NJDC: Giuliani Was Right to Reject Tainted Relief Funds
Listed in: Other Domestic Policy, NJDC News, Press Releases
Washington, DC: The National Jewish Democratic Council (NJDC) today applauded New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani for his move last week to return a $10 million donation for relief efforts from Saudi investor Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal. The Mayor rejected the contribution after learning that the Prince had issued a statement in New York citing America's position regarding the Palestinian-Israeli conflict as one of the factors causing such an attack.
"We've criticized Mayor Giuliani in the past for certain statements and certain positions, but the Mayor's actions in this matter are pitch-perfect," said NJDC Executive Director Ira N. Forman. "Some critics of the Mayor's action have cited 'free speech' concerns, but the freedom to speak has nothing to do with it - the Prince is free to say whatever he likes, but there is no obligation on the part of our elected officials to dignify such offensive rhetoric. The Prince's money was tainted from the moment that he wrongly linked this horrific crime with America's strong support for Israel, and Mayor Giuliani did the right thing by rejecting it as soon as he learned of the Prince's unacceptable remarks.
"The nation has watched with deep respect and admiration as the Mayor has demonstrated remarkable leadership since the tragic events of September 11th, and I'm sure that Mayor Giuliani's most recent actions similarly enjoy the support of an overwhelming majority of Americans."
