Cuomo and AJC Correspondence On BDS

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David Harris, AJC CEO

David Lobl
110 Years of Action
Thursday, January 21, 2016 5:41:26 PM
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AJC
110 years ago, a small group of visionaries with audacious ambition founded
AJC. Appalled and horrified by reports of pogroms in Tsarist RussiaJews
being killed simply because they were Jewsthese far-seeing leaders
launched AJC to advocate on their behalf.
In 2016, the lessons of that momentboth the power of action and the tragedy
of inactionare as relevant as ever. In this edition of AJC Impact, you will
read about AJCs ongoing efforts to build new ties between Israel and
countries like Indonesia, to combat resurgent anti-Semitism in Europe, and
more.
Tell Your Story
In what the Jerusalem Post labeled a big step in the growing interaction
between Israel and Muslim-majority states outside the Middle East, AJCs
Project Interchange brought a delegation of emergency relief experts from
India, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia to Israel. Indonesia has the largest Muslim
population in the world, but no diplomatic relations with the Jewish state. After
the delegation visited southern Israel, the region most affected by the 2014
Israel-Gaza conflict, the Indonesian participants were so moved by Israels
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AJC Global Forum

David Lobl
A Crisis on Campus?
Sunday, June 05, 2016 12:05:27 PM
Can't make it to the AJC Global Forum, June 5-7, in Washington, D.C.? We've
got the next best thing. Use this link, or click on the links below, to sign up to
receive a friendly reminder just prior to the live webcasts you don't want to
miss!
Jewish State
Monday, June 6, at 10:15 AM ET

Their fingers on the pulse of the nation, leading Israeli journalists ponder the
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Date:
David Harris, AJC Executive Director

David Lobl
A Wake-Up Call
Wednesday, December 30, 2015 11:04:06 AM
Dear Andrew,
The days are ticking by. The year is almost over, and another one about to begin. Yet, these
past twelve months will linger with me for some time.
2015 was a wake-up call.
The year began with the brutal rampage at Charlie Hebdo, followed by murderous attacks at
Jewish targets in Paris and Copenhagen and a terror wave in Israel. It ended with the
slaughter of 130 innocent souls enjoying food, sport, and music in the City of Light.
First they came for the journalists. Then they came for the Jews. Finally, they came for all of
us.
2015 was a wake-up call and a challenge. A challenge to all of us to rise up and meet the
moment facing us.
We can't afford not to.
AJC is working around the world and around the clock to meet the moment. Our global
advocacy architecture spans six continents. We understand the issues in depth, maintain
relationships with the world's key leaders, and are having a real impact on policy decisions.
But our vital work requires your sustained support. From now until December 31, generous
donors will match new gifts to AJC, up to $225,000.
It's not too late to meet the moment with us.
With heartfelt thanks,
David Harris
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Date:

David Lobl
A Wake-Up Call
Thursday, April 28, 2016 11:42:43 AM
AJC
Turn on the news and you'll hear it, see it, and feel it the immensity of the
challenges we face. Each challenge demands action from an organization with
global reach, influence, and the vision to spot and seize potential
opportunities. This is AJC.
The Berlin city government was on the verge of funding a refugee group run by
Hezbollah supporters... until AJC Berlin exposed the ties!
AJC discovered that the educational and artistic directors of an organization
called Refugee Club Impulse (RCI) are Hezbollah supporters and participate
in the annual anti-Israel Al-Quds rally. AJC Berlin engaged its contacts
journalists and political leadersand succeeded in blocking city funding for
RCI. The Federal Cultural Ministry also announced it was withdrawing
nomination of the group for a prize it was awarding for cultural work with
refugees. Not only did AJC Berlin prevent Europe's newest residents from
being indoctrinated by extremistswith taxpayer fundsbut it also drew
attention to the ongoing problem of Hezbollah activities in Europe.
Read More: AJC CEO David Harris's latest blogEurope: Do the Right Thing
on Hezbollah
Three years ago, AJC's Africa Institute led a Project Interchange trip to Israel
for prominent businessmen from west Africa. Upon returning home, one
participant from Burkina Faso was so impressed by the experience that he
TESTIMONY TO THE PLATFORM DRAFTING COMMITTEE

OF THE REPUBLICAN PARTY
May 27, 2016
AJC, founded in 1906, is the Jewish communitys global advocacy organization. Its mission is to
enhance the security and well-being of the Jewish people and Israel, and to advance human
rights and democratic values around the world. In addition to its New York headquarters and its
Office of Government and International Affairs in Washington, D.C., AJC has 22 U.S. regional
offices, 10 overseas posts, and more than 30 partnerships with Jewish communities and
institutions worldwide.
AJCs platform proposals reflect our priorities of combating global anti-Semitism and advancing
universal values of tolerance and pluralism, promoting Israels security and its place in the
community of nations, thwarting Irans nuclear ambitions and exposing its support for terror,
and countering the spread of radicalism and extremism throughout the world. Our priorities are
underpinned by a profound belief that we must work to ensure the strong leadership of the
United States in global affairs as the best protection for our nations interests, the preservation
and promulgation of democratic values and human dignity, and the security of our closest allies.
We respectfully urge the Platform Drafting Committee to incorporate the following language as
planks of the Republican Party Platform.
*
Israel
Our party reaffirms Americas special relationship and strong alliance with Israel, based on the
unshakable foundation of shared values and goals. These include dedication to democratic
principles, the rule of law, religious pluralism, and individual liberty; commitment to achieving
an enduring regional peace and the fulfillment of the national aspirations and security needs of
the Jewish and Palestinian peoples; and common strategic objectives. No nation in the world
cooperates more fully and reliably with the United States than the State of Israel in strategic
planning, intelligence sharing, military training and technological developmentcooperation
that will continue and grow under our Administration. It is no coincidence that the
antidemocratic forces in the world that demonize Israel also view the United States as their
enemy. Israel remains a beacon of democracy, tolerance and political enfranchisement in the
Middle East.
Face-to-face negotiations are the only practical path for creating a viable Palestinian state
existing side-by-side in peace and security with democratic Israel. We decry Palestinian
President Mahmoud Abbass repudiation of negotiations in favor of unilaterally seeking
recognition of Palestinian statehood in the United Nations, or otherwise promoting an
AJC 2016 Platform Committee Statement
Page |2
internationally imposed solution. Similarly, we reject proposed efforts by any individual

nationaside from those directly affected by the conflictthat seek a short-cut around direct,
bilateral negotiations to resolve final status issues between the Israelis and Palestinians. Such
efforts impede rather than advance a two-state solution. We support the establishment, through
direct negotiations with Israel, of a democratic, non-militarized Palestinian state; alternative
routes to statehood risk creating a failed statea danger to Israel, the region and beyond.
Incitement to violenceubiquitous in Palestinian society, textbooks, media and political
rhetoricis antithetical to the goal of achieving a two-state solution. The escalation in
Palestinian violence since September 2015 is a direct result of such incitement.
The boycott, sanctions and divestment (BDS) movement, active on a growing number of
American college campuses, demonizes and discriminates against Israel through a campaign of
misleading and offensive criticism that too often crosses the line into outright anti-Semitism.
The BDS movement attempts to inhibit academic exchange with Israeli institutions, an affront to
academic freedom, as well as seeking to discourage private and public sector business with or
investment in Israeli companies. The EU recently issued guidelines providing for special labeling
of Israeli products manufactured in the West Bank and other areas, singling out Israel and setting
the stage for boycott. Our party opposes effortsin the United States and other countriesto
exert undue economic pressure on Israel in lieu of constructive efforts to reach a two-state
solution through direct negotiations between the parties, and will continue to assure that
opposition to BDS remains a principal U.S. trade objective. Further, we reaffirm the authority of
state and local government entities to invest in Israel and Israeli companies and likewise refuse
to invest in companies that engage in BDS.
We recognize the persistent danger to Israel from terrorist forces such as Hamas and
Hezbollahand the potentially existential threat posed by Iran should it ultimately realize its
nuclear ambitionsand reassert Americas unwavering commitment to the safety and security of
Israel, the nation-state of the Jewish people. We resoundingly affirm Israels right to defend itself
against rocket attacks and other attacks against its people, and declare our resolve to defend that
right, domestically and internationally, if it is called into question. Under our Administration, our
country will continue to ensure that Israel retains the qualitative military advantage necessary for
its security. Thus, the United States will fully meet its commitments to provide military
assistance to Israel, and will continue to support scientific research and other non-military
programs of shared interest. We support the renewal of a ten-year memorandum of
understanding (MOU) with Israel to provide much-needed and mutually beneficial military
assistance. In addition, the United States will continue its strategic cooperation with Israel,
including support for the development of anti-missile systems such as Iron Dome, Arrow,
Davids Sling, and other sophisticated defensive weaponry that significantly contributes to U.S.
and Israeli security.
Iran
The United States played a critical role in the negotiations culminating in the Joint
Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), reached on July 14, 2015, by the P5+1 and Iran. The
JCPOA undergirds the long-stranding premise that we cannot and will not accept a nuclear Iran.
Page |3
In the aftermath of the JCPOA, Iran has maintained its aggressive posture toward its neighbors
and has taken alarmingly defiant steps. Since October 2015, Iran has conducted ballistic missile
tests in violation of Security Council resolutions. We believe that the international community
including the United Statesmust marshal the mechanisms and political will to enforce the
JCPOAs restrictions, intrusively monitor Iranian behavior, and reimpose sanctions in the event
of any violations. The next U.S. administration must respond appropriately to Iranian military
provocations; at a minimum, new missile-related sanctions should be imposed. In addition, we
support the renewal of the Iran Sanctions Act, which expires at the end of 2016, to safeguard our
ability to snap back sanctions should the JCPOA be violated.
While the JCPOA seeks to address Irans threatening nuclear ambition, it does not address other
unacceptable Iranian policies: repeated calls for the annihilation of Israel; support for terrorist
organizations such as Hamas and Hezbollah; active assistance to the Assad regime in its
murderous campaign against the Syrian people; expansionist interference in the internal affairs of
other countries; and pervasive human rights abuses, including arbitrary arrests and detentions,
torture and cruel and inhuman punishment, unfair trials, executions, assassinations, and religious
and other forms of persecution. The United States will continue to expose and condemn, in every
appropriate medium and forum, human rights violations in Iran, and to hold those responsible for
such violations to account.
The United States will uphold its non-nuclear sanctions against Iran until the latter
fundamentally changes its behavior. Further, our party will continue to push for legislative and
diplomatic means to address Irans support for international terrorism, human rights violations,
and regional aggression. Additionally, our party calls on those in the international community to
be clear that the JCPOA does not represent a return to business as usual with Iran.
International Engagement
We believe that American global leadership and international engagement are essential to the
protection of democracy and human dignity, advance our national interest, and contribute to
global security and stability. While the United States cannot be the worlds policeman, and has
learned more than once the danger of overseas quagmires, at the same time history has amply
shown that when the U.S. withdraws, or is perceived to retreat, from the global stage, dangerous
vacuums are created, and others, both state and non-state actors, seek to fill them, while pursuing
goals antithetical to our own. Thus, our nation must be prepared to use all the tools of statecraft
as wisely and judiciously as possible, depending on the circumstances, to project leadership,
vision, strength, and humanitarianism.
It is incumbent on the United States to exert leadership in confronting terror and extremism, and
extending freedom, democracy, and opportunity across the globe. Our party reaffirms that any
deliberate attack against civilians as a means to advance political goals or certain beliefs is an act
of terrorism, regardless of cause or grievance. We categorically reject the notion that political
circumstances or root causes ever justify the deliberate taking of innocent life.
The rise of ISIS and other extremist Islamist movements across the Middle East and around the
world poses a profound threat to regional stability and the security of U.S. allies, particularly
Israel. We are also mindful of the ongoing brutal assaults on Yazidis and other religious
Page |4
minorities in ISIS-controlled territory, and are committed to ensuring an appropriately robust

