Role reversal

Editorial

The Ford Foundation's stunning policy reversal is proof positive of the power of democracy and the power of the press.

Reacting to pressure generated by Edwin Black's recent investigative series for Jewish Telegraphic Agency, and from 20 members of Congress, the foundation has agreed to establish controls to prevent funding recipients that espouse anti-Israel bias, anti-Semitism and other bigotry.

In a five-page, single-spaced letter to U.S. Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-N.Y.), who had circulated a petition to fellow congressmen demanding that Ford stop funding anti-Israel groups, Ford Foundation President Susan Berresford pledged to end support for groups that "promote or condone bigotry."

Incredibly, as a safeguard against future misuse of funding, foundation officers and trustees also agreed to require each recipient to sign a letter ensuring foundation funding - as well as funding from any other source - will not be used to promote terrorism or violence against any group.

This policy turnaround affirms that the democratic ideals of our founding fathers - including freedom of the press and equal rights and freedoms for all - are alive and well. One enterprising journalist, a gutsy press organization and a small group of congressional leaders exerted enough pressure to force a $9 billion foundation to change its policy - for the better.

The result not only protects the freedoms of the Jewish people and the sovereign state of Israel, but also weakens those who preach hatred and plot violence within and beyond our borders.

Renewed resolve

A new front in the war against terror has opened up - precipitated by the bombing of two synagogues in Istanbul, Turkey, allegedly by individuals connected to Al-Qaida.

In response, we have to make crucial choices.

The Turkish Jewish community could choose to withdraw, ending more than 500 years of good relations with its nation's leaders and people. The Turkish government could choose to sever its alliance with Israel. The U.S. government could choose to become fearful that we cannot win the war.

We need to remember that our enemies are waging war not only against the West, against Israel and against the Jews, but against moderate Muslims and all others who do not share their radical ideology.

Those allied against terror must choose to close ranks, repair our cities, heal our wounds - and face the common foe with renewed energy and resolve.

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