, regardless of race, religion, or national 
identity. Hadassah doctors have been the hidden heroes for fallen 
soldiers, the victims of countless terrorist attacks, and ordinary 
people, Arab and Jew alike, who seek medical care for their children.
  Hadassah is also the sponsor of the Young Judaea program, one of the 
most impressive Jewish youth organizations in the world. Young Judaca 
has played a critical role in the development of tens of thousands of 
American Jewish youth. Located throughout the United States, Young 
Judaea offers Jewish youngsters an opportunity to interact with other 
Jewish youth, and learn about their Jewish identity, Zionism, and 
commitment to their community. In addition to their successful summer 
camp program, Young Judaea provides outstanding programs for young 
Americans in Israel. Through Hadassah, Young Judaea has enriched the 
lives, and broadened the horizons of generations of Jewish youth.
  Hadassah's efforts improve the lives of all women, the Jewish 
community, and all Americans. Their Women's Health Department runs a 
nationwide ``Check It Out'' campaign to detect and raise awareness of 
breast cancer. Hadassah has also played a central role in encouraging 
women to participate in the political process. Members have lobbied 
tirelessly on issues including the rights of women, church-state 
separation, and foreign affairs. Hadassah's 300,000 members are voices 
heard on every issue, in every state.
  As a Jewish woman, Hadassah has been a major force in my life. 
Membership has prepared me well for public service. For nine decades, 
Hadassah women have been leaders in our communities, and the 
inspiration for our nation's Jewish youth. We have a great debt to pay 
to Henrietta Szold, and the hundreds of thousands of women who have 
helped make Hadassah the organization it is today.
  I congratulate my Hadassah sisters for a job well done, and done 
well.

                          ____________________