international response.
Countering ISIS is an international priority, and we support the ongoing partnership with a broad
coalition of European nations, like-minded Sunni states, Australia, and South Korea. The next
administration will work to broaden that coalition, urging a far greater commitment of forces by
Turkey and the Gulf Arab states as well as more consistent and effective Iraqi military
involvement. Further, we are dedicated to sealing the Turkish border against ISIS recruits and
resupply, providing much-needed aid to the beleaguered and reliable Peshmerga fighters and, of
course, delivering necessary humanitarian relief to persecuted minorities in the affected
territories and seeking refuge abroad.
While countering this urgent threat is a priority for our party, we recognize that any campaign
against terrorism and the extremist ideologies underlying it must be waged in a manner
consistent with core democratic values and human rights norms. Doing otherwise would grant
the terrorists precisely what they want, i.e., weakening the very foundations of democracy.
Effective and strong American leadership in the region hinges on the strength of our alliances.
The next administration will support long-standing U.S. allies in the region such as Egypt,
Jordan, U.A.E., and Bahrain in their quest to ensure regional stability. We also strongly support,
and expect, continued adherence to the Egyptian and Jordanian peace treaties with Israel,
foundation stones of Middle East peace.
The threats posed by radical Islam and extremist political parties have disproportionately
affected Europe in ways that challenge the values undergirding European democracies. Our party
condemns the recent attacks in Paris and Brussels and commits to countering the threat of global
terror jointly with our European allies. As we strengthen our counter-terrorism cooperation with
the EU, we urge the EU to erase the false distinction between the Iranian-backed terrorist group
Hezbollahs military and other wings, and fully designate Hezbollah as a terrorist organization.
Our party is deeply concerned about the rise of anti-Semitism that is especially prevalent in
Europe. Anti-Semitisms surge is not just a Jewish issue; it challenges universal interests and
values. Our party recognizes the strong stands taken against this menace by key European
leaders, and calls on all European governments to urgently take the necessary steps to assure the
security of Jewish institutions and communities, invest in education that imparts European
values, take on purveyors of anti-Semitism on the Internet and in social media, and recognize
that vilification of Israel too often is a cover for expressions of anti-Semitism. Similarly, we
support efforts to press Eastern European governments to address Holocaust-related concerns
such as communal restitution and the effective resolution of unmet claims by Holocaust
survivors and their heirs.
As violence, instability, and lack of opportunity drive many to flee the Middle East and other
troubled regions, waves of migrants have arrived in Europe. While European governments
remain at loggerheads about how to manage the more than one million migrants in a fashion
consonant with their humanitarian obligationsand with more arriving each daythe security
dimension of the migration surge, as well as the domestic backlash against it, cannot be ignored.
Page |5
Many of the migrants arriving in Europe come from non-democratic countries where values of
tolerance and equality are not enshrined and prejudice is commonplace. The next administration
will work with our European partners to promote peaceful and successful integration of migrants,
with a focus on the inculcation of Western values and universal human rights and a priority on
ensuring safety and security.
At this critical juncture, it is more important than ever that we foster transatlantic cooperation in
political and economic spheres, reinforce our ties with the European Union, and reaffirm our
commitment to the transatlantic alliance. We support expansion of the Visa Waiver Program,
with appropriate security-related safeguards, to include Americas closest allies in Central and
Eastern Europe.
While the process has not been without its challenges, the growth of democracy in Eastern
Europe, the former Soviet Union, and Latin America has built a foundation for individual
liberties in these countries. Human rights and democracy are integrally linkeddemocratic
institutions are the best way to ensure respect for human rights. The next administration will
actively support continued growth of liberty and democracy and protection of universal human
rights, and oppose any infringement on the rights and privileges of minorities across the globe.
As internal political division complicates American immigration policy and border security
concerns, we are mindful that we can mitigate many of those concerns by addressing the root
causes of migration in Latin America. It is imperative that we increase cooperation with Latin
American governments, civil society and the private sector to advance economic development
and integration, and to promote human rights. Additionally, we are increasingly concerned by
Irans presence and activity in the regionas well as the presence of its proxy Hezbollah and
other radical state and non-state actorsand will seek to address this challenge while working to
enhance the well-being of the Americas.
It is similarly vital that we remain committed to enhanced U.S. engagement in Asia, maintaining
strong relationships with friends and allies, and furthering our relationships with democratic
partners, such as Japan and India, to create a stable and prosperous region. We will continue to
strengthen economic and strategic ties with the emerging powers of Asia, and promote political
stability and universal human rights.
Free-trade agreements stimulate international economic integration and development, promote
stability and strategic interdependence, and serve as a vehicle to advance U.S. foreign policy
priorities. For these reasons, we support the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), which will be the
largest trade pact in history, as well as the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership
(TTIP).
The next administration will intensify U.S. engagement with Africa. As a humanitarian priority,
we support assistance programs (such as the Millennium Challenge Account) designed to reduce
poverty, encourage good governance and pluralism, and promote and protect human rights. We
also support engagement in conflict resolution and ongoing peacekeeping efforts. With a nonideological approach to family planning and womens rights, we are committed to providing
substantial assistance to confront crippling pandemics such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, and
Page |6
tuberculosis.
Through multilateral institutions such as NATO and the UN, the United States will continue to
work with allies to confront the challenges of terrorism, nuclear proliferation and unstable
regimes; humanitarian emergencies and refugee flows; and other crises. As such, we support full
funding to international institutions, consistent with international treaties, U.S. obligations, and
law.
Even as we recognize the UNs flaws and work to highlight and redress them, participation in the
UN affords the U.S. indispensable opportunities to work with the international community to
advance our interests and those of like-minded nations. The U.S. plays an important role in
supporting Israel in this international body that regularly singles out Israel for censure, even as
many of the worlds most egregious human rights abusers are untouched. We will use our
position as a permanent member of the UN Security Council to veto resolutions condemning
Israel and subjecting it to standards not applied to any other country. Similarly, in accordance
with longstanding U.S. law and treaty obligations, we will take forceful steps to discourage any
UN entity from granting full membership to a non-state entity.
We are committed to work for the full integration of Israel in the United Nations and other
international forums. Israel, a UN member since 1949, has never been elected to the UN Security
Council, despite the fact that it is a democratic island of law and stability in a volatile region. Our
administration will support Israels candidacy for a rotating seat on the UN Security Council.
While we recognize the hard choices that confront us at this challenging time, the United States
mustnow more than evertake the steps necessary to play its role as an international leader in
confronting crucial global concerns. Our party supports a robust International Affairs budget that
provides full funding of foreign aid. It is important to remember that the International Affairs
budget comprises a scant 1 percent of the federal budget.
Immigration
National conflict over immigration undermines Americas strength and our countrys
commitment to democratic and humanitarian values. Upholding the rights of immigrants is vital
to a strong America. Our party favors fair and prudent immigration policies that benefit the
United States economically and, at the same time, respect human dignity, maintain due process,
and uphold timeless American values. Our party therefore supports comprehensive immigration
reform that will, at the same time, increase our national security through enhanced border
security and enforcement that is both effective and humane. Moreover, we regard detention of
persons held pending deportationparticularly the practice of family detentionas alternatives
to be pursued only when there is flight risk or threat to national security.
We need to reform our visa, border and admissions systems to maintain control over our borders.
However, in doing so, we cannot contravene our national legacy as a haven for those fleeing
persecution. In this light, refugee admissions should be set at levels that properly balance
resettlement capacity and humanitarian need, and programs for refugee protection and
resettlement should be adequately funded. Knowing of the extensive security measures already
in place, we oppose proposals that aim to halt U.S. resettlement efforts, make application for
Page |7
asylum unduly onerous, or restrict funding for any groups of refugees. Similarly, we oppose
arbitrary caps on the number of asylees and parolees who can apply for permanent resident status
in the United States each year.
We support an earned pathway to citizenship for the millions of law-abiding, working people
who have lived in the United States for a substantial period of time and want to become
contributing, productive, full members of American society. In addition, our party strongly
supports the DREAM Act, which would provide a path to legal status for undocumented
individuals brought to the United States as children, enabling them to attend college with
eligibility for in-state tuition or to join the armed forces.
Voting Rights
In 2013, the United States Supreme Court struck down a key provision of the Voting Rights Act
of 1965 (VRA) pursuant to which states and local jurisdictions were required to obtain
preclearance from the Department of Justice or the courts before any voting change could take
effect. Without a Voting Rights Act that is fully in effect, including preclearance provisions,
voters can seek judicial intervention only after encountering discriminatory voter restrictions
often too late to undo or prevent their disenfranchisement.
Our party strongly believes that Congressas it first did in 1965, and for every reauthorization
of the VRA since thenmust come together to protect the right to vote of all Americans by
passing legislation that will restore the full protections of the Voting Rights Act in a fashion
consistent with the concerns raised by the high court in its 2013 decision. The next
administration will make it a priority to work with Congress toward passage of such a bill.
Energy
We acknowledge the considerable progress achieved by the United States toward greater energy
independence and security, and must ensure that this progress, vital to our nations highest
interests, continues. A comprehensive U.S. energy policy is crucial to protecting Americas
national security, environment and economic well-being. Our party is committed to a
multifaceted energy plan that would diversify fuel and technology options so as to include both
renewable and fossil fuels, adopt more stringent fuel economy standards, and increase
investment in public transportation.
Our party welcomes and supports further energy cooperation with Canada and Mexico as a way
to reduce dependence on oil from hostile and unstable nations, as well as cement North
American interdependence and partnership. We welcome similar cooperation with other
allies. Domestic production of oil and natural gas, including through hydraulic fracturing and
offshore drilling, further ensures American energy security; such development must be
accompanied by robust environmental safeguards, oversight and regulation, as well as an ethos
of corporate responsibility.
TESTIMONY TO THE PLATFORM DRAFTING COMMITTEE

OF THE DEMOCRATICPARTY
May 27, 2016
AJC, founded in 1906, is the Jewish communitys global advocacy organization. Its mission is to
enhance the security and well-being of the Jewish people and Israel, and to advance human
rights and democratic values around the world. In addition to its New York headquarters and its
Office of Government and International Affairs in Washington, D.C., AJC has 22 U.S. regional
offices, 10 overseas posts, and more than 30 partnerships with Jewish communities and
institutions worldwide.
AJCs platform proposals reflect our priorities of combating global anti-Semitism and advancing
universal values of tolerance and pluralism, promoting Israels security and its place in the
community of nations, thwarting Irans nuclear ambitions and exposing its support for terror,
and countering the spread of radicalism and extremism throughout the world. Our priorities are
underpinned by a profound belief that we must work to ensure the strong leadership of the
United States in global affairs as the best protection for our nations interests, the preservation
and promulgation of democratic values and human dignity, and the security of our closest allies.
We respectfully urge the Platform Drafting Committee to incorporate the following language as
planks of the Democratic Party Platform.
*
Israel
Our party reaffirms Americas special relationship and strong alliance with Israel, based on the
unshakable foundation of shared values and goals. These include dedication to democratic
principles, the rule of law, religious pluralism, and individual liberty; commitment to achieving
an enduring regional peace and the fulfillment of the national aspirations and security needs of
the Jewish and Palestinian peoples; and common strategic objectives. No nation in the world
cooperates more fully and reliably with the United States than the State of Israel in strategic
planning, intelligence sharing, military training and technological developmentcooperation
that will continue and grow under our Administration. It is no coincidence that the
antidemocratic forces in the world that demonize Israel also view the United States as their
enemy. Israel remains a beacon of democracy, tolerance and political enfranchisement in the
Middle East.
Face-to-face negotiations are the only practical path for creating a viable Palestinian state
existing side-by-side in peace and security with democratic Israel. We decry Palestinian
President Mahmoud Abbass repudiation of negotiations in favor of unilaterally seeking
recognition of Palestinian statehood in the United Nations, or otherwise promoting an
Page |2
internationally imposed solution. Similarly, we reject proposed efforts by any individual

nationaside from those directly affected by the conflictthat seek a short-cut around direct,
bilateral negotiations to resolve final status issues between the Israelis and Palestinians. Such
efforts impede rather than advance a two-state solution. We support the establishment, through
direct negotiations with Israel, of a democratic, non-militarized Palestinian state; alternative
routes to statehood risk creating a failed statea danger to Israel, the region and beyond.
Incitement to violenceubiquitous in Palestinian society, textbooks, media and political
rhetoricis antithetical to the goal of achieving a two-state solution. The escalation in
Palestinian violence since September 2015 is a direct result of such incitement.
The boycott, sanctions and divestment (BDS) movement, active on a growing number of
American college campuses, demonizes and discriminates against Israel through a campaign of
misleading and offensive criticism that too often crosses the line into outright anti-Semitism.
The BDS movement attempts to inhibit academic exchange with Israeli institutions, an affront to
academic freedom, as well as seeking to discourage private and public sector business with or
investment in Israeli companies. The EU recently issued guidelines providing for special labeling
of Israeli products manufactured in the West Bank and other areas, singling out Israel and setting
the stage for boycott. Our party opposes effortsin the United States and other countriesto
exert undue economic pressure on Israel in lieu of constructive efforts to reach a two-state
solution through direct negotiations between the parties, and will continue to assure that
opposition to BDS remains a principal U.S. trade objective. Further, we reaffirm the authority of
state and local government entities to invest in Israel and Israeli companies and likewise refuse
to invest in companies that engage in BDS.
We recognize the persistent danger to Israel from terrorist forces such as Hamas and
Hezbollahand the potentially existential threat posed by Iran should it ultimately realize its
nuclear ambitionsand reassert Americas unwavering commitment to the safety and security of
Israel, the nation-state of the Jewish people. We resoundingly affirm Israels right to defend itself
against rocket attacks and other attacks against its people, and declare our resolve to defend that
right, domestically and internationally, if it is called into question. Under our Administration, our
country will continue to ensure that Israel retains the qualitative military advantage necessary for
its security. Thus, the United States will fully meet its commitments to provide military
assistance to Israel, and will continue to support scientific research and other non-military
programs of shared interest. We support the renewal of a ten-year memorandum of
understanding (MOU) with Israel to provide much-needed and mutually beneficial military
assistance. In addition, the United States will continue its strategic cooperation with Israel,
including support for the development of anti-missile systems such as Iron Dome, Arrow,
Davids Sling, and other sophisticated defensive weaponry that significantly contributes to U.S.
and Israeli security.
Iran
The United States played a critical role in the negotiations culminating in the Joint
Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), reached on July 14, 2015, by the P5+1 and Iran. The
JCPOA undergirds the long-stranding premise that we cannot and will not accept a nuclear Iran.
Page |3
In the aftermath of the JCPOA, Iran has maintained its aggressive posture toward its neighbors
and has taken alarmingly defiant steps. Since October 2015, Iran has conducted ballistic missile
tests in violation of Security Council resolutions. We believe that the international community
including the United Statesmust marshal the mechanisms and political will to enforce the
JCPOAs restrictions, intrusively monitor Iranian behavior, and reimpose sanctions in the event
of any violations. The next U.S. administration must respond appropriately to Iranian military
provocations; at a minimum, new missile-related sanctions should be imposed. In addition, we
support the renewal of the Iran Sanctions Act, which expires at the end of 2016, to safeguard our
ability to snap back sanctions should the JCPOA be violated.
While the JCPOA seeks to address Irans threatening nuclear ambition, it does not address other
unacceptable Iranian policies: repeated calls for the annihilation of Israel; support for terrorist
organizations such as Hamas and Hezbollah; active assistance to the Assad regime in its
murderous campaign against the Syrian people; expansionist interference in the internal affairs of
other countries; and pervasive human rights abuses, including arbitrary arrests and detentions,
torture and cruel and inhuman punishment, unfair trials, executions, assassinations, and religious
and other forms of persecution. The United States will continue to expose and condemn, in every
appropriate medium and forum, human rights violations in Iran, and to hold those responsible for
such violations to account.
The United States will uphold its non-nuclear sanctions against Iran until the latter
fundamentally changes its behavior. Further, our party will continue to push for legislative and
diplomatic means to address Irans support for international terrorism, human rights violations,
and regional aggression. Additionally, our party calls on those in the international community to
be clear that the JCPOA does not represent a return to business as usual with Iran.
International Engagement
We believe that American global leadership and international engagement are essential to the
protection of democracy and human dignity, advance our national interest, and contribute to
global security and stability. While the United States cannot be the worlds policeman, and has
learned more than once the danger of overseas quagmires, at the same time history has amply
shown that when the U.S. withdraws, or is perceived to retreat, from the global stage, dangerous
vacuums are created, and others, both state and non-state actors, seek to fill them, while pursuing
goals antithetical to our own. Thus, our nation must be prepared to use all the tools of statecraft
as wisely and judiciously as possible, depending on the circumstances, to project leadership,
vision, strength, and humanitarianism.
It is incumbent on the United States to exert leadership in confronting terror and extremism, and
extending freedom, democracy, and opportunity across the globe. Our party reaffirms that any
deliberate attack against civilians as a means to advance political goals or certain beliefs is an act
of terrorism, regardless of cause or grievance. We categorically reject the notion that political
circumstances or root causes ever justify the deliberate taking of innocent life.
The rise of ISIS and other extremist Islamist movements across the Middle East and around the
world poses a profound threat to regional stability and the security of U.S. allies, particularly
Israel. We are also mindful of the ongoing brutal assaults on Yazidis and other religious
Page |4
minorities in ISIS-controlled territory, and are committed to ensuring an appropriately robust

