As the number of Holocaust survivors shrinks, much of the restitution for the horrors they suffered remains unpaid. In the new summer issue of B’nai B’rith Magazine, writer Uriel Heilman details the uphill battle they face in receiving what they’re owed.
While Poland, without any substantial legislation requiring restitution, seems to be the worst offender, it is far from alone. Lithuania and other Eastern European nations have had trouble in the past. While many countries have created new departments and positions to deal with these problems, much work remains to be done.
B’nai B’rith Executive Vice President Daniel S. Mariaschin dedicates his column to restitution as well. Mariaschin outlines the role of B’nai B’rith, with significant involvement in the Claims Conference and World Jewish Restitution Organization, in fighting for survivors’ compensation and in fulfilling our “solemn obligation” to ensure that justice is achieved.
In August, B’nai B’rith will hold its Policy Forum in Panama City, Panama. With that in mind, B’nai B’rith International President Allan J. Jacobs explains opportunities and challenges facing in Latin America.
In 2003, American soldiers in Iraq searching for weapons of mass destruction found thousands of Jewish documents and artifacts. Now known as the Iraqi Jewish Archive, these pieces of Jewish history were displayed in New York and Washington, but Iraq wants them back. Writer Barbara Trainin Blank traces their tortuous history and the controversy over their ownership
Over the last few decades, Israel has become a formidable competitor in the wine world. Hillel Kuttler looks at the Judean Hills where over a third of the country’s vineyards are located. Situated in central Israel, the area is creating some very popular red varieties.
In the “About Seniors” section, B’nai B’rith Director of Aging Policy Rachel Goldberg discusses the importance of having a will and an advance directive. Through her experiences with her parents and children, Goldberg advocates for these documents as a necessary service for your loved ones.