Institute of human relations award luncheon

Immigration, diversity focus of Murphy award luncheon 

The Chapter's Wednesday, Nov. 5 luncheon honoring Paul Murphy and Amegy Bank will be recognized with the AJC's Institute of Human Relations Award for their ongoing support for immigration reform, diversity and related efforts which like AJC, bring together people of diverse backgrounds, based on shared values and mutual understanding. Recently, Amegy assisted in funding AJC's emerging leaders seminar for Mexican-American leaders in Houston. Reservations for the luncheon may be made by calling AJC, 713 439 1202.

 

International Affairs

British, French and German diplomats will participate in a luncheon discussion with the Chapter's International Affairs Commission on the European Union on Monday, Dec. 8.  The diplomats will assess the direction of the EU after the French presidency ends in 2008 and their respective countries assessment of the new American administration.

 

Remembering the Victims of Hezbollah Bombings 25 Years Ago
AJC recalls the tragic events of October 23, 1983. It was the day 241 Americans were killed in a terrorist attack on the U.S. Marine barracks in Lebanon. The perpetrators? Hezbollah. Their backers? Iran. As Hezbollah continues its terrorist activity, with the steady support of Iran, the European Union, regrettably, still has been unable to agree among its member countries on designating Hezbollah as a terrorist group. The U.S. long ago put Hezbollah on its terrorist list.

Applauding Australia's Sanctions against Iran
In a letter to Foreign Minister Stephen Smith, AJC praised Australia for implementing new restrictions against Iranian banks Melli and Saderat and individuals involved in Iran's nuclear program. Australia's new measures ban commercial dealings with, and place travel restrictions on, 18 organizations and 20 individuals contributing to Iran's nuclear and missile programs. The European Union has implemented similar measures.


Praise for U.S. Financial Measures to Stop Iranian Nuclear Program
"Targeted financial measures have the potential to disrupt Iran's nuclear ambitions and affect the regime's decision-making," said AJC after the U.S. Treasury Department imposed new financial restrictions on the Export Development Bank of Iran (EDBI).  "We appreciate the unstinting American efforts on this front, spearheaded by Under Secretary of the Treasury Stuart Levey," said AJC. "These efforts demonstrate that Iran's nuclear enrichment program, pursued in defiance of the UN Security Council and the International Atomic Energy Agency, has an ever-increasing price."

Egyptian Diplomats Visit AJC to Discuss American Jewish Concerns
Twenty-five junior diplomats, led by Deputy Assistant Foreign Minister Amb. Mostafa El Remaly, visited AJC offices both in New York and Washington to learn more about the U.S.-Israel relationship and the Jewish community's role in American politics. The annual program is a key piece of AJC's relations with the Egyptian government. "We value the chance to help build a bridge of understanding between American Jews and young Egyptians," said David A. Harris. "Egypt is a critical partner for the United States and Israel, and an open dialogue today can help to lay the groundwork for future cooperation."