international response.
Countering ISIS is an international priority, and we support the ongoing partnership with a broad
coalition of European nations, like-minded Sunni states, Australia, and South Korea. The next
administration will work to broaden that coalition, urging a far greater commitment of forces by
Turkey and the Gulf Arab states as well as more consistent and effective Iraqi military
involvement. Further, we are dedicated to sealing the Turkish border against ISIS recruits and
resupply, providing much-needed aid to the beleaguered and reliable Peshmerga fighters and, of
course, delivering necessary humanitarian relief to persecuted minorities in the affected
territories and seeking refuge abroad.
While countering this urgent threat is a priority for our party, we recognize that any campaign
against terrorism and the extremist ideologies underlying it must be waged in a manner
consistent with core democratic values and human rights norms. Doing otherwise would grant
the terrorists precisely what they want, i.e., weakening the very foundations of democracy.
Effective and strong American leadership in the region hinges on the strength of our alliances.
The next administration will support long-standing U.S. allies in the region such as Egypt,
Jordan, U.A.E., and Bahrain in their quest to ensure regional stability. We also strongly support,
and expect, continued adherence to the Egyptian and Jordanian peace treaties with Israel,
foundation stones of Middle East peace.
The threats posed by radical Islam and extremist political parties have disproportionately
affected Europe in ways that challenge the values undergirding European democracies. Our party
condemns the recent attacks in Paris and Brussels and commits to countering the threat of global
terror jointly with our European allies. As we strengthen our counter-terrorism cooperation with
the EU, we urge the EU to erase the false distinction between the Iranian-backed terrorist group
Hezbollahs military and other wings, and fully designate Hezbollah as a terrorist organization.
Our party is deeply concerned about the rise of anti-Semitism that is especially prevalent in
Europe. Anti-Semitisms surge is not just a Jewish issue; it challenges universal interests and
values. Our party recognizes the strong stands taken against this menace by key European
leaders, and calls on all European governments to urgently take the necessary steps to assure the
security of Jewish institutions and communities, invest in education that imparts European
values, take on purveyors of anti-Semitism on the Internet and in social media, and recognize
that vilification of Israel too often is a cover for expressions of anti-Semitism. Similarly, we
support efforts to press Eastern European governments to address Holocaust-related concerns
such as communal restitution and the effective resolution of unmet claims by Holocaust
survivors and their heirs.
As violence, instability, and lack of opportunity drive many to flee the Middle East and other
troubled regions, waves of migrants have arrived in Europe. While European governments
remain at loggerheads about how to manage the more than one million migrants in a fashion
consonant with their humanitarian obligationsand with more arriving each daythe security
dimension of the migration surge, as well as the domestic backlash against it, cannot be ignored.
Page |5
Many of the migrants arriving in Europe come from non-democratic countries where values of
tolerance and equality are not enshrined and prejudice is commonplace. The next administration
will work with our European partners to promote peaceful and successful integration of migrants,
with a focus on the inculcation of Western values and universal human rights and a priority on
ensuring safety and security.
At this critical juncture, it is more important than ever that we foster transatlantic cooperation in
political and economic spheres, reinforce our ties with the European Union, and reaffirm our
commitment to the transatlantic alliance. We support expansion of the Visa Waiver Program,
with appropriate security-related safeguards, to include Americas closest allies in Central and
Eastern Europe.
While the process has not been without its challenges, the growth of democracy in Eastern
Europe, the former Soviet Union, and Latin America has built a foundation for individual
liberties in these countries. Human rights and democracy are integrally linkeddemocratic
institutions are the best way to ensure respect for human rights. The next administration will
actively support continued growth of liberty and democracy and protection of universal human
rights, and oppose any infringement on the rights and privileges of minorities across the globe.
As internal political division complicates American immigration policy and border security
concerns, we are mindful that we can mitigate many of those concerns by addressing the root
causes of migration in Latin America. It is imperative that we increase cooperation with Latin
American governments, civil society and the private sector to advance economic development
and integration, and to promote human rights. Additionally, we are increasingly concerned by
Irans presence and activity in the regionas well as the presence of its proxy Hezbollah and
other radical state and non-state actorsand will seek to address this challenge while working to
enhance the well-being of the Americas.
It is similarly vital that we remain committed to enhanced U.S. engagement in Asia, maintaining
strong relationships with friends and allies, and furthering our relationships with democratic
partners, such as Japan and India, to create a stable and prosperous region. We will continue to
strengthen economic and strategic ties with the emerging powers of Asia, and promote political
stability and universal human rights.
Free-trade agreements stimulate international economic integration and development, promote
stability and strategic interdependence, and serve as a vehicle to advance U.S. foreign policy
priorities. For these reasons, we support the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), which will be the
largest trade pact in history, as well as the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership
(TTIP).
The next administration will intensify U.S. engagement with Africa. As a humanitarian priority,
we support assistance programs (such as the Millennium Challenge Account) designed to reduce
poverty, encourage good governance and pluralism, and promote and protect human rights. We
also support engagement in conflict resolution and ongoing peacekeeping efforts. With a nonideological approach to family planning and womens rights, we are committed to providing
substantial assistance to confront crippling pandemics such as HIV/AIDS, malaria, and
Page |6
tuberculosis.
Through multilateral institutions such as NATO and the UN, the United States will continue to
work with allies to confront the challenges of terrorism, nuclear proliferation and unstable
regimes; humanitarian emergencies and refugee flows; and other crises. As such, we support full
funding to international institutions, consistent with international treaties, U.S. obligations, and
law.
Even as we recognize the UNs flaws and work to highlight and redress them, participation in the
UN affords the U.S. indispensable opportunities to work with the international community to
advance our interests and those of like-minded nations. The U.S. plays an important role in
supporting Israel in this international body that regularly singles out Israel for censure, even as
many of the worlds most egregious human rights abusers are untouched. We will use our
position as a permanent member of the UN Security Council to veto resolutions condemning
Israel and subjecting it to standards not applied to any other country. Similarly, in accordance
with longstanding U.S. law and treaty obligations, we will take forceful steps to discourage any
UN entity from granting full membership to a non-state entity.
We are committed to work for the full integration of Israel in the United Nations and other
international forums. Israel, a UN member since 1949, has never been elected to the UN Security
Council, despite the fact that it is a democratic island of law and stability in a volatile region. Our
administration will support Israels candidacy for a rotating seat on the UN Security Council.
While we recognize the hard choices that confront us at this challenging time, the United States
mustnow more than evertake the steps necessary to play its role as an international leader in
confronting crucial global concerns. Our party supports a robust International Affairs budget that
provides full funding of foreign aid. It is important to remember that the International Affairs
budget comprises a scant 1 percent of the federal budget.
Immigration
National conflict over immigration undermines Americas strength and our countrys
commitment to democratic and humanitarian values. Upholding the rights of immigrants is vital
to a strong America. Our party favors fair and prudent immigration policies that benefit the
United States economically and, at the same time, respect human dignity, maintain due process,
and uphold timeless American values. Our party therefore supports comprehensive immigration
reform that will, at the same time, increase our national security through enhanced border
security and enforcement that is both effective and humane. Moreover, we regard detention of
persons held pending deportationparticularly the practice of family detentionas alternatives
to be pursued only when there is flight risk or threat to national security.
We need to reform our visa, border and admissions systems to maintain control over our borders.
However, in doing so, we cannot contravene our national legacy as a haven for those fleeing
persecution. In this light, refugee admissions should be set at levels that properly balance
resettlement capacity and humanitarian need, and programs for refugee protection and
resettlement should be adequately funded. Knowing of the extensive security measures already
in place, we oppose proposals that aim to halt U.S. resettlement efforts, make application for
Page |7
asylum unduly onerous, or restrict funding for any groups of refugees. Similarly, we oppose
arbitrary caps on the number of asylees and parolees who can apply for permanent resident status
in the United States each year.
We support an earned pathway to citizenship for the millions of law-abiding, working people
who have lived in the United States for a substantial period of time and want to become
contributing, productive, full members of American society. In addition, our party strongly
supports the DREAM Act, which would provide a path to legal status for undocumented
individuals brought to the United States as children, enabling them to attend college with
eligibility for in-state tuition or to join the armed forces.
Voting Rights
In 2013, the United States Supreme Court struck down a key provision of the Voting Rights Act
of 1965 (VRA) pursuant to which states and local jurisdictions were required to obtain
preclearance from the Department of Justice or the courts before any voting change could take
effect. Without a Voting Rights Act that is fully in effect, including preclearance provisions,
voters can seek judicial intervention only after encountering discriminatory voter restrictions
often too late to undo or prevent their disenfranchisement.
Our party strongly believes that Congressas it first did in 1965, and for every reauthorization
of the VRA since thenmust come together to protect the right to vote of all Americans by
passing legislation that will restore the full protections of the Voting Rights Act in a fashion
consistent with the concerns raised by the high court in its 2013 decision. The next
administration will make it a priority to work with Congress toward passage of such a bill.
Energy
We acknowledge the considerable progress achieved by the United States toward greater energy
independence and security, and must ensure that this progress, vital to our nations highest
interests, continues. A comprehensive U.S. energy policy is crucial to protecting Americas
national security, environment and economic well-being. Our party is committed to a
multifaceted energy plan that would diversify fuel and technology options so as to include both
renewable and fossil fuels, adopt more stringent fuel economy standards, and increase
investment in public transportation.
Our party welcomes and supports further energy cooperation with Canada and Mexico as a way
to reduce dependence on oil from hostile and unstable nations, as well as cement North
American interdependence and partnership. We welcome similar cooperation with other
allies. Domestic production of oil and natural gas, including through hydraulic fracturing and
offshore drilling, further ensures American energy security; such development must be
accompanied by robust environmental safeguards, oversight and regulation, as well as an ethos
of corporate responsibility.
From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:
Importance:
Michael Schmidt
David Lobl
Alex Bronzo
AJC Governors United: 50 States Against BDS
Thursday, May 12, 2016 12:21:41 PM
image005.jpg
image001.jpg
Governor Cuomo.pdf
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Dear David,
Following our recent conversations with you, please forward to Governor Cuomo the attached
letter from AJC CEO David Harris formally inviting Governor Cuomo to be first Governors to
join AJC in our Governors United initiative (modeled on our highly successful Mayors United
Against Anti-Semitism) and to join us at our Global Forum when we will launch this effort in
Washington DC on Tuesday, June 7th. As we discussed, we would welcome Governor Cuomo
briefly speaking at the Global Forum and, in AJCs bi-partisan tradition and our non-partisan
status, we anticipate that there will also be a prominent Republican elected official who will
also be at this same session.
We would be grateful if you might be able to get back to me at your very earliest convenience
so that we can make appropriate arrangements with you and the Governors office.
Best,
--Michael Schmidt
Director, AJC NY
212-891-1445
schmidtm@ajc.org
www.ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/ajcny
twitter.com/ajcglobal
GloFo for signature
Click here to watch video highlights from the AJC Global Forum 2015
From:
To:
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Attachments:
Scott Richman
David Lobl
AJC Live - BDS
Friday, June 17, 2016 9:33:12 AM
image001.jpg
David,
A belated thank you to you and Governor Cuomo both for the Executive Order Against BDS and for
co-chairing the new AJC initiative known as Governors Against BDS. I do a bi-weekly, one-hour
radio show on WVOX 1460 AM, a Westchester-based radio station. It is called AJC Live. After
reading Sieradskis attack on Governor Cuomo in this past Mondays Times, I have decided to devote
my Wednesday, June 29th show to BDS. I will involve our Associate Executive Vice President who is
spearheading our anti-BDS initiative, as well as our General Counsel, who will clearly debunk what
Sieradski wrote. I am wondering if the Governor might be available to come on for just a few
minutes to make a statement about why he opposes BDS and penned the Executive Order. He can
do this by phone from anywhere. The show airs live from 11-12, but I will not start until about 11:08
because of commercials and news. My preference would be for him to come on at the end, once it
is all set up, which would mean 11:45, but I will make it work at any time, of course. While the
listening area is most of Westchester and some of the Bronx, the station can be streamed live from
anywhere in the world on www.wvox.com and has a good following well beyond this catchment
area. In addition, I podcast the shows and push them out through e-mail and social media. Given the
AJC network around the world, the shows get replayed many times. Might Governor Cuomo be
available for this brief time on Wednesday, June 29th between 11:08 a.m. and 12 p.m., preferably
around 11:45 a.m.?
Thanks.
n Scott
Scott Richman
Regional Director
AJC Westchester/Fairfield
914-948-5585, x22
RichmanS@AJC.org
www.AJC.org/WestFair
Facebook - www.facebook.com/ajcwestchester (like us!)
Twitter - @AJCGlobal (follow us!)
AJC Live Radio Show Listen to the latest show or past shows at this link
Celebrating 50 Years as a Region!
GOVERNORS AGAINST BDS

We, the undersigned Governors, reject efforts to demonize and delegitimize Israel Americas
democratic ally in the Middle East through the boycott, divestment and sanctions (BDS)
movement.
The goals of the BDS movement are antithetical to our values and the values of our respective
states. They seek to isolate Israel a pluralistic nation with deep cultural, familial, security,
educational, scientific and commercial bonds with our state and with the United States as a
whole rather than recognize the profound mutual benefits of our engagement with it. They
malign a trusted ally that, while forced to defend itself against repeated and ongoing attempts
to annihilate it, has consistently extended its hand in peace to its Palestinian neighbors and to
states across the Middle East and around the world.
Significantly, the BDS movement would also undermine peacemaking by suggesting that
economic and political pressure on Israel can replace real negotiation. We recognize that a
peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been painfully elusive, but reaffirm our
commitment to the principle of two states for two peoples, existing side by side in peace,
security and mutual recognition, and achieved through direct, bilateral negotiations.
Israel is a robust democracy with many rights and freedoms that do not exist in neighboring
countries or in much of the world. Yet, while fundamental rights are trampled and atrocities
are committed routinely not far beyond its borders, BDS supporters focus only on Israel.
Israels policies, like the policies of any nation, may be subject to criticism and debate, but the
BDS movements single-minded focus on the Jewish State raises serious questions about its
motivations and intentions.
At this critical time, in the face of the virulent movement to promote anti-Israel boycotts both
in this country and around the globe, we strongly condemn the BDS movement as incompatible
with the values of our states and our country. Likewise, we reaffirm our support for Israel as a
vital U.S. ally, important economic partner and champion of freedom.
____________________________________________________________________________
SIGNATURE
NAME & TITLE (PRINTED)
____________________________________________________________________________
STATE
DATE
THIS IS AN INITIATIVE OF AJC (AMERICAN JEWISH COMMITTEE).
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:
Importance:
Alex Bronzo
David Lobl
AJC looking for Gov Cuomo"s leadership in anti-BDS initiative
Thursday, May 05, 2016 3:28:35 PM
image001.jpg
image002.jpg
GOVERNORS AGAINST BDS.PDF
High
Hi David,
Thanks for taking a moment by phone this afternoon. As I mentioned, AJC is about to launch a new
initiative, Governors United: 50 States Against BDS, and we are hoping Governor Cuomo will be
amongst the countrys leading governors to sign onto the initiative (attached). Our plan will be to
announce the new initiative at our annual Global Forum June 5-7 in Washington DC in front of a
crowd of over 2,000 diplomats, public officials, interfaith leaders, foreign ministers, and lay leaders.
Follow up: If the Governor can join us for this announcement in DC, that would be wonderful. If he
cannot, we would of course appreciate his signature on the attached document, and would be
happy to announce his signing at the Global Forum.
Im looking forward to hearing from you soon, David.
Thanks,
Alex
--Alex Bronzo
Associate Director, AJC NY
212-891-1442
bronzoa@ajc.org
ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/AJCNY
twitter.com/AJCGlobal
AJC_Logo - SPHERE
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From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Michael Schmidt, AJC NY

David Lobl
AJC NY Advocating from Global to Local
Tuesday, March 29, 2016 10:15:55 AM
AJC NY IMPACT
AJC NY IMPACT
Global Terrorism, Local Advocacy: On Tuesday morning, March 22, we

woke up to news of a vicious terror attack in Brussels. AJC CEO David Harris
was there at the time for high-level meetings with EU officials on terrorism
and security. He was subsequently featured on FOX News' "Happening
Now" and wrote this piece for the Huffington Post and Times of Israel about
his experience.
The recent escalation of terrorist activities around the world underscores
even further the value of AJCs global advocacy and reminds us that we all
have the power to act.
In New York City, AJC is doing just that. In March, our lay leadership met
with European UN ambassadors and consuls general from Austria, Bulgaria,
the Netherlands, and Poland. During these advocacy meetings, global
security, Israel, rising anti-Semitism and the European migrant crisis were
the main topics. To effectively advocate on priority areas, AJC has long
established positive working relations with diplomats from across the 193
member states of the UN.
AJC NY IMPACT
Combating BDS: Despite Israels many technological, medical and cultural

contributions to the community of nations, it continues to be the sole focus
of a growing Boycott, Divestment and Sanction (BDS) campaign. AJC NYs
Anti-BDS Taskforce has been active combating this sinister movement.
Through outreach to New York State legislators to support anti-BDS
legislation and engagement of college campus leaders, AJC NY has been at
the forefront to end the efforts to portray Israel as a pariah state. AJC NYs
Anti-BDS Taskforce met with the leadership at several local universities,
including Columbia and NYU. AJC also launched a unique fellowship that will
help Jewish students develop critical advocacy and leadership skills in order
to build and strengthen intergroup coalitions.
Upcoming Events
Diplomatic Seder - Thursday, April 14, 5:45 PM
Join us for a unique dinner experience as we share the age-old story of
Passover and celebrate its universal themes of freedom, human rights and
social justice. We will be joined by AJC leaders and diplomats from around
the globe. Partners and spouses are encouraged to attend. Reserve your
seat today at: www.ajcnyc.org/Seder2016Leaders.
Rabbis' Roundtable - Wednesday, May 11
AJC NY's Rabbi's Roundtable brings together's New York Rabbis to hear
about issues of importance to the Jewish community. This session will
feature Dr. Steven Bayme, Director of the Contemporary Jewish Life
Department of the AJC and of the Koppelman Institute on American JewishIsraeli Relations. This event is for NYC rabbis. To reserve your spot or for
more information, please contact Associate Director Alex Bronzo at
bronzo@ajc.org.
Counselors' Council - Thursday, May 12
AJC NY's next Counselors' Council breakfast program, in partnership with
Proskauer Rose, LLP, will hear from experts on International law about
Israel's challenges vis-a-vis the International Criminal Court. CLE credit
offered. To reserve your spot or for more information on AJC NY's
Counselors' Council, contact Assistant Director Eric Post at poste@ajc.org.
Dialogues with Diplomats - Tuesday, May 17
AJC NY's signature Dialogues with Diplomats breakfast program will feature
AJC CEO David Harris, speaking about "A Jewish View on Global Advocacy
Today." This event is for members of AJC's Marshall Society. For more
information, please contact Associate Director Alex Bronzo at
bronzoa@ajc.org.
Global Forum 2016:
110 Years of Global Jewish Advocacy - June 5-7
Washington Hilton, 1919 Connecticut Avenue, Washington, D.C.
Join AJC NY as the world comes to AJC for a phenomenal 48 hours of
engagement, advocacy and debate on the most pressing global issues of
the day. First-time attendees receive 50% off with the code AJCFirst.
Register now!
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David Lobl
Celebrating AJC NY"s Impact
Monday, June 27, 2016 12:13:46 PM
AJC NY IMPACT
AJC NY Leads the Way at Global Forum: From June 5-7, AJC NY joined more
than 2,700 participants from over 70 countries for three days of diplomacy,
advocacy and education about issues that are of vital importance to the global
Jewish community. AJC celebrated its 110th anniversary with the largest Global
Forum ever, including 268 participants from AJC NY, the largest delegation
outside of Washington, D.C. Watch video highlights here.
Sign up now for Global Forum 2017 today!
New York's Governor Joins AJC NY to Counter BDS: On June 5, New York
Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that he would serve as a co-chair of AJCs
new initiative, Governors Against BDS. Building on the success of the Mayors
United Against Anti-Semitism initiative, AJC established this campaign to

counter the BDS movement and affirm Israels right to exist in peace and
security. Click here to learn more about this campaign and take action.
Governor Cuomo also issued an executive order, the first of its kind by a U.S.
governor, establishing that New York State will not do business with companies
that boycott Israel. Read more here.
AJC NY Bids Farewell to Israels Consul General: On June 15, AJC NY hosted
over 150 board members, diplomats, government representatives, interfaith
partners, and friends at AJC headquarters for its Annual Meeting. The meeting
highlighted AJC NYs impactful work during the past programmatic year and
thanked outgoing Israeli Consul General, Ido Aharoni, for all his work with the
Jewish Community in New York. At the meeting, AJC NY expressed its gratitude
to its outgoing board members and welcomed in the new slate of board
members.
AJC NY Welcomes its New and Returning Board Members:
Oscar Alerhand, Seth Berger, Ed Blank, David Edelson, Edith Fassberg, Alex
Goldin, Jason Manning, Cindy Masters, Linda Mirels, Gregorio Schneider,
Mitchell Tanzman, and Bob Weiss.
Wishing you a wonderful and relaxing summer!
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:

David Lobl
Celebrating Freedom with AJC NY
Wednesday, April 27, 2016 9:31:40 AM
AJC NY IMPACT
Why Was This Night Different From All Other Nights? AJC NY emptied the
halls of the United Nations and filled Congregation B'nai Jeshurun with an
international flavor, hosting 75 diplomats from over 40 countries for our
Diplomatic Seder to celebrate Passover and the universal themes of freedom
and justice. Israel's Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations
David Roet, and Hungary's Permanent Representative to the United Nations,
Katalin Bogyay, were the evening's freedom speakers.
AJC NY is Leading the Fight Against BDS: AJC NY's Anti-BDS Taskforce has been
actively reaching out to engage university administrators, student leaders and
Hillel directors to combat the growing boycott, divestment and sanctions (BDS)
movement.
When graduate student groups at CUNY and New York University recently
please contact Assistant Director Eric Post at poste@ajc.org.

Dialogues with Diplomats - Tuesday, May 17
AJC NY's signature Dialogues with Diplomats breakfast program will feature AJC
CEO David Harris speaking about A Jewish View on Global Advocacy Today. This
event is for members of AJC's Marshall Society. For more information, please
contact Associate Director Alex Bronzo at bronzoa@ajc.org.
Global Forum 2016:
110 Years of Global Jewish Advocacy - June 5-7
engagement, advocacy and debate on the most pressing global issues of the
day. First-time attendees receive 50% off with the code AJCFirst. Register now!
From:
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Subject:
Date:
AJC Media
David Lobl
David Harris Blog: The Jewish Future
Friday, November 06, 2015 10:05:16 AM
The Jewish Future

Commentary
By David Harris
November 5, 2015
Seventy thinkers, leaders, and clergy were asked: "What will be the condition
of the Jewish community 50 years from now?" Below is AJC Executive
Director David Harris's response:
Let me be honest. I have no clue what the Jewish condition will be in the
year 2065. In fact, I am hard-pressed to predict what things will look like
tomorrow.
Indeed, had I been asked to participate in a similar Commentary symposium
in 1965, could I have foreseen the Six-Day War only two years later, and its
aftermath?
Or the astonishing success of the Soviet Jewry movement at a time when

the word emigration was absent from the Kremlin's lexicon?
Or the downfall of the USSR and its satellites, and the rebirth of Jewish
communities in places where Jewish life was assumed to be nearing its
end?
Or, on a related note, that nations such as Bulgaria, Poland, and Romania
would one day speak of Israel as a "strategic" partner?
Or that Germany would become the home of the fastest-growing Jewish
community in the world?
Or that Israel would sign peace treaties with Egypt in 1979 and Jordan in
1994?
Or the remarkable flourishing of U.S.-Israeli relations, even as France's close
ties with Israel withered?
Or the recrudescence of anti-Semitism in Western Europe, fueled principally
by elements of a growing Muslim presence and an extreme right-wing
backlash to this immigration?
Or Israel's population more than tripling from 2.5 million to more than 8
million?
Or the rescue of tens of thousands of Ethiopian Jews, who for centuries
dreamed of Zion but, in their isolation, thought they might be the only Jews
on Earth?
Or the toppling of the remaining barriers to full Jewish participation in
American life, with Fortune 500 executive suites, Ivy League presidencies,
and presidential candidacies now wide open to Jews?
Or Israel's foreign-policy pivot to Asia, with India as a showcase of new
friendships?
Or the emergence of the Internet, creating previously unimaginable forms
of Jewish connectivity, JDate among them?
Or the ordaining of women rabbis, the establishment of LGBT-friendly
congregations, or the development of Chabad's worldwide outreach
network?
No, I could not have foreseen these startling developments in 1965.
So what is even remotely foreseeable from today's vantage point?

First, Israel will continue to grow and thrive. True, the religious, social, and
ethnic fault lines in Israeli society will not suddenly disappear. But the state
will somehow manage them and blaze a trail in the 21st century as a global,
sought-after leader in entrepreneurship, cybersecurity, water management,
counterterrorism, renewable energy, medical research, and breakthrough
technologies.
Second, while Israel's neighborhood might possibly improve one day,
affording new opportunities for regional cooperation, in the meantime the
Jewish state will be ready for whatever ominous new threats surface from
both state and non-state actors. As the story goes, God was so angry with
the world that he announced, in two weeks' time, a massive flood as
punishment. On hearing this news, the French president told his citizens
that the world would come to an end in 14 days, so there would be no
more work, just joie de vivre, until the last minute. Meanwhile, the Israeli
prime minister informed the Israeli people that "we have exactly two weeks
to learn how to live underwater."
Third, the universal vaccine against anti-Semitism is unlikely to be
discovered by 2065. For a while, many thought that postWorld War II
liberal democracy was the antidote, but the rise of Judeophobia in several
Western countries, abetted by the receding memory of the Holocaust and
its lessons, means that all bets are off.
Fourth, America's special ties with Israel will come under increasing
challenge. There are seismic demographic changes happening in the United
States, many college students are being exposed to the BDS movement on
campus, and, with the passage of time, fewer Americans are able to recall
the events of 1967 and how Israel unexpectedly became an "occupying
power." Absent an IsraeliPalestinian peace accord, the battle for American
public opinion will grow still more intense.
Fifth, even as Jews confront the inevitable external challenges, there will be
no shortage of internal debates and divisions that stretch the notion of am
echad, "one people," to the breaking point. To cite just one telling example,
the fast-growing Haredi population at one end of the spectrum will be
matched by the equally fast-growing population of Jews with an attenuated
identity, two groups with essentially nothing in common. Then again, we've
just about always been an argumentative and fractured people, sometimes,
alas, to the point of self-destruction, so why should that suddenly change?
From:
To:
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David Lobl
From Albany to the UN: AJC NY"s Power to Act
Tuesday, February 02, 2016 11:01:43 AM
AJC NY IMPACT
Battling BDS: Thank you to all of our partners who took action this month
through AJC NY's action alert in support of proposed New York State legislation
against the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement. We
generated 1,089 letters to New York state senators and assembly members,
which contributed to the assurance that New York's dollars will no longer go to
businesses which support harmful BDS activity.
AJC NY's Counselors' Council will address The Refugee and Migrant Crisis:
Comparing U.S. and Jewish Laws. The world refugee crisis raises many
profound legal and moral issues, including: What are Americas legal duties in
responding to the crisis? Can Congress or the states place limitations on the
admittance of refugees? What are the legal differences between migrants and
refugees, and when should it matter? CLE credit offered. For more information
on AJC NY's Counselors' Council, contact newyork@ajc.org.
Dialogues with Diplomats - February 25
AJC NY's signature engagement series will feature Ambassador Stefan Tafrov,
Bulgaria's Permanent Representative to the UN. Open to members of AJC NY's
Marshall Society.
Global Forum 2016 - 110 Years of Global Jewish Advocacy - June 5-7
engagement, advocacy and debate on the most pressing global issues of the
day. First-time attendees receive 50% off with the code AJCFirst. Register now!
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:
David Lobl
"Alex Bronzo"; Michael Schmidt
Fw: AJC Governors United: 50 States Against BDS
Friday, June 03, 2016 11:20:39 AM
ATT00001.htm
ATT00002.htm
Governor Cuomo.pdf
ATT00003.htm
Gents,
This doesn't help. It confuses everyone.
Sent from my BlackBerry 10 smartphone on the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network.
From: Fran Barrett
Sent: Friday, June 3, 2016 11:19 AM
To: David Lobl
Cc: Ana Almanzar
Subject: FW: AJC Governors United: 50 States Against BDS
Lets discuss this. I am not the person chargd with Gov. schedule, so Ill need your advice, but this
should get into Normal channels.
From: betty Cotton [mailto
]
To: Fran Barrett
Subject: Fwd: AJC Governors United: 50 States Against BDS
Hi Fran--Hope all is going well in your world! I'm wearing my American Jewish Committee
hat today and wanted to ask for your help on an exciting initiative that AJC is spearheading
across the country regarding Anti-Semitism. It would be an honor to have Governor Cuomo
be the first Governor to to join this effort, "Governors United", and join us in DC for the
launch.
Please see the below letter Michael Schmidt (ED of NY AJC) sent to David Lobl and the
official letter sent to the Governor. There will be 2500 attendees at this major conference in
DC. This year marks AJC's 110th Anniversary.
I only got word of this yesterday and apologize for the late notice. I can be reached @
or
c.
Best Regards,
Betty Cotton
Begin forwarded message:
From: Michael Schmidt <schmidtm@ajc.org>
Date: June 2, 2016 at 2:48:12 PM EDT
To:
Subject: AJC Governors United: 50 States Against
Dear David,
Following our recent conversations with you, please forward to Governor Cuomo
the attached letter from AJC CEO David Harris formally inviting Governor
Cuomo to be first Governors to join AJC in our Governors United initiative
(modeled on our highly successful Mayors United Against Anti-Semitism) and to
join us at our Global Forum when we will launch this effort in Washington DC
on Tuesday, June 7th. As we discussed, we would welcome Governor Cuomo
briefly speaking at the Global Forum and, in AJCs bi-partisan tradition and our
non-partisan status, we anticipate that there will also be a prominent Republican
elected official who will also be at this same session.
We would be grateful if you might be able to get back to me at your very earliest
convenience so that we can make appropriate arrangements with you and the
Governors office.
Best,
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
David Lobl
"Alex Bronzo"
Fw: Cuomo, Fighting Boycott Against Israel, Will Halt State Business With Groups That Back It
Sunday, June 05, 2016 8:16:04 AM

From: James Allen
Sent: Sunday, June 5, 2016 8:11 AM
To: #BLOGS
Subject: Cuomo, Fighting Boycott Against Israel, Will Halt State Business With Groups That Back It
Cuomo, Fighting Boycott Against Israel, Will Halt State Business With Groups That Back It
Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo of New York is planning to order agencies under his control to divest
themselves of companies and organizations aligned with a Palestinian-backed boycott
movement against Israel.
Wading into a delicate international issue, Mr. Cuomo will set executive-branch and other
state agencies in opposition to the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement, or B.D.S.,
which has grown in popularity in some quarters of the United States and elsewhere, alarming
Jewish leaders who fear its toll on Israels international image and economy.
Several states have moved to support Israel and prevent their governments and agencies from
doing business with companies or individuals that endorse the boycotts. Similar bills are
currently pending in both houses of the New York Legislature.
But on Sunday, Mr. Cuomo, a Democrat, intends to flex his executive power a more familiar
demonstration in the governors second term to expedite such action.
According to a draft version of an executive order obtained by The New York Times, Mr.
Cuomo will command the commissioner of the Office of General Services to devise a list over
the next six months of businesses and groups engaged in any boycott, divestment or
sanctions activity targeting Israel, either directly or through a parent or subsidiary.
The list will be compiled from credible information available to the public, according to the
order, and subject to appeal by the companies and entities included on it. Once the
designation process is completed, however, all executive-branch agencies and departments
which makes up a large portion of state government as well as public boards,
authorities, commissions and all public-benefit corporations will be required to divest
themselves of any company on the list.
Mr. Cuomo plans to announce his order at a speech on Sunday morning at the Harvard Club in
Manhattan before marching in the Celebrate Israel parade.
Alphonso David, the counsel to the governor, said in an interview that the executive action
was meant to send a clear message that New York did not approve of the Palestinian-backed
campaign.
Our position is the B.D.S. movement is deplorable, tailored to penalize Israel and tailored to
inflict economic harm, Mr. David said. So we take issue with it.
With the largest population of Jewish residents outside Israel, New York has outsize symbolic,
and political, value in the debate over the Middle East. For his part, Mr. Cuomo has shown
increased willingness in recent years to get involved in international issues, including a short
trip to Israel in 2014 with a state delegation.
The B.D.S. movement, started in 2005, has become a contentious issue on some American
college campuses and far beyond. Supporters say the campaign aims to pressure Israel
economically over its treatment of Palestine and to further Palestinian independence.
Opponents say the efforts are a thinly disguised, anti-Semitic attempt to deeply hurt or even
destroy Israel.
Omar Barghouti, a founder of the movement, said he did not find the actions by states like
New York surprising, calling such proposals part of Israels legal warfare against B.D.S.
Having lost many battles for hearts and minds at the grass-roots level, Israel has adopted
since 2014 a new strategy to criminalize support for B.D.S. from the top, he said in an email,
adding that such actions were meant to shield Israel from accountability.
Mr. Barghouti added that Israel was supporting efforts by states to try to delegitimize the
boycott, a time-honored tactic of resisting injustice in the U.S. and a form of protected
speech.
Mr. David said the governors order was not meant to be interpreted as opining on actions
taken to empower Palestinians, or meant to discourage debate over Israeli actions in the
Middle East. Rather, it intends to stake a position on a movement that the State of New York
unequivocally rejects, as the order puts it.
Its one thing to say I want to engage in political speech, Mr. David said. Its another thing
to say Im going to sanction you or penalize you for engaging in commercial activity.
He added that although he did not know how many companies that do business with the state
had endorsed or engaged in the B.D.S. movement, we anticipate its going to be quite
significant.
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:
David Lobl
Alex Bronzo; Michael Schmidt
Fw: GOVERNOR CUOMO SIGNS FIRST-IN-THE-NATION EXECUTIVE ORDER DIRECTING DIVESTMENT OF PUBLIC
FUNDS SUPPORTING BDS CAMPAIGN AGAINST ISRAEL
Sunday, June 05, 2016 11:44:50 AM
15524474.jpg

From: Press Office
Sent: Sunday, June 5, 2016 11:39 AM
To: Press Office
Subject: GOVERNOR CUOMO SIGNS FIRST-IN-THE-NATION EXECUTIVE ORDER DIRECTING
DIVESTMENT OF PUBLIC FUNDS SUPPORTING BDS CAMPAIGN AGAINST ISRAEL
For Immediate Release: 6/5/2016
GOVERNOR ANDREW M. CUOMO
GOVERNOR CUOMO SIGNS FIRST-IN-THE-NATION EXECUTIVE ORDER

DIRECTING DIVESTMENT OF PUBLIC FUNDS SUPPORTING BDS CAMPAIGN
AGAINST ISRAEL
State Agencies and Authorities Ordered to Divest Public Funding Supporting
Boycotts Divestment Sanctions Movement
Click Here to View the Signed Executive Order
Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today issued Executive Order No. 157 directing state
entities to divest all public funds supporting the Boycotts, Divestment and Sanctions
campaign against Israel. The first-in-the-nation action will ensure that no state
agency or authority engages in or promotes any investment activity that would further
the harmful and discriminatory Palestinian-backed Boycotts, Divestment and
Sanctions (BDS) campaign in New York State. The Governor made the
announcement at the Celebrate Israel Parade.
New York stands in solidarity with Israel today and always. This state will not stand
for the politics of discrimination in any form, and we will continue to demonstrate our
unwavering support for the people of Israel in the fight for freedom, liberty and
democracy, Governor Cuomo said. Im proud to sign this nations leading
executive order, which will help protect Israel from the threat of divestment. This
order sends the message that this state will do everything in its power to end this
hateful, intolerant campaign. New York and Israel share an unbreakable bond and I
pray that the Israeli and Palestinian people will find a way to live side by side and find
peace, prosperity and security.
BDS Campaign
In 2005, Palestinian civil society issued a call for a Boycotts, Divestment and
Sanctions campaign against Israel. The movement is coordinated by the Palestinian
BDS National Committee. By eroding confidence in Israels legitimacy, the BDS
campaign is intended to inflict economic harm, or limit commercial relations, and
ultimately weaken or undermine the State of Israel.
The BDS campaign urges many damaging actions against Israel, including:
Calling for a complete boycott of Israeli products and companies;
Promoting divestment actions targeting organizations such as endowed
universities or churches, and high-profile businesses with large financial holdings
in companies supporting Israel; and
Urging sanctions against Israel in a direct attempt to harm the economic viability
of the State.
To continue fighting the BDS campaign even further, Governor Cuomo has been
named as the Co-Chair of the American Jewish Committees Governors against BDS
initiative. For more than a century, the American Jewish Committee has been the
leading global Jewish advocacy organization. With offices across the United States
and around the globe, and partnerships with Jewish communities worldwide, it works
to enhance the well-being of the Jewish people and to advance human rights and
democratic values for all.
Governor Cuomo has long stood with Israel. In 2014, the Governor led a unity trip to
Israel in demonstration of solidarity with the State. During the two-day trip, the
Governor met with various Israeli government officials, and those impacted by the
conflict. Today, New York is home to more than 1.7 million Jews, representing the
largest Jewish community outside of Israel in the world. Photos of the Governors trip
to Israel can be viewed here.
EXECUTIVE ORDER NO. 157
EXECUTIVEORDER
DIRECTING STATE AGENCIES AND AUTHORITIES TO DIVEST PUBLIC FUNDS
SUPPORTING BDS CAMPAIGN AGAINST ISRAEL
WHEREAS, the State of Israel is a critical and invaluable ally of the United States;
WHEREAS, the State of New York and Israel enjoy a special historical relationship
and share a commonly forged cultural bond;
WHEREAS, the State of New York does not support boycott related tactics that are
used to threaten the sovereignty and security of allies and trade partners of the
United States;
WHEREAS, in 2005, elements of Palestinian civil society issued a call for a Boycott,
Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) campaign against Israel, coordinated by the
Palestinian BDS National Committee;
WHEREAS, the State of New York unequivocally rejects the BDS campaign and
stands firmly with Israel;
WHEREAS, the State of New York will not permit its own investment activity to further
the BDS campaign in any way, shape or form, whether directly or indirectly;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ANDREW M. CUOMO, Governor of the State of New York,
by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and Laws of the State of
New York, do hereby order as follows:
I. DEFINITIONS
A. Affected State Entities means (i) all agencies and departments over which the
Governor has executive authority, and (ii) all public-benefit corporations, public
authorities, boards, and commissions, for which the Governor appoints the Chair, the
Chief Executive, or the majority of Board Members, except for the Port Authority of
New York and New Jersey.
B. Boycott, divestment, or sanctions activity targeting Israel means to engage in any
activity, or promote others to engage in any activity, that is intended to penalize,
inflict economic harm on, or otherwise limit commercial relations with Israel or
persons doing business in Israel for purposes of coercing political action by, or
imposing policy positions on, the government of Israel.
C. Commissioner means the Commissioner of the Office of General Services.
II. PUBLICLY AVAILABLE LIST OF BDS ASSETS
A. Not later than 180 days after the date of this Executive Order, the Commissioner
shall develop a list of institutions and companies that the Commissioner determines,
using credible information available to the public, participate in boycott, divestment,
or sanctions activity targeting Israel, either directly or through a parent or subsidiary.
Such list, when completed, shall be posted on the website of the Office of General
Services.
B. The Commissioner shall update the list every 180 days.
C. Prior to placing any institution or company on the list, the Commissioner shall
provide to the particular institution or company written notice of the Commissioners
intent to include the institution or company on the list, and shall allow such institution
or company a period of at least 90 days to present the Commissioner with evidence
that the institution or company does not in fact participate in boycott, divestment, or
sanctions activity targeting Israel, either directly or through a parent or subsidiary.
D. Where, pursuant to Section II(C) above, the Commissioner makes a good faith
determination that the institution or company does not in fact engage in boycott,
divestment, or sanctions activity targeting Israel, either directly or through a parent or
subsidiary, the Commissioner shall not include the institution or company on the list.
E. An institution or company that has been included on the Commissioners list may
request removal from the list by submitting written evidence to the Commissioner that
the institution or company no longer participates in boycott, divestment, or sanctions
activity targeting Israel, either directly or through a parent or subsidiary. If the
Commissioner makes a good faith determination that the institution or company does
in fact no longer participate in such activity, the Commissioner shall remove the
institution or company from the list at the next opportunity pursuant to Section II(B)
above.
III. DIVESTMENT OF CERTAIN PUBLIC FUNDS
A. All Affected State Entities are hereby directed to divest their money and assets
from any investment in any institution or company that is included on the
Commissioners list pursuant to Section II above.
B. This Executive Order shall not be construed to require the premature or otherwise
imprudent divestment of money and assets, but Affected State Entities shall achieve
compliance with the directive in Section III(A) above no later than one year after the
issuance of this Executive Order.
IV. NO FURTHER INVESTMENTS IN BDS ASSETS
A. No money or assets shall be invested by any Affected State Entity in the future in
any institution or company that is included on the Commissioners list pursuant to
Section II above.
FURTHER, this Order shall take effect immediately and shall remain in effect until
further notice.
###
Additional news available at www.governor.ny.gov

New York State | Executive Chamber |press.office@exec.ny.gov | 518.474.8418
From: Alex Bronzo [mailto:bronzoa@ajc.org]

Sent: Thursday, June 02, 2016 6:43 PM
To: David Lobl
Cc: Michael Schmidt
Subject: Re: Governors United Against BDS- RESPONSE REQUESTED
Hi David,
As a follow up to our conversation, perhaps the Governor would like to consider utilizing the
opportunity of Sunday's Israel speech to announce his signing onto our initiative and showcase that
he is among the first governors in the nation to do it?
Best,
Alex
--Alex Bronzo
212-891-1442
bronzoa@ajc.org
ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/AJCNY
twitter.com/AJCNYLI
_____________________________
Sent: Thursday, June 2, 2016 08:52
Subject: Governors United Against BDS- RESPONSE REQUESTED
To: David Lobl <david.lobl@exec.ny.gov>
Cc: Alex Bronzo <bronzoa@ajc.org>
Dear David,
We wanted to share that Gov. Greg Abbott of Texas has signed on to the AJC
Governors United: 50 States Against BDS initiative. We have a number of asks out to
both Democrats and Republicans and anticipate that bipartisan support will mount
quickly. We wanted to give Governor Cuomo one more opportunity to be the first
Democrat to sign on to this unique opportunity and initiative as we still plan to
launch this campaign at our Global Forum next week in front of our 2,500+
attendees.
Please let me know either way before we confirm with another governor.
Best,
--Michael Schmidt
Director, AJC NY
212-891-1445
schmidtm@ajc.org
www.ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/ajcny
GloFo for signature
From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:
Alex Bronzo
David Lobl
Michael Schmidt
FW: How can you stand up for Israel?
Thursday, July 07, 2016 4:37:54 PM
image001.jpg
Hi David,
I hope you are well and enjoyed the 4th with family and friends.
Governor Cuomo is prominently mentioned as co-chair of our BDS initiative in the below mailing
which has been distributed widely to AJCs supporters. In the coming hours and days the governor
may receive notes of thanks for his principled leadership on combating BDS. Thanks again for all
you have done to facilitate his participation in our initiative.
Best,
Alex
--Alex Bronzo
212-891-1442
bronzoa@ajc.org
ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/AJCNY
2017
From: Daniel Elbaum, AJC Managing Director, Regional Offices

Sent: Thursday, July 07, 2016 4:19 PM
Subject: How can you stand up for Israel?
Dear Colleagues,
Boycott, Divest, Sanction. BDS, for short. These three letters designate the global
movement that seeks to isolate and delegitimize the worlds only Jewish state.
From campuses to capitals, BDS activists are getting their message out loud and clear.
Help AJC turn the tables on their anti-Israel, anti-peace agenda.
AJC recently launched Governors United Against BDS, a proactive initiative that puts
state leaders on record condemning BDS and reaffirming support for Israel as a vital
U.S. ally and important economic partner.
From: Alex Bronzo [mailto:bronzoa@ajc.org]

To: Alphonso David
Cc: Michael Schmidt
Subject: Looking for Gov Cuomo's leadership on new initiative
Importance: High
Dear Alphonso,
I just left you a message with your secretary, and thought I might leave you an email as well
with my contact information. I understand Michael, copied here, and a delegation of AJC
NY leaders met with you a few years ago. This year we have focused our energy on several
important initiatives of importance to the global Jewish community, and most recently an
effort to combat the discriminatory anti-Israel BDS (boycott, divestment, sanctions)
movement. Attached is a letter from AJC CEO David Harris formally inviting Governor
Cuomo to be among the first Governors to join AJC in our Governors United initiative
(modeled on our highly successful Mayors United Against Anti-Semitism). Although we
have been told that the Governors schedule will not permit his joining us at our Global
Forum this weekend, I would be grateful if you could get back to me today, so we can
discuss this initiative, and hopefully get the Governors signature as soon as possible.
My direct office number is 212-891-1442, and if you miss me there please call my mobile
number, 516-306-0292. Thanks and I hope to hear from you shortly.
Best,
Alex Bronzo

212-891-1442
bronzoa@ajc.org
ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/AJCNY
AJC_Logo - SPHERE
GloFo for signature
From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:
Importance:
Michael Schmidt
David Lobl
Alex Bronzo
Governors United Against BDS- RESPONSE REQUESTED
Thursday, June 02, 2016 8:53:23 AM
image003.jpg
image004.jpg
High
Dear David,
We wanted to share that Gov. Greg Abbott of Texas has signed on to the AJC Governors
United: 50 States Against BDS initiative. We have a number of asks out to both Democrats
and Republicans and anticipate that bipartisan support will mount quickly. We wanted to give
Governor Cuomo one more opportunity to be the first Democrat to sign on to this unique
opportunity and initiative as we still plan to launch this campaign at our Global Forum next
week in front of our 2,500+ attendees.
Best,
--Michael Schmidt
Director, AJC NY
212-891-1445
schmidtm@ajc.org
www.ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/ajcny
GloFo for signature
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Daniel Elbaum, AJC Managing Director, Regional Offices

David Lobl
How can you stand up for Israel?
Thursday, July 07, 2016 4:19:57 PM
Dear Andrew,
Boycott, Divest, Sanction. BDS, for short. These three letters designate the
global movement that seeks to isolate and delegitimize the worlds only
Jewish state.
From campuses to capitals, BDS activists are getting their message out loud
and clear. Help AJC turn the tables on their anti-Israel, anti-peace
agenda.
AJC recently launched Governors United Against BDS, a proactive initiative
that puts state leaders on record condemning BDS and reaffirming support for
Israel as a vital U.S. ally and important economic partner.
Governors from Arkansas, Delaware, New Hampshire, Maine, and Utah have
already joined campaign co-chairs Andrew Cuomo of New York, Greg Abbott
of Texas, and Dannel Malloy of Connecticut in this bipartisan effort.
You have the power to act. It takes just one minute to thank your governor
for joining the campaign, or urge him/her to do so today.
With a few clicks you can speak out against injustice and stand up for peace.
Lets make a powerful statement that support for Israel remains
steadfaststate by state, coast to coast.
Thank you,
Daniel Elbaum
AJC Managing Director, Regional Offices
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Stanley M. Bergman, AJC President

David Lobl
How will you do it?
Tuesday, November 17, 2015 10:51:37 AM
Dear Andrew,
The events of the past week are yet another
reminder of the defining moment we face.
As we absorb the horror in Paris and the terror
wave hitting Israel, we must ask ourselves
how will we meet the moment?
As AJC's President, I can promise you that AJC will do everything in our power to
meet this moment. We will do so by using our global advocacy architecture,
access to word leaders, and hard-earned credibility to make an impact.
In 2015 alone, we brought influential leaders from around the world to Israel,
mobilized hundreds of mayors from America's largest cities to protest rising antiSemitism in Europe, and reached millions with our important advocacy messages
on social media.
We spearheaded anti-BDS (boycott, divestment, and sanctions) legislation at the
state level and inspired a bipartisan taskforce in the U.S. Congress to counter
anti-Semitism.
But we can and we must redouble our efforts. This moment demands it.
We need your support now more than ever. Will you meet the moment with us?
In solidarity,
Stanley M. Bergman
AJC President
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:

David Lobl
Impact - Battling BDS, Shaming Iran
Thursday, February 18, 2016 4:41:36 PM
AJC
From calling out the embrace of Iran by many European countries to battling
BDS in the U.S., AJC's advocacy was felt far and wide this month. With your
help, we have the power to actand make a differencearound the world.
Read more in this edition of AJC Impact.
AJC
In recent weeks, European capitals were poised to welcome Iran's leaders with
open arms. But AJC offices in Berlin, Brussels, Paris, and Rome mobilized to
challenge those who would downplay Tehran's abysmal human rights record
in order to benefit from increased trade and diplomatic relations.
AJC Paris launched a campaign in both traditional and social media to
highlight the shameful hypocrisy of hosting the Iranian President in France on
International Holocaust Remembrance Day. That's the same Iran that plans to
host another Holocaust denial cartoon contest! Read AJC Europe Director
Simone Rodan-Benzaquen in Fox News: Why Is France Commemorating the
Holocaust with Iran's President?
In advance of Foreign Minister Javad Zarif's visit to Brussels this week, the
AJC Transatlantic Institute organized a counter-event at the European
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:

David Lobl
Jewish America"s First Ambassador to Muslims
Thursday, May 26, 2016 6:30:38 PM
AJC
This month, AJC demonstrates how strategic, forward-looking thinking,

combined with the power to act, can embolden a new generation of global
Jewish advocacy.
It's the largest AJC Global Forum ever, and the record-breaking crowd this
year will hear from three major players on the world stage, all of them, in a
first, women: U.S. National Security Advisor Susan Rice, EU Foreign Policy
Chief Federica Mogherini, and Mexican Foreign Secretary Claudia Ruiz
Massieu.
Can't make it to the AJC Global Forum? Watch the live webcasts. Sign up now
to receive a reminder email prior to the start of each session.
Work with Muslim partners to combat anti-Semitism within their communities.

Speak out and challenge anti-Muslim sentiment in American society. Confront
extremism. Increase understanding of Israel among Muslim Americans. And,
in time, replicate the process across Europe. Bob Silverman, a longtime U.S.
Foreign Service officer and AJC's new U.S. Director of Muslim-Jewish
relations, has been tasked with the toughest interreligious job in the Jewish
world. Read his take on the defining interfaith challenge of our day in this
Religion News Service profile.
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
David Harris, AJC Executive Director

David Lobl
Looking back
Wednesday, December 23, 2015 8:46:54 AM
In 2015, AJC used our global advocacy architecture, access to world leaders,
and hard-earned credibility to make a difference. This edition of AJC Impact
lays out our vital work over the past 12 monthswork that your support
makes possible.
Around the worldfrom the hallways of the UN to the countries of the Pacific
RimAJC engages in pro-Israel advocacy at the highest levels, and never
more so than in 2015.
Exposing Anti-Israel Bias at the UN
As world leaders gathered in New York City this fall for the opening of the UN
General Assembly, AJC met with many of them privately, published a fullpage ad in The Wall Street Journal, and launched a social media campaign, all
with one overarching aimto reverse anti-Israel bias at the UN. Learn more
and take action at UNjustUN.org.
Connecting World Leaders with Israel
AJC Project Interchange (PI) has brought influential leaders from 89 countries
to experience Israel first-hand. This year, these PI delegations included Latino
journalists, African business leaders, EU officials, and Rhodes Scholars. More
than 90% of PI alumni have taken positive Israel-related action upon returning
home. A partnership between Tel Aviv University and Miami-Dade College to
link the two high-tech citiesthe direct result of a PI tripis one great 2015
example.
Battling BDS
AJC helped secure passage of legislation in Illinois, New York, Pennsylvania,
and several other states countering the anti-Israel boycott, divestment, and
sanctions (BDS) movement. And earlier this month, the United Auto Workers
(UAW) International overturned a pro-BDS resolution passed by the University
of California Student-Workers Union in December 2014. AJC Los Angeles
assembled the pro bono legal team that successfully appealed the initial
ruling.
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Alex Bronzo
David Lobl
Out of Office: Cuomo, Fighting Boycott Against Israel, Will Halt State Business With Groups That Back It
Sunday, June 05, 2016 8:16:30 AM
Thank you for your email. I am currently at the AJC Global Forum in Washington, D.C. from Sunday,
June 5 to Tuesday, June 7. If you need immediate assistance, please contact Wanda Vargas at 212891-1443 or vargasw@ajc.org.
If you can't make it to the AJC Global Forum, you can still follow along via our live webcasts. Visit
www.ajc.org/signup to receive a friendly reminder just prior to the live webcasts you don't want to
miss! While you are watching, join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter using #GloFo.
I will look forward to being in touch with you when I return to New York.
Best,
Alex
--Alex Bronzo
212-891-1442
bronzoa@ajc.org
ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/AJCNY
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Michael Schmidt
David Lobl
Out of Office: GOVERNOR CUOMO SIGNS FIRST-IN-THE-NATION EXECUTIVE ORDER DIRECTING DIVESTMENT
OF PUBLIC FUNDS SUPPORTING BDS CAMPAIGN AGAINST ISRAEL
Sunday, June 05, 2016 11:45:21 AM
Thank you for your email. I am currently attending the AJC Global Forum in Washington, D.C. If you
need immediate assistance, please be in touch with Wanda Vargas at vargasw@ajc.org or 212-8911443.
If you can't make it to the AJC Global Forum, you can still follow along via our live webcasts. Visit
www.ajc.org/signup to receive a friendly reminder just prior to the live webcasts you don't want to
miss! While you are watching, join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter using #GloFo.
I look forward to being in touch when I am back in the office.
Michael Schmidt
Director, AJC NY
From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:
David Lobl
Michael Schmidt
Alex Bronzo
Re: AJC Governors United: 50 States Against BDS
Friday, May 13, 2016 6:34:41 PM
image005.jpg
image001.jpg
Hello Michael and Alex,

We should have a conversation on this on Monday at some point. When during the GF will this
issue be addressed?
Thanks and Shabbat Shalom.
David
From: Michael Schmidt
Sent: Thursday, May 12, 2016 12:21 PM
To: David Lobl
Cc: Alex Bronzo
Subject: AJC Governors United: 50 States Against BDS
Dear David,
Following our recent conversations with you, please forward to Governor Cuomo the attached
letter from AJC CEO David Harris formally inviting Governor Cuomo to be first Governors to
join AJC in our Governors United initiative (modeled on our highly successful Mayors United
Against Anti-Semitism) and to join us at our Global Forum when we will launch this effort in
Washington DC on Tuesday, June 7th. As we discussed, we would welcome Governor Cuomo
briefly speaking at the Global Forum and, in AJCs bi-partisan tradition and our non-partisan
status, we anticipate that there will also be a prominent Republican elected official who will
We would be grateful if you might be able to get back to me at your very earliest convenience
so that we can make appropriate arrangements with you and the Governors office.
Best,
--Michael Schmidt
Director, AJC NY
212-891-1445
schmidtm@ajc.org
www.ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/ajcny
From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:
Importance:
Alex Bronzo
David Lobl
Michael Schmidt
RE: AJC Governors United: 50 States Against BDS
Monday, May 16, 2016 2:55:18 PM
image001.jpg
image002.jpg
High
Hi David,
Thanks for taking a moment by phone this afternoon. As I mentioned, since we are three weeks
away from Global Forum, we are looking to move this initiative forward right away. As you
indicated, if you can send us word of the Governors signature on the document today, that would
be much appreciated.
Then we will address the question of his gubernatorial co-chair (FL, OH, TX), as well as the possibility
of his appearance at the Global Forum in DC.
Thanks again,
Alex
--Alex Bronzo
212-891-1442
bronzoa@ajc.org
ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/AJCNY
AJC_Logo - SPHERE
GloFo for signature
From: Alex Bronzo

Sent: Monday, May 16, 2016 10:50 AM
To: David Lobl
Cc: Michael Schmidt
Subject: RE: AJC Governors United: 50 States Against BDS
Hi David,
I just tried you by phone and heard that your voicemail box is full. Please let me know of a
convenient time today for me to call you back. You can also contact me directly at 212-891-1442, or
my cell
.
Looking forward to hearing from you,

Alex
--Alex Bronzo
212-891-1442
bronzoa@ajc.org
ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/AJCNY
AJC_Logo - SPHERE
GloFo for signature

Sent: Friday, May 13, 2016 7:19 PM
To: David Lobl
Cc: Alex Bronzo
Subject: Re: AJC Governors United: 50 States Against BDS
Hi David,
I just learned that this will take place on Monday, June 6, 1:30-3:00 pm.
Shabbat shalom!
Best regards,
Michael
Michael Schmidt
Director, AJC NY
212-891-1445
schmidtm@ajc.org
www.ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/ajcny
This email may contain confidential information and/or privileged information and is intended for
the sole use of the intended recipient. If you receive this email in error, please destroy this email
and notify the sender.
On May 13, 2016, at 7:02 PM, David Lobl <David.Lobl@exec.ny.gov> wrote:

We should have a conversation on this on Monday at some point. When during
the GF will this issue be addressed?
David
To: David Lobl
Cc: Alex Bronzo
Dear David,
the attached letter from AJC CEO David Harris formally inviting Governor Cuomo
to be first Governors to join AJC in our Governors United initiative (modeled on
our highly successful Mayors United Against Anti-Semitism) and to join us at our
Global Forum when we will launch this effort in Washington DC on Tuesday, June
7th. As we discussed, we would welcome Governor Cuomo briefly speaking at the
Global Forum and, in AJCs bi-partisan tradition and our non-partisan status, we
anticipate that there will also be a prominent Republican elected official who will
Governors office.
Best,
--Michael Schmidt
Director, AJC NY
212-891-1445
schmidtm@ajc.org
www.ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/ajcny
From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:
Alex Bronzo
David Lobl
Michael Schmidt
Monday, May 16, 2016 10:50:27 AM
image001.jpg
image002.jpg
Hi David,
my cell
.
Alex
--Alex Bronzo
212-891-1442
bronzoa@ajc.org
ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/AJCNY
AJC_Logo - SPHERE
GloFo for signature

To: David Lobl
Cc: Alex Bronzo
Hi David,
Shabbat shalom!
Best regards,
Michael
Michael Schmidt
Director, AJC NY
212-891-1445
schmidtm@ajc.org
www.ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/ajcny

David
To: David Lobl
Cc: Alex Bronzo
Dear David,
Governors office.
Best,
---
Michael Schmidt
Director, AJC NY
212-891-1445
schmidtm@ajc.org
www.ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/ajcny
From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
Michael Schmidt
David Lobl
Alex Bronzo
Friday, May 13, 2016 7:19:33 PM
Hi David,
Shabbat shalom!
Best regards,
Michael
Michael Schmidt
Director, AJC NY
212-891-1445
schmidtm@ajc.org
www.ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/ajcny
This email may contain confidential information and/or privileged information and is intended
for the sole use of the intended recipient. If you receive this email in error, please destroy this
email and notify the sender.
David
To: David Lobl
Cc: Alex Bronzo
Dear David,
Governors office.
Best,
--Michael Schmidt
Director, AJC NY
212-891-1445
schmidtm@ajc.org
www.ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/ajcny
From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
Michael Schmidt
David Lobl
Alex Bronzo
Friday, May 13, 2016 7:04:24 PM
Hi David,
I believe this is being announced on Tuesday June 7 between 11-12 at our "Call to Action"
closing of the forum.
Best regards,
Michael
Michael Schmidt
Director, AJC NY
212-891-1445
schmidtm@ajc.org
www.ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/ajcny
This email may contain confidential information and/or privileged information and is intended
for the sole use of the intended recipient. If you receive this email in error, please destroy this
email and notify the sender.
David
To: David Lobl
Cc: Alex Bronzo
Dear David,
Governors office.
Best,
--Michael Schmidt
Director, AJC NY
212-891-1445
schmidtm@ajc.org
www.ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/ajcny
From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:
Alex Bronzo
David Lobl
Michael Schmidt
Tuesday, May 17, 2016 3:36:13 PM
image001.jpg
image002.jpg
Hi David,
I left you a voicemail after your meeting at 3:15, and am looking forward to your call this afternoon.
Best,
Alex
--Alex Bronzo
212-891-1442
bronzoa@ajc.org
ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/AJCNY
AJC_Logo - SPHERE
GloFo for signature
From: Alex Bronzo

Sent: Monday, May 16, 2016 7:51 PM
To: David Lobl
Cc: Michael Schmidt
Hi David,
Do we have an answer from Albany on the signed document?
BestAlex
--Alex Bronzo
212-891-1442
bronzoa@ajc.org
ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/AJCNY
twitter.com/AJCNYLI
On Mon, May 16, 2016 at 12:00 PM -0700, "Alex Bronzo" <bronzoa@ajc.org> wrote:
With apologies for a second email, I meant Florida, Illinois, and Texas.
--Alex Bronzo
212-891-1442
bronzoa@ajc.org
ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/AJCNY
AJC_Logo - SPHERE
GloFo for signature
From: Alex Bronzo

To: David Lobl
Cc: Michael Schmidt
Importance: High
Hi David,
Thanks for taking a moment by phone this afternoon. As I mentioned, since we are three weeks
away from Global Forum, we are looking to move this initiative forward right away. As you
indicated, if you can send us word of the Governors signature on the document today, that would
be much appreciated.
Then we will address the question of his gubernatorial co-chair (FL, OH, TX), as well as the possibility
of his appearance at the Global Forum in DC.
Thanks again,
Alex
---
Alex Bronzo
212-891-1442
bronzoa@ajc.org
ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/AJCNY
AJC_Logo - SPHERE
GloFo for signature
From: Alex Bronzo

To: David Lobl
Cc: Michael Schmidt
Hi David,
my cell
.
Alex
--Alex Bronzo
212-891-1442
bronzoa@ajc.org
ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/AJCNY
AJC_Logo - SPHERE
GloFo for signature

To: David Lobl
Cc: Alex Bronzo
Hi David,
Shabbat shalom!
Best regards,
Michael
Michael Schmidt
Director, AJC NY
212-891-1445
schmidtm@ajc.org
www.ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/ajcny

David
To: David Lobl
Cc: Alex Bronzo

Dear David,
Governors office.
Best,
--Michael Schmidt
Director, AJC NY
212-891-1445
schmidtm@ajc.org
www.ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/ajcny
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:
Alex Bronzo
David Lobl
Friday, May 20, 2016 12:39:44 PM
image001.jpg
image002.jpg
Hi David,
Just so that you know, we are mobilizing around members of the Gov Ops Committee, where
Assemblyman Lavines bill currently sits. We are pushing for it to go to a vote and pass. If this is an
area in which we can work together, we would welcome that.
Looking forward to being in touch on this issue,
Alex
--Alex Bronzo
212-891-1442
bronzoa@ajc.org
ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/AJCNY
AJC_Logo - SPHERE
GloFo for signature
From: Alex Bronzo

Sent: Tuesday, May 17, 2016 3:36 PM
To: David Lobl
Cc: Michael Schmidt
Hi David,
I left you a voicemail after your meeting at 3:15, and am looking forward to your call this afternoon.
Best,
Alex
--Alex Bronzo
212-891-1442
bronzoa@ajc.org
ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/AJCNY
AJC_Logo - SPHERE
GloFo for signature
From: Alex Bronzo

To: David Lobl
Cc: Michael Schmidt
Hi David,
Do we have an answer from Albany on the signed document?
BestAlex
--Alex Bronzo
212-891-1442
bronzoa@ajc.org
ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/AJCNY
twitter.com/AJCNYLI
On Mon, May 16, 2016 at 12:00 PM -0700, "Alex Bronzo" <bronzoa@ajc.org> wrote:
With apologies for a second email, I meant Florida, Illinois, and Texas.
--Alex Bronzo
212-891-1442
bronzoa@ajc.org
ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/AJCNY
GloFo for signature
From: Alex Bronzo

To: David Lobl
Cc: Michael Schmidt
Hi David,
my cell
.
Alex
--Alex Bronzo
212-891-1442
bronzoa@ajc.org
ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/AJCNY
AJC_Logo - SPHERE
GloFo for signature

To: David Lobl
Cc: Alex Bronzo
Hi David,
Shabbat shalom!
Best regards,
Michael
Michael Schmidt
Director, AJC NY
212-891-1445
schmidtm@ajc.org
www.ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/ajcny

David
To: David Lobl
Cc: Alex Bronzo
Dear David,
Governors office.
Best,
--Michael Schmidt
Director, AJC NY
212-891-1445
schmidtm@ajc.org
www.ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/ajcny
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:
Scott Richman
David Lobl
RE: AJC Live - BDS
Monday, June 20, 2016 4:27:42 PM
image001.jpg
David,
Just checking in. Is there a possibility that the Governor might be available to call in to the radio
show to discuss BDS, as outlined below?
Thanks.
n Scott
Scott Richman
Regional Director
914-948-5585, x22
RichmanS@AJC.org

From: Scott Richman
To: David Lobl (David.Lobl@exec.ny.gov)
Subject: AJC Live - BDS
David,
A belated thank you to you and Governor Cuomo both for the Executive Order Against BDS and for
co-chairing the new AJC initiative known as Governors Against BDS. I do a bi-weekly, one-hour
radio show on WVOX 1460 AM, a Westchester-based radio station. It is called AJC Live. After
reading Sieradskis attack on Governor Cuomo in this past Mondays Times, I have decided to devote
my Wednesday, June 29th show to BDS. I will involve our Associate Executive Vice President who is
spearheading our anti-BDS initiative, as well as our General Counsel, who will clearly debunk what
Sieradski wrote. I am wondering if the Governor might be available to come on for just a few
minutes to make a statement about why he opposes BDS and penned the Executive Order. He can
do this by phone from anywhere. The show airs live from 11-12, but I will not start until about 11:08
because of commercials and news. My preference would be for him to come on at the end, once it
is all set up, which would mean 11:45, but I will make it work at any time, of course. While the
listening area is most of Westchester and some of the Bronx, the station can be streamed live from
anywhere in the world on www.wvox.com and has a good following well beyond this catchment
area. In addition, I podcast the shows and push them out through e-mail and social media. Given the
AJC network around the world, the shows get replayed many times. Might Governor Cuomo be
available for this brief time on Wednesday, June 29th between 11:08 a.m. and 12 p.m., preferably
around 11:45 a.m.?

Thanks.
n Scott
Scott Richman
Regional Director
914-948-5585, x22
RichmanS@AJC.org
GOVERNORS AGAINST BDS

We, the undersigned Governors, reject efforts to demonize and delegitimize Israel Americas
democratic ally in the Middle East through the boycott, divestment and sanctions (BDS)
movement.
The goals of the BDS movement are antithetical to our values and the values of our respective
states. They seek to isolate Israel a pluralistic nation with deep cultural, familial, security,
educational, scientific and commercial bonds with our state and with the United States as a
whole rather than recognize the profound mutual benefits of our engagement with it. They
malign a trusted ally that, while forced to defend itself against repeated and ongoing attempts
to annihilate it, has consistently extended its hand in peace to its Palestinian neighbors and to
states across the Middle East and around the world.
Significantly, the BDS movement would also undermine peacemaking by suggesting that
economic and political pressure on Israel can replace real negotiation. We recognize that a
peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been painfully elusive, but reaffirm our
commitment to the principle of two states for two peoples, existing side by side in peace,
security and mutual recognition, and achieved through direct, bilateral negotiations.
Israel is a robust democracy with many rights and freedoms that do not exist in neighboring
countries or in much of the world. Yet, while fundamental rights are trampled and atrocities
are committed routinely not far beyond its borders, BDS supporters focus only on Israel.
Israels policies, like the policies of any nation, may be subject to criticism and debate, but the
BDS movements single-minded focus on the Jewish State raises serious questions about its
motivations and intentions.
At this critical time, in the face of the virulent movement to promote anti-Israel boycotts both
in this country and around the globe, we strongly condemn the BDS movement as incompatible
with the values of our states and our country. Likewise, we reaffirm our support for Israel as a
vital U.S. ally, important economic partner and champion of freedom.
____________________________________________________________________________
SIGNATURE
NAME & TITLE (PRINTED)
____________________________________________________________________________
STATE
DATE
THIS IS AN INITIATIVE OF AJC (AMERICAN JEWISH COMMITTEE).
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:
Alex Bronzo
David Lobl
RE: AJC looking for Gov Cuomo"s leadership in anti-BDS initiative
Tuesday, May 10, 2016 10:05:47 AM
image001.jpg
image002.jpg
GOVERNORS AGAINST BDS.PDF
Hi David,
Thanks again for taking the time to discuss this yesterday. Do you think youll be able to get the
document signed soon? Would love to share the news with our folks tomorrow on the conference
call were holding.
And, any thoughts on FL/IL/TX?
Alex
--Alex Bronzo
212-891-1442
bronzoa@ajc.org
ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/AJCNY
AJC_Logo - SPHERE
GloFo for signature
From: Alex Bronzo

To: David Lobl (David.Lobl@exec.ny.gov)
Subject: AJC looking for Gov Cuomo's leadership in anti-BDS initiative
Importance: High
Hi David,
Thanks for taking a moment by phone this afternoon. As I mentioned, AJC is about to launch a new
initiative, Governors United: 50 States Against BDS, and we are hoping Governor Cuomo will be
amongst the countrys leading governors to sign onto the initiative (attached). Our plan will be to
announce the new initiative at our annual Global Forum June 5-7 in Washington DC in front of a
crowd of over 2,000 diplomats, public officials, interfaith leaders, foreign ministers, and lay leaders.
Follow up: If the Governor can join us for this announcement in DC, that would be wonderful. If he
cannot, we would of course appreciate his signature on the attached document, and would be
happy to announce his signing at the Global Forum.

Im looking forward to hearing from you soon, David.
Thanks,
Alex
--Alex Bronzo
212-891-1442
bronzoa@ajc.org
ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/AJCNY
AJC_Logo - SPHERE
GloFo for signature
From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:
David Lobl
Alex Bronzo
Michael Schmidt
Re: Governors United Against BDS- RESPONSE REQUESTED
Thursday, June 02, 2016 10:41:13 PM
image004.jpg
image003.jpg
Thank you, Alex. We will touch base tomorrow.

From: Alex Bronzo
To: David Lobl
Cc: Michael Schmidt
Hi David,
As a follow up to our conversation, perhaps the Governor would like to consider utilizing
the opportunity of Sunday's Israel speech to announce his signing onto our initiative and
showcase that he is among the first governors in the nation to do it?
Best,
Alex
--Alex Bronzo
212-891-1442
bronzoa@ajc.org
ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/AJCNY
twitter.com/AJCNYLI
_____________________________
Dear David,
From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:
Importance:
Alex Bronzo
David Lobl
Michael Schmidt
RE: Governors United Against BDS- RESPONSE REQUESTED
Friday, June 03, 2016 10:33:23 AM
image001.jpg
image002.jpg
image003.jpg
High
Hi David,
I can appreciate how busy you are, and I hope we will connect this morning. As I just mentioned by
phone, please call me on my cell a
if you miss me on my desk phone. Its very
important that we speak today, before our Global Forum which begins in 48 hours.
Thanks very muchAlex
--Alex Bronzo
212-891-1442
bronzoa@ajc.org
ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/AJCNY
AJC_Logo - SPHERE
GloFo for signature
From: David Lobl [mailto:David.Lobl@exec.ny.gov]

To: Alex Bronzo
Cc: Michael Schmidt
Thank you, Alex. We will touch base tomorrow.

From: Alex Bronzo
To: David Lobl
Cc: Michael Schmidt
Hi David,
As a follow up to our conversation, perhaps the Governor would like to consider utilizing the
opportunity of Sunday's Israel speech to announce his signing onto our initiative and showcase that
he is among the first governors in the nation to do it?
Best,
Alex
--Alex Bronzo
212-891-1442
bronzoa@ajc.org
ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/AJCNY
twitter.com/AJCNYLI
_____________________________
Dear David,
week in front of our 2,500+ attendees.
Best,
--Michael Schmidt
Director, AJC NY
212-891-1445
schmidtm@ajc.org
www.ajcnyc.org
facebook.com/ajcny
GloFo for signature
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
AJC Global Forum

David Lobl
The Future of Israel
Thursday, June 02, 2016 1:07:10 PM
Can't make it to the AJC Global Forum, June 5-7, in Washington, D.C.? We've
got the next best thing. Use this link, or click on the links below, to sign up to
receive a friendly reminder just prior to the live webcasts you don't want to
miss!
Jewish State
Monday, June 6, at 10:15 AM ET

Their fingers on the pulse of the nation, leading Israeli journalists ponder the
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Avital Leibovich, AJC Jerusalem Director

David Lobl
Where is the outcry?
Tuesday, December 08, 2015 9:30:10 AM
Dear Andrew,
The mood in Israel right now is tense but determined. An ongoing wave of terror
attacks is putting every Israeli at risk. On the roads, on the sidewalkssuddenly,
bullets, rocks, and knives may appear at every turn. We Israelis persevere, but
we cant help asking ourselves, where is the worlds outcry?
In my case, I am comforted because I work for an organization that understands
that we are in the midst of a defining moment.
Today, you can show your supportand meet the momentby making a
gift to enable AJC's vital work. From now until December 31, your donation
will be matched, up to $100,000.
Around the world, AJC is meeting the moment by standing with Israel.
AJC Project Interchange (PI) has brought more than 6,000 influential leaders
from over 89 countries to experience Israel first-hand. In 2015, these PI
delegations included Latino journalists, African business leaders, EU officials,
and Rhodes Scholars. More than 90% of PI alumni have taken Israel-related
action upon returning home, and say their experience enhanced their
understanding of Israel.
In 2015, AJC was a driving force behind a decision by Congress to direct the
State Department to monitor and publish information on Palestinian Authority
incitement against Jews and Israel.
AJC helped secure the passage of legislation in Illinois, New York,
Pennsylvania, and several other states countering the anti-Israel boycott,
divestment, and sanctions (BDS) movement.

Cuomo and AJC Correspondence On BDS

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From:

David Harris, AJC CEO

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AJC Global Forum

Monday, June 6, at 10:15 AM ET

David Harris, AJC Executive Director

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2015 was a wake-up call.

We can't afford not to.

It's not too late to meet the moment with us.

With heartfelt thanks,

David Harris, AJC CEO

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TESTIMONY TO THE PLATFORM DRAFTING COMMITTEE

AJC 2016 Platform Committee Statement

internationally imposed solution. Similarly, we reject proposed efforts by any individual

AJC 2016 Platform Committee Statement

AJC 2016 Platform Committee Statement

minorities in ISIS-controlled territory, and are committed to ensuring an appropriately robust

AJC 2016 Platform Committee Statement

AJC 2016 Platform Committee Statement

AJC 2016 Platform Committee Statement

TESTIMONY TO THE PLATFORM DRAFTING COMMITTEE

AJC 2016 Platform Committee Statement

internationally imposed solution. Similarly, we reject proposed efforts by any individual

AJC 2016 Platform Committee Statement

AJC 2016 Platform Committee Statement

minorities in ISIS-controlled territory, and are committed to ensuring an appropriately robust

AJC 2016 Platform Committee Statement

AJC 2016 Platform Committee Statement

AJC 2016 Platform Committee Statement

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Celebrating 50 Years as a Region!

GOVERNORS AGAINST BDS

Michael Schmidt, AJC NY

Global Terrorism, Local Advocacy: On Tuesday morning, March 22, we

Combating BDS: Despite Israels many technological, medical and cultural

Remove yourself from this mailing.

Michael Schmidt, AJC NY

United Against Anti-Semitism initiative, AJC established this campaign to

Remove yourself from this mailing.

Michael Schmidt, AJC NY

please contact Assistant Director Eric Post at poste@ajc.org.

Remove yourself from this mailing.

The Jewish Future

Or the astonishing success of the Soviet Jewry movement at a time when

So what is even remotely foreseeable from today's vantage point?

Michael Schmidt, AJC NY

Remove yourself from this mailing.

Sent from my BlackBerry 10 smartphone on the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network.

Sent from my BlackBerry 10 smartphone on the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network.

For Immediate Release: 6/5/2016

GOVERNOR ANDREW M. CUOMO

GOVERNOR CUOMO SIGNS FIRST-IN-THE-NATION EXECUTIVE ORDER

Additional news available at www.governor.ny.gov

From: Alex Bronzo [mailto:bronzoa@ajc.org]

GloFo for signature

From: Daniel Elbaum, AJC Managing Director, Regional Offices

From: Alex Bronzo [mailto:bronzoa@ajc.org]

Associate Director, AJC NY

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Daniel Elbaum, AJC Managing Director, Regional Offices

Remove yourself from this mailing.